2017 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · DF17 SWZ

The most recent MOT on 2 July 2026 was passed, but it carried a number of advisories: the internal headlight adjuster still requires re‑checking, the central stop lamp remains inoperative, the front lower suspension arm ball‑joint dust cover is severely deteriorated, and the registration plates are showing deterioration. Earlier tests show a similar pattern, with recurring headlight‑adjuster notes each year, repeated plate advisories, and a growing list of wear items – notably thin front brake pads and worn front discs noted in 2025, front‑tyre edge wear in 2024, and rear‑tyre cracking in 2023. Although no outright failures have been recorded, the defect trend is gradually worsening, indicating that maintenance has kept the car roadworthy but is now lagging behind the natural wear progression. At 44,494 mi the 2017 Ford Ka averages just under 5,000 mi per year, well below the typical UK usage of 8‑12 000 mi annually. Such low mileage suggests the vehicle has spent considerable periods idle, which can be as detrimental as high mileage for age‑related components. Prolonged standing accelerates tyre perishing, battery sulphation, and corrosion of suspension bushings and brake hardware, while the engine and drivetrain have likely benefited from reduced wear. There are no large mileage spikes that would point to a hidden high‑use period, so the wear you see is primarily calendar‑driven. For a prospective buyer the immediate focus should be on the brake system and tyres. The 2025 advisory about thin front pads and worn discs means the braking performance may already be compromised; inspect pad thickness and disc surface for scoring, listen for any shudder or squeal under hard braking, and be prepared to replace both pads and discs on the front axle. The front tyres were flagged as close to the legal limit in 2024 and show inner‑edge wear, while the rear tyres were described as slightly cracked and perishing in 2023 – check tread depth across the width, look for sidewall cracks or dry rot, and consider replacing the set if any tyre is below 3 mm or shows age‑related cracking, regardless of remaining tread. Examine the front lower suspension arm ball‑joint dust cover for corrosion; a deteriorated cover often precedes ball‑joint wear, so test for any clunk when applying load to the wheel and check for play in the ball joint. Verify that the central stop lamp (rear brake light) functions correctly, as its failure is a safety issue, and have the headlight adjuster set to the correct aim to avoid illegal lighting. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑use profile, time‑based maintenance is crucial. Inspect the 12 V battery for charge holding and terminal corrosion, especially if the car has been stationary for long periods; a load test is advisable. Examine all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and power‑steering fluid – for colour, level and any signs of contamination, as they may have degraded despite low mileage. Look for rust on the chassis, wheel arches and exhaust, and ensure any visible corrosion is treated. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and any recommended interval services; a complete service history will give confidence that the engine internals have been cared for despite the modest mileage.