2013 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · FE08 JAM

This 2013 Ford Ka has demonstrated a stable but not exemplary roadworthiness trend over its MOT history, with the most recent test on 6 May 2026—just three months prior—confirming a single minor defect in the rear tyres, which remains a recurring issue. While the vehicle passed without further failings, the persistent tyre-related advisory in May 2026 suggests either deferred maintenance or a pattern of neglect, particularly given the offside rear tyre’s cracked condition. The absence of major structural or drivetrain advisories in the last two tests is reassuring, but the 2023 and 2022 records reveal a history of suspension wear, including deteriorated ball joint dust covers, worn suspension bushes, and anti-roll bar play—indicating cumulative stress on these components over time. The mileage progression of 84,450 miles today reflects a steady, if not aggressive, usage rate of approximately 6,500 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no extended gaps in service or abrupt mileage spikes, though the 2022 to 2023 interval—covering 5,042 miles in just over a year—suggests consistent driving rather than prolonged storage. The most notable outlier is the 2023 test, where the vehicle accumulated 5,042 miles between tests, yet still passed with critical suspension advisories, implying these issues were either overlooked or not fully addressed before the MOT. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension components, particularly the front and rear lower arm bushes, ball joints, and anti-roll bar linkages, as these were flagged in multiple tests. The 2023 deterioration of the offside front lower suspension arm dust cover and the 2022 play in the near-side front anti-roll bar ball joint warrant immediate visual and functional assessment for excessive wear or corrosion. Additionally, the rear tyres—particularly the offside—require close scrutiny for perishing or cracking, as this defect has persisted despite passing MOTs. While the brakes and exhaust emissions have not been noted in recent tests, the absence of advisories does not guarantee long-term reliability, so a professional brake system check, including caliper binding and disc thickness, is advisable. Structural integrity, especially around wheel arches and suspension mounts, should also be examined for signs of corrosion or fatigue, given the vehicle’s age.