Faults:

The clutch died at 260,000 km; it's a shame I couldn't use the new clutch for long, at least whoever bought it will enjoy it.

The turbo actuator was failing, sending the engine into "emergency mode" and turning on the glow plug light.

High Pressure Pump / Fuel Pump: Failures that can cause starting problems or power cuts, especially if the circuit runs out of fuel.

Difficulty starting when cold, with the glow plug light flashing.

Another problem I encountered, but only once in all the years I owned it, was that the air filter would become clogged, affecting fuel delivery and engine performance.

General Comments:

Being a 2006 model, the car came very well-equipped with heated seats, a sound system, power windows and mirrors, climate control, a trip computer, and remote central locking, among other features. It is missing a few things, as it could also have included front parking sensors, dual-zone climate control, a tire pressure monitoring system, and a power passenger seat.

The suspension is stiff and firm, resulting in a harsher ride compared to the standard version. Nevertheless, the ride comfort is very satisfactory. On the open road, it truly shines, tackling corners at speed with remarkable agility.

The steering is quick and precise, but the turning radius is slightly excessive. The leather-wrapped steering wheel, with its excellent grip, is a notable feature. Due to the car's rigidity, ground clearance is adequate, although care must be taken on very uneven roads.

It's a very safe car; when driving it, especially at high speeds, you feel a pleasant sense of security. It has dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, and head airbags, as well as powerful xenon headlights and five headrests, the front ones being active.

It also features high-performance brakes with four discs and ABS, EBD, and EBA.

The TDCi engine offers the same performance as any gasoline-powered Mondeo from the same year, but even the ST is sportier, and, more importantly, its fuel consumption is almost half that of its gasoline counterpart. A diesel with these characteristics is worthwhile; besides being sporty, it's economical and fuel-efficient for a large sedan.

That, combined with its reliability (I bought it used and owned it for over 12 years), requiring only routine maintenance and never giving me any trouble, made this car one of the best I've ever owned and one I've enjoyed the most.

Faults:

Quite a lot but mostly just wear and tear for the age and mileage. Rust now becoming a problem, but it is nearly 20 years old!

General Comments:

Mid 2000's Mondeo is popular and reliable if looked after.

Zetec model is mid range and has plenty of electric features and is pleasant to drive.

1.8 petrol engine has good performance, but not that economical, I'm getting 34 mpg at very best. Was going to go for diesel engines, but heard they were unreliable. This old petrol unit is at least solid if cared for properly.

Surprisingly modern and good looking for a 2006 car. If you need a cheap family run about, the Mondeo is always a fine choice.

Faults:

Wheel bearings, suspension bushes, exhaust, ABS, small oil leak.

Clutch failure was the biggest expense.

A/C not working.

Interior plastic quality leaves a lot to be desired - many broken switches/handles.

General Comments:

I have had this Mondeo a long time. It has been a fine car - very modern I thought when I first bought it. Now starting to show its age, but I still do not want to change it. No point replacing reliable and relatively cheap to run transport these days!

Good looking car this generation of Mondeo. My car is silver, very common, but has unique alloy wheels I added myself, so stands out a little. I also tinted the windows, smart looking car.

Inside is very mid 2000's Ford - tries to look futuristic and to be honest it still looks very 1990's. It's not bad, just a bit too much silver/grey plastics. The seats are very comfortable and the LX model has enough electric options. Quiet and smooth on motorways. I enjoy driving it, nice handling and smooth gearchange.

2.0 petrol engine performs nicely, but you won't get much more than 34 mpg. Pretty poor by today's standards. It is a nice, simple, easy to maintain and quiet engine however, and I much prefer it over the unreliable diesels of this generation.

Ford main dealer was very rude and unaccommodating when I took the car in for service or repair, yet still tried to sell me a new car. In later years at this age and mileage, you are far better off finding a cheaper independent garage to take care of these cars.

In short, I plan to keep this car another few years despite its age. They are as reliable as anything if you maintain them correctly. You won't get a more modern yet easy to run car these days than an old Mondeo.