2015 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · GL15 CNN

The most recent MOT test on the 2015 Ford Ka, conducted on 2025-11-01, resulted in a passing outcome with persistent but non-failing advisories that have remained consistent over the past six years. While the vehicle has passed each MOT since 2019, the recurring advisories—particularly the near- and offside tyre sidewall cracking or perishing and the light misting of oil in the front shock absorbers—suggest a pattern of wear that has not been fully addressed or resolved. The presence of these advisories indicates that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, it has experienced cumulative mechanical stress, particularly in the tyre and suspension systems, which may warrant closer attention to prevent further degradation or potential failure. The absence of any critical failures or major defects in the last two years, however, suggests that the vehicle’s overall maintenance history has been stable rather than deteriorating, though the advisories imply ongoing or deferred maintenance needs. The recorded mileage of 71,518 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,502 miles, which is typical for its class and age. This figure does not suggest excessive wear beyond what is expected from normal driving conditions, but it also does not indicate light or infrequent use, which could have mitigated some of the observed wear patterns. The lack of significant mileage gaps—particularly between 2020 and 2025—implies consistent usage, which accelerates the consumption of consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components. The tyre sidewall cracking advisories, in particular, are more likely to result from prolonged exposure to road conditions and environmental factors rather than excessive mileage alone, though both factors contribute to their progression. The brake pad wear advisories from 2018 also suggest that the braking system has been subjected to regular use, potentially leading to uneven pad wear or binding if not properly maintained. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a pre-purchase examination are the tyres, suspension, and braking system, given the recurring advisories in these categories. Begin by visually inspecting all four tyres for sidewall cracking, which can indicate long-term exposure to heat, ozone, or poor storage conditions. The near- and offside tyres showing sidewall damage may also exhibit uneven tread wear, which could suggest misalignment, poor suspension alignment, or directional stability issues. Listen for suspension clunks or rattles during a test drive, particularly when navigating bumps or corners, as these may indicate failing shock absorbers or worn suspension bushes. The light misting of oil in the front shock absorbers from previous MOTs suggests internal wear or leakage, which could lead to reduced damping performance and premature failure if not serviced. Check for any signs of fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the shock absorbers and wheel bearings, as oil leaks can accelerate component failure. The braking system should be thoroughly inspected for signs of uneven brake pad wear, corrosion on brake discs, or binding calipers. The 2018 advisories about thin brake pads and brake imbalance indicate that the pads may have been worn down to the minimum legal thickness, and the system may require professional adjustment or replacement to restore even braking performance. Listen for a grinding or squealing noise when applying the brakes, which could signal worn pads or damaged discs, and check for brake fluid leaks around the master cylinder or calipers. Additionally, verify the condition of the rear belts, as the 2023 MOT advisory about them being "not checked" and "items in the way" may pose a risk if they are worn or obstructed. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, consider checking the 12V battery for signs of corrosion or poor terminals, as standing for prolonged periods can accelerate battery degradation. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, inspect the service book for any missing stamps or records, particularly for fluid top-ups (e.g., brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid), which degrade over time and should be replaced at 60,000–100,000 miles or every 5–10 years, whichever comes first. A thorough inspection of the exhaust emissions system is also advisable, as older vehicles may develop catalytic converter or oxygen sensor issues without obvious symptoms.