SUSPENSION AND BRAKES
You may be surprised by how nicely an ST200 drives. The stock setup included lowered springs and stiffer dampers, resulting in a firm and sporty ride (reckoned to be too firm by some testers), not to mention great poise on the twisty bits.
The problem is ST200s were fitted with bespoke suspension components, including unique front suspension arms; like normal Mk2 Mondeos, they regularly destroy front wishbone bushes, resulting in wandering at speed and clonking over bumps; unlike normal Mondeos, the replacement parts are rare and expensive. The ball joints can be replaced separately, but owners tend to get the main subframe bushes from America by buying Ford Contour components.
Broken anti-roll bar drop links also cause knocking noises, as do snapped coil springs or even faulty dampers. Beware, because the springs and shock absorbers are ST200-specific, and OEM dampers are particularly difficult to source.
Likewise, banging at the back may result from fractured springs or defective drop links; saloons and hatchbacks are also susceptible to broken rear subframe bushes, which make the rear end feel soggy. Upgrading to polyurethane solves the problem. Estates have their own issues because their self-levelling rear dampers are ultra-pricey; ST220 (Mk3) versions will suffice instead.
Like all Mondeos, the ST200 is sensitive to wheel geometry settings (leading to wandering) and worn wheel bearings at high mileages; listen for rumbling, and jack up each corner of the car to wiggle the wheels and feel for excessive play.
ST200 stoppers were sub-standard from new (basic Mondeo callipers with 278mm discs), so expect them to feel poor by modern levels. Juddering from the pedal is common (typically due to warped/contaminated discs/pads), while sponginess is mainly caused by air in the system – perhaps from the fluid having overheated. Basic servicing should fix the faults, using the best pads you can afford.
Heavy juddering and pulling to one side during braking probably stem from a seized front calliper (if not an aforementioned wishbone bush). Rear callipers are particularly prone to sticking, often with the handbrake failing to function; jack up the car and spin the wheels to check.
Ensure the ABS system works properly: the warning light should glow when you turn on the ignition, and go out again after starting the engine. If it stays alight, it’s usually due to a dodgy (dirty or failed) sensor, but it could also be caused by the ABS pump or module.
Many ST200 owners have by now added upgraded front brakes, which are a bonus when buying. Mk1 Mondeo V6 callipers, ST170 discs with Mk3 callipers, or Focus ST225 callipers with redrilled discs (from five- to four-stud) are all triedand-tested solutions.