Faults:

Picked this up really cheaply. Had a series of problems. Error codes from injectors and ABS sensors. Clunky and defective dual mass flywheel. Hesitation while driving (probably injectors). Worn control arms. Rusty brake rotors. Previous owner had skipped 3 last services and the car had emission error codes, had only changed oil at local "Quick lube" shop. So picked this up for less than half price compared to list price from a dealer.

Most of these problems were fixed with a proper service. New diesel filter and cleaning of DPF filter as well as fuel additives. ABS problems were poor connection due to moisture. Emission and injectors codes cleared. Only expensive problem was replacing the clutch and flywheel. Did all myself with parts for about €1200, that's it. Lesson learned: Don't skip on services on newer cars.

General Comments:

Needed a larger car to tow a large trailer. This car had a tow package and the 2.0 TDCI. Did a chip tuning with 170 hp and 400 Nm, that really woke up this engine. Felt really strong even with a 1.5 ton trailer.

Interior space was really ample and car was really comfortable to drive.

Faults:

Exhaust.

ABS.

Oil leaking from somewhere.

Air con non operative.

General Comments:

This Mondeo with a petrol engine is pretty rare, as most are the TDCi diesel models.

I got this car very cheap however, so was not too bothered about the petrol engine and lack of economy.

It's very nice to drive and performs well. 30 - 34 mpg isn't really good enough these days however, but it is a quiet and refined unit, plus it is reliable if cared for. I also do not do as much mileage as I used to (retired).

Titanium model has the lot, comfy seats and all electrics, really feels like a luxury car.

Very good looking in dark blue with alloy wheels.

Ford dealers just do not want to know you when they see you coming with a car of this age - seek out a trusted independent for service and repairs.

A bargain, but only if you get a nice looked after car at a nice price. I plan to keep mine long term, but at over 15 years old, rust might become an issue at MOT time. Thankfully my car looks to have been cleaned and garaged from new, but most won't have - there are a lot of rough cars from this generation out there on the used market, be very careful if buying a Mondeo from 2007 - 2013 generation.

Faults:

Clutch.

Driveshaft.

ABS.

Rust is becoming a real problem at MOT time. But it is over 15 years old now to be fair!

Water-pump leaked - replaced when I changed the cam-belt not too long ago.

General Comments:

On the plus side, this Mondeo is a decent looking car, reasonably economical and has plenty of power. Space and comfort is also top notch with quality materials and a large boot.

It's also good to drive, handles very well for a large heavy family car. Quite smart in dark metallic grey. Sound system is good quality for 2008, still sounds good today, I believe mine has had a radio upgrade despite being a middle of the road specification Zetec model.

On the downside, the Mondeo of this generation is getting on, it is expensive to repair when it does go wrong, and to be honest other rival cars (Vauxhall Insignia, Honda Accord, etc) offer the same for the same money. The Mondeo is good but no class leader as the earlier journalist reviews would suggest. They raved about this car when it first came out in 2007/8.

Still, it has been a decent car for a used buy at a good price, I have had mine a while now with no major problems, look after it well and it will return with comfort and economy. 2.0 TDCi does around 45 MPG or more motorway with steady cruising, typical of diesels form this time. Not fast, but plenty of torque, never struggles up-hill or anything.

I have found Ford dealers are uninterested (and expensive for repairs) in cars of this age; I suggest you find a nice independent garage to take care of service and repairs for this car. Buy a looked after car and you have one of the best cars on the market - just do not expect anything special.