1997 Ford Mondeo Ghia X review from UK and Ireland

My catalyst disintegrated at 80000 miles, replacement cost over £300.

The heater fan has failed on all, but setting 4.

HT Leads seem to need replacing at regular intervals, always check these first if your mondeo starts idling badly. I have now used two sets.

Front tires wear quickly.

Suspension problems are common, I have now had all front bushes and shock absorbers replaced, and have failed at each MOT because of this.

Most of these problems however are not unreasonable in a car of 100000 miles, and the general mechanics feel sound.

Although my mondeo`s had its niggles it still feels like it would take a lot to break it entirely! Whether this is due to its weight, or the luxurious interior, I am not quite sure!

The trim quality and equipment levels are first class, with full leather which is wearing extremely well, and more gadgets than you could wish for, most of which are still working!

Fuel economy is pretty good for a 2.0 lump, especially as it spends a lot of its life in towns and short journeys. The computer is currently showing 28.5 mpg average and has not been reset for many miles.

The 2.0 engine does not feel the quickest around, but will respond fairly well if you push it, and will just purr all day on the motorway, especially with the cruise control on.

All in all, a lot of car for a little outlay, and ideal if you want a touch of luxury in something, that is also realistic to own and maintain.

I am seriously considering another mondeo, possible a V6 after this one, and as I have never considered the same car twice before, than this probably means I like it!