FORD KA1998 · 1.3L PETROL

The most recent MOT failure for this 1998 Ford Ka occurred on 2013-12-07, when the vehicle had 42,360 miles. It failed due to multiple corrosion issues on seat belt anchorages (nearside and offside front and rear) and ineffective windscreen wipers. These defects suggest prolonged exposure to moisture or poor maintenance, which can compromise occupant safety in a collision. The 2012-12-01 failure also highlighted corrosion on seat belt anchorages and tyre tread below legal limits, indicating recurring issues with structural integrity and safety-critical components. The pattern of failures shows a consistent risk of corrosion affecting seat belt anchorages, which are critical for restraint systems. Brake hose deterioration was noted in 2011, and a defective spare tyre was recorded in the same year. While some issues like oil leaks and minor corrosion were addressed in earlier tests, the 2013 failure reveals that corrosion remained unresolved. There is no evidence of improvement in subsequent MOTs, but no data exists beyond 2013 to confirm whether the condition worsened or stabilized. The vehicle’s low mileage of 42,360 miles over 28 years equates to roughly 1,513 miles per year. This suggests infrequent use or long periods of inactivity, which can accelerate corrosion and degrade rubber components like tyres and brake hoses.