The Ford Mondeo has long been known for its comfort, style, and driving performance, making it a popular choice in the mid-size sedan market. The 2015-2018 Ford Mondeo, the sixth generation of the model, brought a fresh redesign with a more premium feel, sharper handling, and a host of advanced technology features. However, despite these upgrades, like any vehicle, it comes with its own set of common problems that prospective buyers should be aware of. In this article, we will explore these issues in detail, highlight what to look for when buying a used Mondeo, discuss ownership costs, and provide some alternative models if you're considering other options.
Common Problems of the Ford Mondeo Sedan (2015-2018)
1. Electrical System Issues
Ford Mondeo models from 2015 to 2018 are equipped with a variety of advanced electrical systems and technologies, but this complexity can sometimes lead to electrical faults. Although these issues are not overwhelmingly common, they are among the most frequently reported.
- Common Electrical Issues:
- Battery Drain: Some owners have reported excessive battery drain, even when the vehicle is not in use for extended periods. This can sometimes be linked to electrical components, such as the infotainment system or sensors, drawing power unnecessarily.
- Infotainment System Problems: The SYNC 2 and SYNC 3 infotainment systems, while popular for their features and user-friendly design, have been prone to software glitches, unresponsiveness, and occasionally complete system failures. This can be particularly frustrating given the reliance on this system for navigation, media, and phone connectivity.
- Faulty Sensors: The Mondeo comes equipped with various sensors for parking assistance, lane-keeping, and collision avoidance. These sensors can sometimes malfunction, causing false alarms or failure of safety features.
- What to Look For:
- Test the electronics: Check that the infotainment system responds quickly and correctly. Test Bluetooth, radio, navigation, and other features.
- Monitor the battery: If the car has been sitting unused for a while, check the battery condition. If the battery drains faster than expected, this may indicate an underlying electrical issue.
- Check sensor functionality: Test the sensors by engaging the parking sensors and testing the lane assist or adaptive cruise control features. Any failure to function properly might point to faulty sensors.
2. Powertrain & Transmission Problems
The Ford Mondeo is available with various engine options, including both diesel and petrol, as well as automatic and manual transmissions. While the powertrain is generally reliable, some owners have reported issues, particularly with the automatic transmission.
- Common Transmission Issues:
- DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) Concerns: Some Mondeo models, especially those with the 2.0 TDCi engine, are equipped with a dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). While DCTs generally offer smooth gear changes and improved fuel economy, they can sometimes develop issues such as jerky gear shifts, hesitation, or "clutch shudder," especially when starting from a stop. This can be a result of worn clutches, low transmission fluid levels, or software issues that control the transmission.
- Manual Transmission Wear: For manual transmission models, issues are less common but can occur if the clutch has not been properly maintained. Drivers may experience difficulty engaging gears or the clutch slipping, which could be a sign of excessive wear.
- What to Look For:
- Test the transmission: For DCT models, pay attention to how smoothly the car shifts between gears. If you feel hesitation or experience jerking movements, it could indicate issues with the dual-clutch system.
- Clutch and gearbox performance: For manual versions, ensure that the clutch engages smoothly and there is no resistance when shifting gears. Any difficulty in engaging gears or abnormal clutch pedal behavior should be addressed.
- Check for transmission fluid leaks: Inspect under the car for any signs of fluid leaks, which may indicate a problem with the transmission seals or fluid lines.
3. Suspension & Steering Problems
While the Ford Mondeo is known for its smooth, comfortable ride, some owners have reported issues with the suspension system, particularly related to the steering.
- Common Suspension Issues:
- Worn Bushings: Over time, the suspension bushings (especially the front lower control arm bushings) can wear out, leading to clunking noises or reduced handling precision. This may be particularly noticeable when turning or driving over uneven surfaces.
- Power Steering Failures: A number of Mondeo owners have reported problems with the electric power steering system, such as a heavy steering wheel, a lack of steering assistance, or intermittent failures. These issues are often linked to the power steering motor or faulty wiring.
- What to Look For:
- Test ride for comfort: Pay attention to how the car feels during a test drive. Any noise or harshness from the suspension could be a sign of worn components.
- Listen for strange noises: During the test drive, listen for any clunking or knocking sounds when steering or when driving over bumps, which could indicate worn bushings or suspension components.
- Check steering performance: While driving, check for any signs of uneven or stiff steering. If the steering feels heavy or unresponsive, have the power steering system checked.
4. Diesel Engine & DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Problems
Many Mondeo models from 2015 to 2018 were equipped with diesel engines, particularly the 2.0 TDCi variant. Diesel engines are known for their fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions, but they can develop issues, especially related to the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).
- Common DPF Problems:
- Clogging: The DPF is designed to capture and store particulate matter (soot) from the exhaust gases. However, it can become clogged if the car is mainly used for short trips or urban driving. A blocked DPF can cause reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and the illumination of warning lights on the dashboard.
- Regeneration Issues: The DPF requires periodic "regeneration" to burn off the accumulated soot. If the vehicle isn’t driven long enough to reach the required temperatures for regeneration, it can lead to clogging. Some Mondeo owners have experienced issues with the regeneration process, leading to expensive repairs.
- What to Look For:
- Monitor the DPF warning light: If the DPF light appears on the dashboard, this may indicate that the filter is clogged. If you’re driving a diesel model, ask about the vehicle’s driving habits and whether it has had any issues with DPF regeneration.
- Long-distance test drive: Take the car on a longer drive to ensure that it has the chance to fully regenerate the DPF. If the vehicle struggles to reach highway speeds, this might be an indication of a clogged filter.
- Check for engine performance issues: A lack of power, especially during acceleration, can be a sign of a blocked DPF or a related engine issue.
5. Brake Problems
The Ford Mondeo is generally known for its strong braking performance, but certain models may experience wear on brake components at higher mileages.
Common Brake Problems:
- Warped Brake Discs: On higher-mileage Mondeos, particularly those driven in stop-and-go traffic, brake discs can warp over time, causing vibrations during braking or reduced braking effectiveness.
- Worn Brake Pads: As with any car, the brake pads on the Mondeo will eventually wear out, particularly if they have not been replaced on time. Worn brake pads can lead to decreased stopping power and noisy braking.
What to Look For:
- Test braking performance: During the test drive, apply the brakes at different speeds and check for any vibrations, squealing, or unresponsiveness. If the brake pedal feels soft or pulsates, this could be a sign of warped discs.
- Check brake pads: If the car has high mileage, inspect the brake pads for wear. If the pads are thin, expect to replace them soon after purchase.
What to Look for When Buying a Ford Mondeo Sedan (2015-2018)
When purchasing a used Ford Mondeo from 2015-2018, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you’re getting a reliable car.
- Service History: Check that the car has a complete service history, including any recalls, major repairs, and maintenance items like timing belt replacement (for diesel models) or DPF issues. This can help avoid expensive repairs down the line.
- Mileage: Although the Mondeo is designed to last for many miles, be cautious when buying higher-mileage examples, particularly diesel versions. Ensure that the car has been driven regularly on longer trips to avoid DPF issues.
- Recalls: Verify whether the car has been subject to any manufacturer recalls and ensure those have been addressed.
- Inspection: Have a professional mechanic inspect the vehicle, especially if you're buying a higher-mileage or older model. They can check for issues like worn suspension components, brake wear, or signs of oil leaks.
How Expensive is It to Own a Ford Mondeo Sedan (2015-2018)?
The Ford Mondeo is relatively affordable to own for a mid-size sedan, though some issues—such as transmission or DPF repairs—can add up.
- Fuel Economy: Depending on the engine choice, the Mondeo offers good fuel efficiency. Diesel variants like the 2.0 TDCi provide excellent mileage, often reaching around 50-60 mpg on the highway.
- Insurance: The Mondeo is placed in a reasonable insurance group, making it more affordable to insure than some other mid-size sedans, though premiums may vary depending on your location and driving history.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and brake servicing, is generally inexpensive. However, more significant repairs—especially those related to the transmission or DPF—can be costly.
- Depreciation: Like many large sedans, the Mondeo experiences significant depreciation, which could mean a better deal on the second-hand market.
Better Alternatives to the Ford Mondeo Sedan (2015-2018)
If you're considering other mid-size sedans that might offer better reliability or value for money, here are a few alternatives:
- Volkswagen Passat (2015-2018): Offers a more premium feel with a better overall build quality and fewer electrical issues.
- Skoda Superb (2015-2018): Spacious, reliable, and offers great value for money.
- Mazda 6 (2015-2018): Known for its stylish design and excellent driving dynamics, it’s also highly reliable.
- Toyota Avensis (2015-2018): Reliable, well-built, and has fewer common issues than the Mondeo, especially in terms of powertrain problems.
- Honda Accord (2015-2018): A more refined, long-lasting alternative with excellent reliability and performance.
Conclusion
The Ford Mondeo Sedan (2015-2018) is a solid, comfortable car with impressive performance and a good list of standard features. However, buyers should be aware of the potential for electrical problems, transmission issues (especially with the DCT), and DPF concerns with diesel models. By paying attention to these common issues, maintaining the car well, and ensuring a proper inspection before purchase, the Mondeo can provide many years of reliable service.
For those who prioritize reliability and lower maintenance costs, alternatives like the Volkswagen Passat or Mazda 6 might be more appealing options. Ultimately, the Mondeo remains an attractive choice for buyers looking for a stylish, well-equipped sedan, but it’s essential to consider the potential long-term costs.