1996 Ford Mondeo LX from UK and Ireland - Comments

Central locking system has a mind of its own but has not locked me in or out (yet).

Just bought this car as a second vehicle to replace an unliked Astra diesel estate. Used basically as a van being an Estate.

No problems to date.

Awaiting MoT result in April or May.

UPDATE. Car passed the MoT test (UK annual very stringent roadworthiness exam), but needed new front pipe and cat. at a cost of £130 sterling. No problems with rubber bushes. Have used Waxoyle over all rubber suspension bushes. This has smoothed out the ride somewhat (but don't use anything that will rot them!!). Getting to like this car more every day. Great roadholder - especially cornering... zoom!

Talking of rubber bushes though. Make sure the lefthandside (from inside) FRONT bush bolt has been inserted upwards! Or you will have to lift the engine to replace!!

Another useful tip. With Mondeo ZETEC engines most people put the wrong oil in them! They ideally need a 5W/30 in winter. 15W/40 is like putting porridge in a Zetec - it slows it down and prevents adequate lubrication when starting in freezing conditions.

Regular air filter attention is also needed.

DO NOT fit a bolt at the forward bush of the near side suspension arm with the head downwards unless you drill a bolt thread to fit a "R" clip. The clip stops the bolt from falling out. This is not recommended any way except for Rally Cars. These bolts have dropped down when the nut failed and the car then crashed.

Original author would refer the last author to the Haynes manual that says inserting a bolt head down is acceptable. I would add to this - as long as frequent checks are made.

UPDATE: Car still 100% although the central locking is now manual locking which I probably prefer. Have however had to replace the rear bumper after passing over (had no choice) a dead fox fully loaded! Spurious part cost just over £100 not painted.