Used Ford Mondeo Hatchback 2014-2022 reliability

There’s not a great deal to be wary of with regard to the fifth-generation Ford Mondeo. However, as with all cars of its ilk, it’s a good idea to have a thorough check through the entirety of the interior for scuffs, scrapes, and other damage that may have been brought about by the rigours of family life.

Keep in mind, too, that some of the materials used in the Mondeo are lower-quality than those in more premium rivals, so might be more easily marked.

The Mondeo’s quite a big car, so check carefully around the exterior for scuffs and scrapes. Also, keep a keen eye open for any poorly repaired accident damage – slight mismatches in colour and wonky gaps between the panels are clues.

Headlights may switch off without warning

Some early examples made up until 22 December 2015 and were fitted with optional adaptive LED headlights might suffer from a software glitch that can switch the headlights off. Any Ford dealer will be able to upload the updated software to prevent any future problems, free of charge.

Clutch pressure plate fracture

This recall relates to vehicles fitted with either the 1.0 or 1.5-litre petrol engine and were built between 30 June 2016 and 30 May 2018, where the clutch pressure plate may fracture. You may notice a burning smell and the vehicle slowing down, accompanied by a loud thud or bang. Contact your local Ford dealer to find out if your car is affected.

Oil sump may crack

There is a potential problem with some Mondeos manufactured between 19 September 2014 and 28 September 2015 where the engine oil sump at the bottom of the engine may crack in extreme circumstances if the engine overheats. Revised software is available for affected vehicles that are affected that is more able to detect the engine overheating sooner and take action to prevent this.

Air-conditioning

The clutch that engages and disengages the air-con compressor from the engine (basically, switches your air-con on and off) could fail on Mondeos assembled between 1 September 2014 and 20 April 2018. Find out from your Ford dealer if your car is affected because it'll need to have a new clutch fitted if it is.

Battery

A problem with the 12v battery fitted to some examples made from the start of production until 11 February 2019 could lead to a fire in extreme circumstances. Check with your local Ford dealer if your car is affected since it'll need to have a new fused wiring loom fitted to prevent future issues.

What the Ford Mondeo lacks in kerbside appeal, it makes up for in reliability.

In our 2023 What Car? reliability survey, which was the last one it appeared in, it was ranked the most reliable used executive car, with a reliability rating of 98.3%. The survey, which covers cars between six and 20 years old found that just 3% of respondents said their car had gone wrong in the previous 24 months.

Ford as a brand came in 14th place out of 31 manufacturers in our table of the most reliable used car brands. Its overall score of 91.5% was a respectable one.

Used Ford Mondeo reliability: the owners' view

As part of our annual Reliability Survey, What Car? readers shared a mix of experiences regarding the reliability and dealer service of the Ford Mondeo.

While many owners commended the Mondeo for its overall dependability, some reported recurring faults as the car aged. Common issues included problems with suspension components and electrical faults, such as non-functioning warning lights and infotainment glitches. Diesel models were noted for faults with their DPF (diesel particulate filter) systems, which some owners found costly to repair.

Older cars were often serviced and repaired at independent dealers. However, feedback on Ford’s dealer network was equally mixed. Positive comments highlighted quick diagnostic services and reasonable repair costs for warranty-covered issues.

However, some readers experienced frustration with recurring visits to address unresolved faults, as well as delays in parts availability. A few also cited inconsistent communication from service staff, which exacerbated dissatisfaction during repairs.

Overall, while the Mondeo earned praise for reliability, dealer support and repair costs could vary significantly.