2017 FORD KA1.2L PETROL

The 2017 Ford Ka’s most recent MOT, conducted just ten months ago on 3 September 2025 at 52,862 miles, confirms it remains roadworthy but with persistent minor issues that suggest inconsistent maintenance. The current pass was conditional on near-side and off-side front tyres being worn close to the legal limit and exhibiting edge wear with perishing—faults that recurred in the same categories just over a year earlier. While no major structural or safety-critical failures have been recorded since 2022, the repeated tyre warnings imply basic upkeep has been neglected, particularly in rotation and alignment. The absence of advisories or failings in braking, suspension, or emissions since 2024 indicates these systems have not deteriorated catastrophically, but the corrosion noted on front brake discs in 2022 warrants closer inspection now, especially given the vehicle’s age and low mileage. The recorded mileage of 52,862 miles over nine years suggests the car has seen light use, averaging just over 5,800 miles annually—a pattern that could mean prolonged periods of inactivity. The largest mileage jump occurred between the 2022 and 2023 tests, where the odometer rose by 8,441 miles in a year, yet no defects were logged. This suggests either a brief period of heavier use or that the vehicle was driven primarily on shorter trips, which can accelerate wear in components like suspension bushes and brake pads. The gap between tests is consistent at one year, with no late or overdue MOTs, though the 2022 failure on headlamp aim and bracket integrity hints at possible deferred maintenance during that period. A buyer should prioritise an immediate visual and functional inspection of the front tyres, confirming they remain above the legal 1.6mm tread depth and free from uneven wear or perishing. The front brake discs, last noted as corroded in 2022, should be checked for uneven wear, grooving, or structural compromise—particularly the off-side unit, which may require resurfacing or replacement. The headlamp brackets, one of which was damaged in 2022, should be examined for stability and proper alignment, as any misalignment could affect visibility. Suspension bushes, especially at the front, should be assessed for cracking or excessive play, given the car’s age and the lack of advisories in recent tests. Finally, the underbody should be scrutinised for signs of corrosion around wheel arches, sills, and the exhaust system, as these areas are critical for structural integrity.