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2002 Ford Mondeo

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2002 Ford Mondeo was a popular mid-size car known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior. Engine options varied depending on the market, but some of the more common options included the 1.8L Duratec petrol engine, the 2.0L Duratec petrol engine, and the 2.0L Duratorq TDCi diesel engine. For example, the 2.0L Duratec petrol engine produces around 143 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciated the Mondeo’s practicality and handling, but common complaints often revolved around reliability issues, particularly with certain engine components and electrical systems.

Engine

1.8L Duratec Petrol

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and potentially blue smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replacing piston rings or valve stem seals may be necessary. In severe cases, an engine rebuild or replacement might be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Duratec Petrol

  • Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough running, or failure to start. The check engine light will typically illuminate with a code related to the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Solution: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Duratorq TDCi Diesel

  • Injector Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, excessive black smoke, and potential engine knocking.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty injectors. It’s often recommended to replace all injectors at the same time to ensure balanced performance.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per injector
    • Recalls: None Found
  • High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficult starting, lack of power, and potential metal shavings in the fuel system. This can also contaminate the fuel injectors.
    • Solution: Replacing the high-pressure fuel pump and thoroughly cleaning the fuel system. May also require replacing the fuel injectors and fuel filter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Manual Transmission (All Engine Options)

  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slipping, difficulty shifting gears, and a burning smell.
    • Solution: Replacing the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing. Resurfacing or replacing the flywheel is also recommended.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Automatic Transmission (Available with some engine options)

  • Slipping or Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or jerky gear changes, slipping between gears, and unusual noises from the transmission.
    • Solution: Could be caused by low transmission fluid, worn solenoids, or internal damage to the transmission. May require a fluid flush, solenoid replacement, valve body repair, or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Suspension Bushings
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced handling and stability.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings in the control arms, sway bar links, and other suspension components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per component.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Broken Coil Springs
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging ride height, uneven tire wear, and a clunking noise when driving.
    • Solution: Replacing the broken coil spring(s). It’s generally recommended to replace both springs on the same axle to ensure even handling.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per pair.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Instrument Cluster Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the instrument cluster, including gauges and lights.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Central Locking Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Central locking system malfunctioning, doors not locking or unlocking properly with the remote or key.
    • Solution: Could be caused by a faulty door lock actuator, a wiring issue, or a problem with the central locking module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust on Wheel Arches and Sills
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the wheel arches and sills of the vehicle.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the affected body panels and applying rust protection.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per panel.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Airbag Light Illumination
    • Description/Symptoms: The airbag warning light on the dashboard remains illuminated.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the fault code with a scan tool to identify the specific issue. Could be a faulty airbag sensor, a wiring problem, or a malfunctioning airbag module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Ford Mondeo has a number of common issues, ranging from engine and transmission problems to electrical and suspension faults. Engine issues, particularly with the diesel variant, can be expensive to fix. Electrical problems, while generally less costly, can be frustrating. Suspension wear is typical for a vehicle of this age. Addressing rust is important to prevent further damage. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common issues and factor in potential repair costs.

Ford, Mondeo
Ford Mondeo 2002
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