2009 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · LL09 EWB

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Ka, conducted on 2025-09-12, resulted in a passing grade despite several persistent advisories and a concerning history of brake-related failures. While the vehicle passed this test, the pattern over the past three years reveals a concerning trend of recurring mechanical issues, particularly in the suspension and braking systems. The 2023-09-12 failure highlighted major defects in the front lower suspension arm bush and rear shock absorbers, alongside corrosion in the coil springs, indicating progressive wear that has not been adequately addressed. The 2025-09-11 failure further underscores the criticality of the near-side rear service brake, which was deemed unsafe with no recorded effort at the wheel, a failure that would have been fatal in a real-world scenario if left unresolved. This suggests that while the vehicle may have passed recent tests, the underlying mechanical degradation—particularly in the suspension and braking components—demonstrates a pattern of neglect or deferred maintenance that warrants immediate attention. The recorded mileage of 52,587 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a notably low annual usage rate of around 3,093 miles per year, which is unusually low for its age. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged inactivity, where components like brakes, suspension bushes, and coil springs can suffer from accelerated wear due to standing corrosion, particularly in the rear suspension and exhaust system. The repeated advisories concerning the rear coil springs being corroded on both sides, as recorded in multiple MOTs, strongly suggest that the vehicle has been left stationary for extended durations, allowing moisture and environmental elements to accelerate corrosion without regular servicing. This standing corrosion is particularly dangerous in coil springs, as it can compromise structural integrity and lead to sudden failure under load, posing a significant risk to roadworthiness. Given the vehicle’s age, mileage, and the pattern of recurring defects, the prospective buyer should conduct a meticulous physical inspection to address the most critical issues before proceeding with purchase. First and foremost, the near-side rear service brake failure from 2025-09-11 is the highest priority, as the absence of recorded effort at the wheel indicates a seized or binding caliper, which would require immediate replacement to restore safe braking performance. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a spongy or harsh feel, or any grinding noises when applying brakes, which could signal binding or worn brake discs. The rear suspension advisories—particularly the corroded coil springs and excessively worn bushes—demand inspection of the rear suspension linkage, shock absorbers, and mounting points for signs of further deterioration. Visually check for oil leaks around the near-side front inner oil leak, which could indicate failing seals or gaskets in the engine bay or transmission area, and ensure no fluid is pooling under the vehicle. For the tyre advisories, the near-side front tyre is worn close to the legal limit on the edge, approaching the cords or ply, which is a serious safety hazard and must be replaced immediately. The offside rear tyre shows signs of cracking or perishing, which, despite not being a legal issue, indicates long-term exposure to UV degradation and road salt, further compromising tyre integrity. Inspect the tyres for uneven wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues, and ensure the tread depth meets legal standards. The exhaust system advisories, including minor leaks and defective mounting, should be addressed to prevent further emissions-related failures or carbon monoxide ingestion risks. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, consider checking the 12V battery for signs of weakness or corrosion, as prolonged standing can drain batteries or cause internal degradation. Additionally, inspect the engine oil and coolant levels, as standing fluids can degrade over time, and verify that the service book records any scheduled fluid changes or component replacements that may have been missed. A thorough check of the exhaust emissions system, particularly for leaks that could affect performance and compliance, is also advisable.