IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2002 Ford Ka Mk1 (PR)

From 2002 the Ka swapped its 1960s-derived Endura-E for the 1.3 Duratec 8v, a smoother overhead-cam unit with taller gearing. Body-coloured bumpers and the Collection and LuxuryKa trims had already pushed it upmarket.

What changed for 2002

  • •1.3-litre Duratec 8v (RoCam) replaces the Endura-E, improving refinement and fuel economy
  • •Body-coloured bumpers from 1999, with Collection and LuxuryKa replacing the Ka2 and Ka3 badges
  • •1.6-litre Duratec 8v in the SportKa and StreetKa, with 95PS and a widened front track
  • •Studio, Style, Style Climate and Zetec Climate trims formed the final UK line-up

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Rear spring seat and seat-belt anchorage corrosion on cars used through winter salt
  • !Corroded brake pipes and ferrules where they are clipped along the rear beam
  • !Emissions failures from a tired catalyst or lambda sensor on high-mileage 1.3s
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Structural Corrosion (Sills/Arches)

SeriousBodywork & Rust

The Ka lacks modern rust protection. Rot often starts around the fuel filler, sills, and rear suspension mounts.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£1,000
Warning Signs:

Visible rust around fuel flap, Soft/crunchy sills, MOT failure for structural integrity

What to Inspect:
  • Check the inner sills from underneath
  • Inspect the rear axle mounting area
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Power Steering Pump Leak

ModerateSteering

The PAS pump on the 1.3 engine is prone to leaking fluid, which can contaminate the alternator below it.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£300
Warning Signs:

Whining noise when turning, Heavy steering, Red fluid on driveway

What to Inspect:
  • Check the PAS fluid reservoir level
  • Look for leaks around the pump pulley
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Heater Control Valve Failure

MinorCooling System

A very common Ford issue where the valve seizes, leaving the cabin temperature stuck on hot or cold.

Est. Repair Cost: £40–£90
Warning Signs:

Cabin temperature won’t change, Heater stuck on hot in summer

What to Inspect:
  • Operate the temperature dial through its full range
  • Feel for hot and cold air from the vents as the temperature is adjusted
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2002 Ford Ka Mk1 (PR)

  • Confirm which engine is fitted: the Duratec has a black cam cover and a smoother exhaust note than the Endura-E
  • Run the heater through hot and cold; a seized heater control valve is cheap but awkward to reach
  • Check the rear axle and its mounting points from underneath rather than trusting fresh underseal
1997–20012003–2008
Check a 2002 Ford Ka Mk1 (PR) by Registration