2011 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · FD11 XBC

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but shows a clear trend of worsening mechanical decline following several years of clean records. While it passed its latest test in May 2026 at 41,328 miles, it failed the inspection just weeks prior due to multiple structural and mechanical defects. The sudden transition from zero defects to four separate failures involving suspension, exhaust, and braking indicates that components are reaching the end of their functional life due to age rather than high mileage. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a fifteen-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 2,755 miles per year. There is a significant gap in usage between August 2023 and July 2024, where the car covered only 1,409 miles in eleven months, followed by a more active period of 1,282 miles between 2024 and 2025. Such intermittent use often leads to the degradation of rubber components and accelerated corrosion, which aligns with the structural issues identified in the most recent MOT test. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the underbody to assess the corrosion noted in the May 2026 report. The tester flagged corroded rear suspension arms and coil springs across all units, which poses a risk to structural integrity if left unaddressed further. Furthermore, the worn offside front lower suspension arm bush requires checking for excessive movement, as this will negatively affect handling and cause uneven tyre wear. The braking system also requires attention following the recent failure for imbalanced brakes across an axle. Although the vehicle passed after the rectification, the underlying cause suggests either sticking calipers or uneven discs that may require replacement soon. The minor exhaust leak recorded in the latest test marks the beginning of a system failure that should be monitored for further degradation. Given the low mileage and high age, these issues are likely caused by environmental exposure and material fatigue rather than mechanical wear and tear.