2012 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · LA12 VOG

The most recent MOT, carried out on 30 January 2026, was passed but recorded an advisory that the off‑side front suspension arm ball‑joint exhibits slight play. Over the past two years the vehicle has alternated between passes and failures, with major failures for lighting, washer fluid delivery and an excessively worn anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball‑joint in early 2026, and recurring advisories for rear coil‑spring corrosion, tyre wear on the edges, brake‑disc pitting and slight steering rack free play. The pattern shows a mixture of resolved items and new or persisting wear points, indicating a maintenance record that is not consistently improving and that requires targeted attention to the suspension and steering components. At 82,788 mi the Ford Ka averages roughly 5,900 mi per year, well below the typical 10‑12 000 mi expected for a vehicle of its age. Such low utilisation often points to long periods of inactivity, which can accelerate the degradation of rubber seals, battery capacity and corrosion of metal parts, even though the overall mileage‑related wear on major drivetrain components is likely modest. The relatively low cumulative distance does not offset the need to inspect age‑related deterioration, especially where the MOT notes show corrosion of rear coil springs and the exhaust system. When you inspect the car, give particular focus to the front suspension assembly: feel for any looseness or clunking when the wheel is rocked and when the steering wheel is turned at low speed, and verify that the ball‑joint play has not increased beyond the advisory level. Examine the anti‑roll‑bar linkage for excessive wear or looseness, and check the rear coil springs for signs of rust or loss of elasticity, which can manifest as uneven ride height or a soft, “bouncy” feel. The tyres, especially the off‑side front and near‑side rear, should be measured for tread depth and inspected for edge wear that could indicate mis‑alignment; any tyre that is close to the legal limit should be replaced promptly. The brake discs on the off‑side front, noted as pitted, should be examined for deep scoring or thinning that could cause brake shudder under hard braking, and the overall braking system should be tested for consistent pedal feel and the absence of vibration. Finally, confirm that all external lighting functions correctly – position lamps, stop lamps and the registration plate lamp – as these were previously failed items. Verify the washer system delivers a steady spray, and inspect the exhaust for any advancing corrosion that could affect emissions or create rattles. Given the vehicle’s age and likely periods of standing, assess the 12 V battery’s cranking power, check for any fluid leaks, and ensure that engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been refreshed according to a time‑based service interval rather than mileage alone. A thorough visual inspection of the chassis for rust, especially around the wheel arches and under the sills, will also help you gauge the overall structural integrity before committing to purchase.