BRAKES

Whoa there! Don’t assume all ST24s are equal - because early cars had better brakes up front. Prior to 1999 the ST24 ran 278mm ventilated discs with Escort Cosworthtype calipers, which were man enough for stopping a V6 Mondeo (well, when mated to decent aftermarket pads).

But from late 1998 Ford used the standard Mondeo 1.6 calipers with 278mm discs, which were noticeably inferior. All had 253mm solid rear discs, along with a basic ABS setup.

Unless your ST24 has had a recent brake refurbishment, after 20 years it will probably feel poor. A spongy pedal points to air in the system, which could mean a new master cylinder is required but most likely points to a leak, poor maintenance, or even a previous owner having boiled the fluid when driving enthusiastically. Bleeding the system, checking the brake lines/pipes and renewing the fluid should find the answer.

It’s very common to feel an ST24 juddering through the brake pedal, which results from contaminated or warped discs – again, often a consequence of overheating when pressing on. New discs, pads and fluid are the first step, which shouldn’t break the bank.

Pulling to one side when braking is also a frequent Mk2 Mondeo complaint, usually caused by a seized front caliper; in contrast, pulling to one side under power is more likely to be the fault of worn wishbone bushes.

Like all Mondeos, the ST24’s rear calipers have a habit of seizing in the on or off position, particularly on the handbrake mechanism. Check by jacking up the back of the car and spinning the wheels with the handbrake pulled on and off.

The standard-fit ABS system was intrusive but generally quite reliable. Ensure the warning lamp on the dashboard lights up with the ignition being turned on, and goes out after a few seconds. If not, there’s a fault: suspect a dirty or failed wheel sensor, but the pump or module could be pricier problems.

Finally, don’t be afraid of an ST24 with modified anchors. Mondeo Mk3 calipers with Focus ST170 300mm discs and 3mm spacers are a good, cheap upgrade, while Focus ST225 calipers with redrilled discs work wonders.