2013 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · DF13 HAU

A clean and consistent roadworthiness profile defines this thirteen-year-old Ford Ka, supported by an MOT history that shows a pass at the most recent test on 11 April 2026 with no advisories recorded, alongside four further passes across 2024 and 2025. The only interruption in an otherwise uninterrupted sequence of passes is a single fail dated 22 May 2025, which carried no recorded defects, suggesting an administrative or refusal-to-test scenario rather than a substantive mechanical defect, as evidenced by the vehicle passing at the very next available test the following day. The absence of recurring advisories for corrosion, suspension wear, brake component deterioration, or exhaust issues across the five most recent tests is a positive indicator for a vehicle of this age, where typical wear items would normally begin to surface by the second decade of service. Annual mileage accumulation sits at approximately 6,500 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a small city-oriented hatchback of this vintage and aligns with what would be anticipated from a second or third household vehicle used for short urban journeys. The mileage progression appears steady and consistent with regular rather than intensive use, meaning major drivetrain components, clutch assembly, and brake friction materials are unlikely to have absorbed excessive wear. However, low-to-moderate annual mileage combined with short-trip urban use can introduce its own mechanical considerations, particularly where undertray protection, brake disc surface corrosion, and suspension component oxidation are concerned, even though none of these have yet been flagged by the testing station. For a prospective buyer conducting a physical inspection, particular attention should be directed to the suspension assembly, as the front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam, and associated anti-roll bar linkages on Ka models of this generation are known to deteriorate with age. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly on speed humps and rough tarmac, which would indicate worn top mounts, drop links, or bottom arm bushes. Check for uneven or accelerated tyre wear, which can point to suspension geometry issues or worn compliance bushings, and inspect the rear axle mounting points for any visible corrosion. Steering should feel direct and self-centring without vibration through the wheel, and the front discs should provide smooth retardation without any pulsing sensation through the brake pedal. Under-bonnet inspection should focus on the 1.2-litre Duratec unit, looking specifically for signs of oil leakage from the cam cover gasket, oil filter housing, and the lower sump area, as small-capacity engines of this type frequently develop minor seepages once service intervals stretch. Inspect the coolant expansion tank and associated hoses for staining or crystallisation that would suggest weeping joints, and verify the condition of the auxiliary drive belt for any glazing or cracking. On the road, ensure the engine pulls smoothly from cold without hesitation or rough idle, the clutch operates without slipping or juddering on engagement, and the gearbox selects all ratios cleanly without synchro wear being evident. Finally, examine the exhaust system from the manifold gasket rearward for any blowing joints, corrosion at the mounting rubbers, or visible deterioration of the silencer and tailpipe, as replacement of these components on a vehicle approaching its teenage years is a realistic budgeting consideration.