2004 Ford KA 1.6L Petrol · EX04 HJC

The most recent MOT, carried out on 8 October 2023, was passed with no recorded defects, confirming that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions standards at that time. Over the preceding eight‑year span the MOT record has been consistently clean, with only advisory notes appearing in 2021 and 2022 and no failures recorded. This pattern indicates a generally stable maintenance regime, with no evidence of deteriorating condition or recurring fault that has yet to be rectified. At 114 026 miles on a 2004 Ford Ka the average annual mileage works out to roughly 5 200 mi per year, which is well below the typical UK average of around 7‑8 000 mi. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, which can be a double‑edged sword: while mechanical wear on wear‑items such as clutch, gearbox and engine internals is likely to be modest, components that depend on regular movement—rubber bushings, suspension joints, brake seals and the battery—may have suffered from ageing or corrosion due to inactivity. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the off‑side rear suspension mounting area where the advisory highlighted corrosion around the trailing‑arm bushes. Feel for any looseness or clunking when applying firm braking and when the rear wheels are forced over bumps; excessive play may indicate worn bushes or a compromised mounting point. The body sills and the under‑seal should be examined for any flaking or loss of protection that could allow moisture ingress, especially around the rear chassis leg and the brake pipe, which was noted as corroded and greased in 2021. Test the parking brake for firm, consistent engagement—any sponginess or just‑meeting‑minimum efficiency may signal worn shoes or a need for adjustment. While driving, listen for any metallic squeal or shudder from the rear brakes and watch for uneven rear wheel wear that could betray mis‑alignment stemming from the corroded mounting area. Given the vehicle’s age and relatively low mileage, a thorough visual and tactile survey of age‑related items is essential. Check all four tyres for side‑wall cracking, dry rot or age‑related perishing, and confirm that tread depth meets the legal minimum; tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread. Inspect the 12‑V battery for sulphation, low cranking voltage and any signs of leakage, as standing periods can shorten battery life. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been changed within the recommended two‑year intervals, as fluids degrade with time even if the car is not driven heavily. Examine the under‑body for any new rust spots beyond the previously noted areas, and ensure the exhaust system is free from cracks or excessive corrosion. Finally, request any service book stamps, particularly evidence of timing‑chain or timing‑belt service (if applicable), and confirm that the vehicle has been regularly serviced to the manufacturer’s schedule, which will give you confidence that the low‑mileage, older Ford Ka remains mechanically sound for continued use.