2009 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · CV09 EPX

The most recent MOT, dated 14 February 2026, was passed but returned several advisories concerning front brake disc condition, thin front inner pads, a binding rear service brake on the nearside, and corrosion of both front and rear coil springs. Earlier tests show a clean pass in January 2024 and December 2022, but a major failure on 21 December 2022 for inadequate parking‑brake effort on both wheels. The pattern suggests that the severe parking‑brake fault was remedied, bringing the car back to a passable state, yet wear on the braking system and early signs of suspension corrosion are now emerging. Overall the maintenance trend is stable but shows the typical progression of age‑related wear that is beginning to surface. With 50,277 miles recorded over 17 years the vehicle averages just under 3,000 miles per annum, well below the UK average for a small hatchback. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of inactivity, which can accelerate corrosion of suspension components, cause battery sulphation, and allow seals and gaskets to dry out. Conversely, the modest mileage means that high‑wear items such as clutch plates, engine bearings and transmission gears are likely to be in relatively good condition, provided the car has been stored in a dry environment and serviced regularly. When you inspect the car, pay particular attention to the braking system. The front disc is already described as worn, pitted and scored; expect reduced braking efficiency and a possible pulsation or shudder under heavy braking. Measure disc thickness and check for deep scoring; replacement of both discs and the thin inner pads should be budgeted. The nearside rear service brake binding may manifest as a slight pull to the left when applying the foot brake or a grinding noise on deceleration; verify that the caliper moves freely and that the brake hose is not collapsed. The parking‑brake failure recorded in 2022 indicates that the secondary system may still be marginal – test the handbrake for firm, even hold on both wheels and listen for any dragging or uneven release. The coil‑spring corrosion advisories suggest that the suspension bushes and spring mounts could be compromised; look for rust at the spring seats, uneven tyre wear, and any clunking noises over bumps, which would warrant replacement of the springs and associated bushings. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or age‑related hardening, even if the tread depth appears adequate. Verify that the 12‑volt battery is not excessively aged – a load test or checking for a voltage above 12.6 V when idle is advisable. Examine all fluid levels and consider a complete change of engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid, as time rather than mileage can degrade their performance. Look for rust on the chassis, especially around wheel arches and under‑body panels, and ensure that any corrosion is surface‑level and not structural. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil changes and that any recommended timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable) has been performed, as these are critical for long‑term reliability on a low‑mileage, older vehicle.