2013 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · AF63 UBX

The most recent MOT, conducted on 11 June 2026, was passed but flagged advisories on all four tyres being worn close to the legal limit and on the edges of the tread. Over the preceding seven years the vehicle has consistently passed its MOT, with only occasional advisories relating to tyre wear, a slightly worn rear shock‑absorber bush in 2024, light oil misting from the front shock and a hint of play in the front steering rack joint in 2023, and a non‑functional nearside front fog light in 2020. The pattern shows a generally stable maintenance record, with no outright failures, but a gradual accumulation of wear items that are now converging on the point where replacement will be required. At 63 018 miles the 2013 Ford Ka averages just under 5 000 miles per year, well below the typical UK usage of 8‑10 000 miles annually. Such low kilometre figures often indicate periods of infrequent use or prolonged storage, which can be as consequential as high mileage. Age‑related deterioration can affect rubber components, seals and corrosion‑prone areas even when the odometer reads modest figures. The modest mileage does, however, mean that major drivetrain wear such as timing chain stretch, clutch wear or significant bearing degradation is less likely, provided the car has been kept reasonably dry and serviced at appropriate intervals. Prospective buyers should treat the tyre situation as the most immediate concern. Verify the tread depth on all four wheels; any measurement below 1.6 mm or uneven wear across the tread face will necessitate replacement, and sidewall cracking or perishing from age should also be inspected, especially given the vehicle’s age. During a test drive listen for any clunk, thump or excessive bounce that could indicate deteriorating shock‑absorber bushes or leaking dampers, and feel for looseness or wandering in the steering that would confirm the slight play noted in the rack joint. Examine the rear shock‑absorber bush for excessive play and check the front shocks for oil seepage, as these can lead to reduced ride quality and premature tyre wear. In addition to the tyres and suspension, conduct a thorough visual and tactile inspection of the braking system, looking for surface rust on the discs, uneven pad wear or any pulsation when applying the brakes. Test the nearside front fog light and all other exterior lighting for full operation. Given the vehicle’s age and likely periods of inactivity, assess the 12‑volt battery’s cranking power, check for any fluid leaks around the engine bay, and confirm that coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed within the recommended calendar intervals. Finally, inspect the under‑carriage for rust, especially around wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and verify that the service book contains regular oil changes and any required timing belt or chain service, as these are critical to long‑term reliability despite the low recorded mileage.