While the original Ford Cortina is probably one of the most iconic Ford vehicles, the production of these vehicles eventually had to stop. Another flagship model was introduced in the Ford Mondeo and it has since been one of the most reliable models. However, many people are wondering about the Ford Mondeo MK4 common problems.

The vehicle has become iconic due to very few actual problems being reported when we compare the number of vehicles sold with possible issues. However, many people leave the vehicle stationary for a prolonged period and the electrics have been known to have a few potential issues when the vehicle is dormant for a few months.

While this is one of the harder problems to diagnose, there are a couple of other smaller issues that could be niggling with your Ford Mondeo. We have done some investigating to identify some of these possible issues and make life a little bit easier for many owners. We will look at the most common issues with a few possible solutions.

Ford Mondeo MK4 Common Problems

While almost any vehicle has a couple of issues, the Ford Mondeo is known to be reliable. While it does have a few minor issues, these are certainly not as harsh as some problems found on other vehicles. The following issues could be frustrating to deal with and you should keep a watchful eye out when owning an iconic Ford Mondeo.

1.      Electronic Failures

Problem: The electric problems with the Ford Mondeo is not paramount. However, many of these older models might have some issues related to electronics. If the vehicle has been standing for a significant time, you could find that the electric windows refuse to work and there could be possible other faults that will hamper your vehicle.

The windows are the easiest way to dissect the issue and find out if you have one. Having trouble starting the vehicle could be another thing to keep in mind, but this could be a result of other failures. Electric issues could hamper power slightly and might signal a battery change is needed.

Solution: It is natural for batteries to discharge after a while and constantly driving your vehicle will ensure that the battery is working as it should. If buying a used model, you should have a conversation with the seller. If you have an older model at home, consider replacing the battery to see if it could help the problem.

2.      Air Conditioning Failure

Problem: Aside from electronic issues, one of the most prominent failures in the Ford Mondeo is the air conditioning unit. It is widely known that the car suffers from a subpar design in terms of this component. The air conditioner is built with numerous components and all of these could be the reason for the air con failing.

If you buy a Ford Mondeo, especially the used models, you should sit on either side of the vehicle and test the air conditioning. You should turn it to the lowest setting to ensure that it is in optimal working range and functional for use. Having a conversation with the seller will also educate you on the potential issues.

Solution: A failing AC is one of the most frustrating parts that you could deal with. Once you figure out what is wrong, you can replace and fix the components at home. However, Ford is aware of this issue and often helps users when they return the vehicle to the dealership. Fortunately, the impact of this issue tends to be minor.

3.      Clutch/ Flywheel

Problem: Like the Ford Ranger, the manual Ford Mondeo comes with a Dual Mass Flywheel, which serves as a clutch inside a clutch. It often suffers from the same issues as the Ford Ranger and could be overused and often get damaged. Replacing the part is very expensive, but will occur when driving a certain way.

Most common reports of this issue are found when constantly driving at high speeds and putting plenty of pressure on the flywheel. Since the clutch is a component with a limited lifespan, you will find it naturally deteriorates as well. Most common reports of this issue often happen at 120,000-miles or more on the clock.

Solution: Unfortunately, this is one of the parts you will need assistance with. You should probably book a consultation with your mechanic and have them take a look. It is one of the most expensive parts of the car that you will need to replace. We would also recommend not “riding the clutch” or driving at excessive speeds if you don’t need to.

4.      Power Steering

Problem: When it comes to modern vehicles, power steering is one of the most important components of your vehicle. With power steering, the vehicle is much easier to turn and will ensure that you can control the car. One of the known issues of the older models (1996 – 1999) is the power steering problems.

You will notice the problem with a juddering feeling or even a knocking noise when turning around corners. You might even have some abnormal noises that could be concerning. A broken return line is often the main cause of the problem and it often leads to these issues. It could also be hazardous to drive your car.

Solution: Fortunately, this is another one of the problems that you can solve at home. You will need to replace the return line of the vehicle and it should eliminate the noise and the problems. However, you should consult your mechanic to pinpoint the exact issue that is holding your car back when driving.

5.      Fuel Injector

Problem: If you have read many of the Ford articles on the site, you will often notice a recurring theme. Ford struggles with fuel injector issues with many of its models. The fuel injector issue is something that has led to a recall of many Ford vehicles and could potentially leave you with a major problem in your Ford Mondeo.

You should walk around the car and check if you have any scents of fuel or diesel. If you constantly get this smell, you might have an issue with the fuel injector and this might potentially be leaking. It is something that could leak into the engine. With enough time and if ignored, it could even flood the engine.

Solution: The fuel injector is something you can replace at home. However, the issues should have been resolved in a worldwide recall. If you don’t want to fix the problem or constantly deal with it, you should visit your dealership. The dealership should take care of the problem and ensure that your vehicle is in optimal condition.

6.      Central Locking With Remote Control

Problem: In the modern era, we all love central locking. Instead of walking around the car, you simply press a button and all the doors are locked. Some vehicles are even more advanced and will lock when you leave the vehicle closed for a set time. However, the Ford Mondeo might have an issue with remote central locking.

A known problem seems to be the key fob, which might have a defective element. Fortunately, this is not related directly to the vehicle, but it will have an impact. You might also notice that your car does not lock. Fortunately, many of the key fob issues are simply related to new batteries being needed in the component.

Solution: The first thing you should do is check the batteries and you might need new batteries in the key fob. This should be a quick replacement. However, if the problem is related to the CPU, your key fob might need to be reprogrammed. Unfortunately, this can only be done by the manufacturer or a reputable Ford mechanic.

FAQ

Does The Ford Mondeo Have Transmission Problems?

Generally considered a reliable car, the Ford Mondeo is not explicitly known for having transmission problems. There might be an occasional issue with the dual-mass flywheel in some of the manual models, but nothing too serious. Problems with the automatic can often vary, but these are quickly fixed by a reputable mechanic.

How Long Does The Ford Mondeo Clutch Last?

Depending on the model, the clutch on some of these models will depend on how much care you take of them. Your driving style can also affect the clutch, but it can last up to 120,000-miles in many cases. We recommend that you avoid “riding the clutch”. You should also limit high-speed driving and consider sticking to the speed limit.