2014 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · FN64 OOW

The most recent MOT test on 2 February 2026 resulted in a pass, but it was accompanied by five advisories spanning the braking system, suspension, and engine oil leakage. A review of the recent DVSA history indicates a worsening maintenance trend, as the 2022 and 2020 tests were recorded with no defects at all, while every test from 2023 onwards has carried at least one advisory, culminating in the cluster of five noted at the most recent inspection. The presence of recurring advisories for front brake disc condition, rear brake pipe corrosion, engine oil leakage, and rear axle beam corrosion across consecutive tests suggests these are progressive issues that have not yet reached failure threshold but will continue to deteriorate without intervention. With 106,658 miles recorded over approximately twelve years, this Ford Ka has covered an average of around 8,888 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and class. There are no significant mileage gaps or sudden accumulations evident in the recorded history, indicating reasonably steady use rather than long periods of standing or excessive high-mileage driving. This consistent usage pattern is generally favourable for mechanical components such as the clutch, drivetrain, and brakes, which suffer more from irregular use or excessive load than from moderate, regular running. The relatively modest annual mileage does, however, mean that some age-related deterioration such as corrosion and rubber degradation is likely to be more prominent than wear from high mileage. Prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the recurring advisories. The front brake discs, flagged as worn, pitted, or scored across three consecutive tests, will require close inspection for lipping around the outer edge, surface corrosion, and any juddering or vibration through the steering wheel under heavy braking, as pitted discs typically need replacement once they reach the minimum thickness or cause noticeable brake shudder. The advisories concerning corroded rear brake pipes are a more serious long-term concern; while currently covered in grease and not deemed an MOT failure, brake pipe corrosion can progress to perforation, and a buyer should budget for eventual replacement of the rear pipework. The persistent engine oil leak from the front of the engine should be monitored by checking the underside of the engine and the driveway for fresh oil deposits, while also keeping watch for any worsening seepage around the sump, cam cover, or front crankshaft seal. The corroded rear axle beam and worn offside front lower suspension arm pin or bush warrant a thorough test drive over uneven surfaces, listening for clonks, knocks, or vague steering response, and a visual check underneath for any cracking or excessive play in the bush. Additional age-appropriate checks remain advisable despite the MOT record. Even though the previous tyre advisory from 2023 has not recurred, all four tyres should be examined for both legal tread depth and sidewall cracking or perishing, as rubber degrades with age regardless of mileage, and a twelve-year-old Ka may well be due for replacements on age grounds alone. The 12V battery should be tested for its state of health, as original units are long past their service life. Brake fluid should ideally have been changed every two years regardless of mileage, and given the calendar age, this is overdue unless documented evidence confirms otherwise. Coolant system condition, including the radiator, hoses, and thermostat operation, should be verified, and the exhaust system inspected for corrosion at the mounting brackets and joints, particularly given the rear axle corrosion already noted. Finally, the rear coil springs flagged in 2024 for corrosion should be re-examined for any cracking, as corroded springs can fail without warning.