2013 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · DP13 FYU

The most recent DVSA examination on 5 March 2026 resulted in a Pass, although two advisories were issued. The nearside rear tyre was noted as worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge, and corrosion to the rear axle was again flagged. Looking at the broader pattern, the maintenance trend is not improving and arguably shows gradual deterioration. The 2023 test was entirely clean, but the 2024, 2025, and 2026 tests have all carried advisories relating to underbody and rear axle corrosion, with a failed headlamp aim item in February 2025 and a serious nearside rear shock absorber fluid leak noted in early 2022. This indicates a vehicle whose structural underside is progressively succumbing to age-related corrosion rather than any single isolated incident. With 71,758 miles recorded against a 2013 registration, annual usage works out at roughly 5,520 miles per year, which is notably low for a city car of this vintage. The gap between the November 2020 test and the March 2022 test, when mileage is not explicitly recorded but the long interval suggests reduced use, is consistent with extended periods of standing. Low annual mileage is generally kinder to the engine, clutch, and gearbox, but it can be punishing for items that rely on regular operation. Brake discs and calipers can corrode and bind, coolant and brake fluid lose effectiveness through calendar age rather than mileage, tyres can perish on the sidewalls without significant tread wear, the 12V battery will suffer from chronic undercharging, and oil seals and gaskets can dry out and weep when a vehicle is left idle for long stretches. A pre-purchase inspection should pay particular attention to these time-related deterioration factors. Given the recurring advisories on the rear axle, sub-frame, and general underbody suspension and brake component corrosion noted at every MOT since 2022, any prospective buyer should arrange for the vehicle to be examined on a ramp. Surface corrosion on suspension arms, coil springs, and the rear sub-frame should be assessed for its depth and flaking, with particular attention to the rear axle and shock absorber mounting areas. A shock absorber that has previously been replaced for fluid leakage should be checked for top mount wear, and a road test should include firm braking to listen for any binding caliper or pulling to one side, given the historical front disc wear and the possibility of corrosion pitting on the discs after low-speed use. The minor exhaust gas leak and oil leak noted in 2022 should also be re-checked, as four years on these could have progressed, with the exhaust joint, manifold gasket, and engine oil seals being the most likely sources. On a test drive, expect a slightly firmer ride from a 13 year old car and listen for clonks or knocks from the rear suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn bushes or corroded spring seats. Because the most recent advisory concerns a nearside rear tyre worn on the edge, this is often a symptom of rear axle geometry drift caused by corroded trailing arm mountings, so the wheel alignment and the condition of the rear beam bushes should be physically inspected. In addition to the corrosion and suspension items, the buyer should verify the age of the tyres, check the 12V battery for hold-charge strength, ensure the brake fluid and coolant have been changed within the last two to three years regardless of mileage, and confirm that the timing chain and clutch have not suffered from infrequent use and oil degradation. A full Ford service history would significantly strengthen confidence in this otherwise ageing and corrosion-prone example.