2009 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · 13 CBR

A persistent theme across the MOT record is front‑end wear and electrical faults: the nearside front suspension arm ball‑joint has been flagged for play on three occasions, the dust‑cover is severely deteriorated, and both front shock absorbers suffered serious fluid leaks in 2025. Those suspension concerns sit alongside a series of tyre failures – a nearside front tyre cut through the ply in early 2025 and an off‑side front tyre later deemed dangerous for exposed cords – and a repeat of dangerous front brake pad wear in 2023. The latest MOT dated 18 December 2025 recorded failures for the nearside and off‑side stop lamps, the reversing lamp and insufficient washer fluid, while still noting the ball‑joint play as an advisory, indicating that the vehicle has not yet resolved its core front‑end issues. At 76,710 mi the car averages roughly 4,500 mi per year, a mileage figure low for a 2009 model. Such modest annual accumulation suggests limited on‑road use, which can preserve engine and drivetrain life but does not arrest age‑related degradation of rubber components, bushings and seals. The MOT history shows no long gaps in testing, implying the vehicle has been kept on the road regularly; however, the low mileage combined with age means that wear on suspension bushings, shock absorber seals and tyre carcasses may be more a function of time than distance, and corrosion or fatigue can develop even with few miles logged. Prospective buyers should give the front suspension a thorough tactile inspection. With the ball‑joint already noted for play, a firm push on the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions should be free of clunking; any noticeable looseness or a knocking sound over bumps would confirm the advisory and likely require ball‑joint replacement and dust‑cover renewal. The shock absorbers should be examined for any oil seepage at the mount points and tested for rebound by applying pressure to the wheel and releasing – a spongy or uneven response would indicate internal leakage. Front tyres must be inspected for cuts, bulges or tread depth below 1.6 mm; the previous cut through the ply suggests the sidewalls may be vulnerable, so a visual check for any exposed cords or damage is essential. Electrical lighting and washer functionality also demand attention. Verify that both stop lamps illuminate brightly and simultaneously, that the reversing lamp lights when the gear selector is in reverse, and that the washer system delivers a steady spray without sputtering. Finally, the front brake pads should be measured for remaining thickness; the 2023 dangerous failure at less than 1.5 mm means they may be nearing the end of service and could require replacement. During a test drive, listen for any squeal or grinding on braking, feel for pedal firmness, and watch for any dashboard warnings that could indicate lingering electrical faults. Addressing these specific items will give a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it to a reliable state.