2002 Ford KA 1.3L Petrol · BU52 XOV

This Ford Ka presents a highly concerning roadworthiness profile, characterized by a worsening structural trend that culminated in a long-expired MOT status. In the most recent test on 12 July 2023 at 42,685 miles, the vehicle passed only after failing two days prior on 10 July 2023 due to severe structural rust and a blown shock absorber. While the immediate failures were addressed to secure a pass, the tester still flagged ongoing corrosion to the sills as an advisory. This indicates that structural decay is active and unresolved, pointing to a declining maintenance standard where repairs are done reactively rather than preventatively. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging just under 1,800 miles per year. Between November 2021 at 33,620 miles and October 2022 at 37,723 miles, the car covered 4,103 miles, which rose by 4,962 miles over the next nine months leading to the July 2023 test. Crucially, there are no MOT records after July 2023. With the current date being August 2026, this vehicle has been untested for over three years. Such prolonged periods of inactivity heavily exacerbate component degradation, particularly rubber bush perishing, brake seizing, and moisture-driven structural corrosion. A physical inspection must prioritize the vehicle's structural integrity, specifically the sills and rear inner arches. The July 2023 failure highlighted excessive corrosion in the offside rear suspension mounting area, which is a notorious weak spot for this model. Buyers must inspect the quality of any patch welding executed to pass that test and check if the rust has spread to the nearside. The front suspension and steering also require close scrutiny. Previous tests flagged play in both steering rack inner joints and worn lower suspension arm bushes. These components, alongside the corroded front brake hose ferrule noted in October 2022, may have deteriorated further during the subsequent three years of storage and will likely require replacement to make the vehicle roadworthy today.