Mondeo Mk4 2.5T - viewing tips and specialist near Ipswich?

[adbett]

Viewing a Mk4 Mondeo 2.5T estate in a couple of days with Titanium X trim. New to this car so researching heavily, read about PCV and boost valve. Can anyone help with other tips to look out for when viewing and test drive? Couple of details I'm also trying to find out now:

- Car has adaptive suspension (comfort / normal / sport) and adaptive headlights, how can you test these?
- Is there a VIN check online where I can look up the full spec as new?

- And any specialists near Ipswich who might be able to inspect the car for me?

thanks!

[zedx19]

You'd be better off researching Focus ST problems as it's the same engine so suffers the same flaws. The Mondeo aspect will be solid, generally well made and reliable, it's the Volvo aspect that is likely to be more of a concern. Having said that, if the engine has been cared for, allowed to warm and cool correctly, not had a badman ebay special remap put on, it's generally reliable if not a tad thirsty. Google cracked liners if you want to be put off, block mod can prevent it though if done correctly. Clutch is weak, put in a high gear and floor it, if it slips it'll need replacing at some point, 750 ish for a RS Clutch fitted which you'll need if you plan on tuning the engine.

Boost solenoid is cheap and easy to replace, I paid 40 quid for the part, another 20 quid to get it fitted. Cambelt needs doing at 10 years, recommended less though and advisable to have block mod at the same time. Cost wise around 450 for cambelt and waterpump, 600 for cambelt, waterpump and block mod at a place in Notts I used. I've had my ST 2 years and bar the boost solenoid, had no other problems.

[adbett]

Hadn't come across cracked liners yet...will start searching. I know it's had the timing belt done in the last 1-2 years but probably not a block modification. Not too fussed about economy - will be better than my current M3 and for my budget I have to get a petrol car to meet the ULEV in London