ELECTRICS

Gadgets galore - some ST250 buyers demand a certain specification, and it’s rare to find a second-hand example with all the right goodies.

Sat nav is most desirable on early cars, although it was standard on late-model ST-2s and ST-3s. A premium sound system and reversing camera were optional on top, and seem highly sought-after. Cruise control is a surprisingly rare extra, standard only on the facelift ST-3.

The Driver Assistance Pack (with Active City Stop, Lane Departure Warning, Auto High Beam etc) and BLIS (Blind Spot Information System, which includes Cross Traffic Alert) aren’t especially popular, and don’t particularly demand a premium on the used market. Likewise, the ST-2’s City Pack, of Powerfold door mirrors and rear parking sensors.

Xenon headlights were a feature of the ST-3, and you’ll need to check the levelling system works properly when you turn on the ignition: the motor assembly under the offside front wheelarch is prone to snapping, costing hundreds to fix – although a DIY repair is possible. Many owners report concerns over headlamps filling with condensation, while DRLs (daytime running lights) sometimes flicker or stop working altogether.

The Style Pack/ST-3 facelift’s illuminated scuff plates are renowned for packing up – it’s no deal-breaker unless they blow door loom fuses too – and you’ll need to ensure all the electrical gizmos are in order. Auxiliary gauges have been known to fluctuate, and the dualzone climate control of ST-2s and ST-3s can be temperamental. SYNC issues also arise, although a software update generally cures all ills.

Most importantly, make sure the dashboard isn’t throwing up a variety of warning lights: service lamps and such like may accompany parasitic battery drains, and problems with the power start button; many are linked to engine wiring loom faults, as detailed in our engine section earlier.