2010 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · AO10 AWF

Chronic corrosion across the suspension system and a history of recurring structural advisories define this vehicle's mechanical record. While it passed its most recent test on 18 August 2026, the record shows a persistent pattern of deterioration, including a dangerous failure in August 2025 due to an offside front lower suspension arm ball joint likely to become detached. This trend of suspension wear is compounded by ongoing corrosion issues affecting the Macpherson struts and, most recently, the rear axle beam. The recorded mileage of 123,676 miles is consistent with the vehicle's age, averaging approximately 7,730 miles per year. This level of usage indicates a steady accumulation of wear on high-friction consumables and drivetrain components. Given the age and mileage, the mechanical stress on the suspension linkages and chassis is evident in the MOT history, where components like bump stops and strut mountings have repeatedly been flagged as broken, detached, or corroded. Particular attention must be paid to the rear suspension and axle beam, which was flagged for corrosion in the latest test. During a physical inspection, check for significant rust or flaking on the rear axle and the front Macpherson strut mountings. On a test drive, listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvres, which may indicate further deterioration of the suspension bushes or the recently replaced ball joints. The record also highlights recurring issues with the exhaust system and a noisy engine cooling fan, both of which warrant investigation. Listen for an excessive drone or rasp from the rear exhaust and check for unusual fan noise when the engine reaches operating temperature. Additionally, the latest test notes that both offside tyres are worn close to the legal limit, and previous advisories regarding thin front brake pads suggest that these consumables may require immediate replacement.