2009 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · HV59 HLF

A consistent theme across the MOT record is progressive wear on the tyre and suspension package, compounded by a persistent minor exhaust leak; the latest August 2026 test confirmed the car still passes but retained advisories for thin front brake pads and the exhaust leak, indicating that while the vehicle remains road‑legal, the underlying wear pattern has not been fully resolved. Earlier failures for rear stop lamp and front position lamp were remedied, yet the recurrence of tyre‑edge wear, anti‑roll bar linkage ball‑joint play and front shock‑absorber oil misting suggests a gradual deterioration that has not accelerated dramatically but remains a standing concern. With 48,741 mi recorded over 17 years the average annual mileage is roughly 2,900 mi, well below the typical usage for a small hatchback of this age. The low cumulative distance implies limited engine and drivetrain stress, but the repeated tyre‑wear advisories indicate that when the car is driven the tyres experience significant loading, possibly due to the noted suspension bush and ball‑joint wear. The mileage profile shows no abrupt spikes, so there are no indications of recent high‑speed or high‑distance use that would exacerbate wear beyond what the MOT entries already highlight. Prospective buyers should inspect the front brake pads for remaining thickness and be prepared for imminent replacement, as the August 2026 advisory flags them as thin. The minor exhaust leak, recorded in three consecutive years, may manifest as a faint ticking or hissing at idle and could allow exhaust gases into the cabin; a visual check for cracked joints or loose clamps is advisable. The anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint on the nearside front shows slight play, so a test‑drive should include listening for clunking over bumps and feeling for any looseness in the steering column. Front shock absorbers have shown light oil misting since 2022; feel for excessive bounce or fluid seeping around the shock body, which can precede a full seal failure. Tyre condition is the most pressing issue: advisories in 2021, 2023, 2025 and 2026 repeatedly note tyres worn close to the legal limit and even edge damage, with nails reported in three tyres and cracking on the off‑side rear. Examine each tyre for cuts, bulges, uneven tread wear and confirm that the tread depth exceeds the legal minimum before committing. Verify that all external lights—including the rear stop lamp and front position lamp—function correctly, as past failures indicate a propensity for electrical faults. A thorough visual and road‑test inspection of the suspension arms, bushings and brake hoses (noting the twisted off‑side front brake hose flagged in 2023) will help identify any developing faults before they become costly repairs.