2009 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · GF09 VRW

The most recent DVSA examination on 11 November 2025 resulted in a Pass, although it was accompanied by several advisories that warrant attention. Notably, the test immediately prior on 4 November 2025 was a Fail that included both Major and Dangerous defects, specifically a major exhaust gas leak at the front exhaust and a nearside front tyre bulge caused by structural separation, alongside advisories relating to engine misfire and front lower suspension arm pin or bush wear. While the vehicle subsequently passed, the rapid turnaround between the Fail and Pass, combined with the seriousness of the dangerous tyre and exhaust defects, suggests the work undertaken between the two tests was rectification rather than preventative. Reviewing the longer term pattern, the rear sub-frame corrosion advisory has now appeared at four consecutive tests from 2022 through 2025, indicating a progressive but, as yet, non-serious deterioration. Coil spring corrosion across all four springs was noted in 2024, and brake related defects, including imbalanced rear braking, a seized nearside rear caliper, and insufficient brake lever reserve travel, surfaced as Major failures in late 2024, indicating a worsening rather than stable trajectory in the braking and undercarriage condition. The recorded mileage of 39,972 miles on a 17 year old vehicle equates to an average of roughly 2,351 miles per year, which is exceptionally low for any car of this age. MOT records confirm this, with annual mileages in the low thousands and likely extended periods of standing. Such low usage tends to be kinder to major mechanical components such as the engine internals, clutch, and gearbox, but it accelerates certain forms of deterioration. Standing corrosion, particularly on the brake discs, calipers, and underbody, is typical, and the binding rear brake caliper noted in 2023 and the subsequent 2024 Major failure for an excessively binding nearside rear service brake with no recorded effort at the wheel suggest the brakes may have been seizing from inactivity. Exhaust components, rubber bushes, and exterior body trim also degrade faster from disuse and exposure than from wear, and the 2022 exhaust advisory as well as the 2025 front exhaust major leak reinforce this pattern. Given the recurring advisories for corrosion on the rear sub-frame, coil springs, shock absorbers, and strut top caps, a prospective buyer should carry out a thorough underside examination, ideally with the vehicle raised on a ramp, paying particular attention to the rear sub-frame mounting points, the suspension turret tops, and the spring pans for any progression beyond the surface corrosion already recorded. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension over bumps, which would indicate worn lower arm bushes given the 2024 and 2025 advisories, and feel for any pulling to one side under braking, which may point to the rear caliper issue returning or to imbalance across the rear axle. The brake pedal should feel firm with adequate reserve travel, and the handbrake should hold the vehicle securely on an incline. Examine the front exhaust joint and downpipe for any signs of blow or fresh welding, as the 2025 major leak was only narrowly rectified before the retest. Due to the very low annual mileage, several age related checks are also essential before purchase. Inspect the sidewalls of all tyres closely for perishing and cracking, as a 17 year old tyre will degrade chemically regardless of tread depth, and confirm that none are older than around six years of manufacture. The 12 volt battery should be load tested, as infrequent running typically leads to sulphation and premature failure, and the charging system voltage should be verified with the engine running. Brake fluid and engine coolant should be regarded as time expired rather than mileage expired and are very likely due for replacement given the calendar age. Check that the cam belt, if fitted, has a documented replacement history consistent with Ford's recommended intervals, and verify that the ignition system, including coil packs, spark plugs, and injector leads, has been refreshed, as the 2025 engine misfire advisory hints at possible neglect in this area. Finally, confirm a continuous service history with stamps at sensible intervals, as low recorded mileage alone does not guarantee regular oil and filter changes have been performed.