2010 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · AC57 PER

The 2010 Ford Ka most recently passed its MOT on 30 May 2025 with no defects or advisories recorded, which represents a positive clean sheet at the most recent test. However, the broader history shows a recurring pattern of mechanical and corrosion-related issues that a prospective buyer should not overlook. In 2023, the vehicle failed on multiple Major defects including an ineffective fuel cap sealing device, a serious fluid leak from the offside rear shock absorber, an offside windscreen wiper not clearing the screen effectively, and an inoperative nearside stop lamp. These were largely addressed to achieve a pass the following day, though advisories for the exhaust mounting and defective wiper persisted. Across the 2021 to 2024 period, advisories relating to exhaust corrosion, rear sub-frame corrosion, deteriorated exhaust silencer, light oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber, slight play in the nearside front suspension arm ball joint, and tyre damage or perishing on both rear tyres have been progressively noted. The trend suggests underlying deterioration of suspension, exhaust, and structural components rather than isolated wear items, and although the most recent test was clean, the accumulation of advisories indicates that several of these items will likely require attention in the near term. With 51,405 recorded miles over approximately 16 years, the Ford Ka averages around 3,213 miles per year, which is notably low for its age and class. This level of usage typically results in less wear on high-mileage consumables such as the engine, clutch, and drivetrain internals, but it also carries the well-documented drawbacks of low-use and standing-related deterioration. Long periods of inactivity tend to encourage brake disc corrosion, caliper binding or seizure due to corroded guide pins, deterioration of rubber components, and fluid degradation from age rather than mileage. The relatively sparse annual MOT test entries suggest the vehicle may have been used intermittently, making physical inspection of these standing-related concerns particularly relevant during any viewing. During a physical inspection, the buyer should pay close attention to the rear tyres, particularly given the historical advisories for cracking and perishing on 195/45 R16 rubber. Even if the most recent tyres appear serviceable, age-related sidewall perishing can be present on any vehicle that has been lightly used, and a close visual check of the sidewalls for hairline cracks, together with verification of manufacture date via the DOT stamp, is recommended. The fuel cap sealing device has been flagged twice in the MOT history as ineffective, and although this is a relatively inexpensive replacement, it should be verified as sealing correctly and clicking into the locked position, as a faulty cap will trigger an immediate failure. The suspension system requires particular attention given the offside rear shock absorber fluid leak noted in 2023 and the persistent advisory for light oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber in 2024. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear over uneven surfaces, observe for any noticeable bouncing or lack of damping control after passing over a speed bump, and check for uneven or staining on the shock absorber bodies. The nearside front suspension arm ball joint having slight play should be re-inspected by rocking the wheel with the vehicle raised to confirm whether it has worsened, as excessive play will result in an MOT failure and compromises steering precision. Given the vehicle's age, the buyer should also verify time-based servicing items that do not necessarily show up on an MOT. The 12V battery health should be checked, particularly if the vehicle has stood for long periods, as a weak or flat battery is common in lightly used cars and may indicate underlying parasitic drain or simply end-of-life replacement. Brake discs and calipers should be examined for surface corrosion and to confirm the calipers are sliding freely without binding, as corroded caliper guide pins are a frequent issue on low-mileage vehicles and lead to uneven pad wear or pulling under braking. Coolant, brake fluid, and the timing or auxiliary belt should be confirmed as replaced in line with calendar-based schedules rather than mileage alone, as fluids degrade with age and rubber belts become brittle regardless of use. The corrosion advisories for the rear sub-frame and exhaust system warrant a thorough underbody examination, ideally with the vehicle raised, to confirm that any corrosion remains cosmetic rather than structurally significant. Finally, verifying a continuous service history with stamps at appropriate intervals will help confirm whether the low recorded mileage reflects genuine light use or potential clock inconsistencies, and will provide reassurance regarding the overall mechanical condition of this sixteen-year-old Ford Ka.