2009 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · LM07 ROB

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Ka, conducted on 2026-07-08, resulted in a failure due to a dangerous failure regarding the offside front tyre showing exposed ply or cords, alongside several advisories that persisted from the prior test. While the vehicle passed in July 2025 and June 2024, the recurring advisories—particularly the corrosion-related issues in the suspension and axle components—suggest a pattern of wear and potential underlying structural or mechanical degradation. The presence of a dangerous failure in the latest test indicates that the exposed tyre is a critical safety concern, warranting immediate attention before any further use. The progression from advisories to a dangerous failure highlights that the vehicle has not been adequately maintained, and the owner should address these issues promptly to restore roadworthiness. The recorded mileage of 80,380 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 4,728 miles per year, which is significantly below the average for its age. Such low mileage often correlates with prolonged periods of the vehicle being stationary, which can exacerbate issues like corrosion, particularly in suspension components, exhaust systems, and brake systems. Standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to corrosion in the subframe, coil springs, and ball joints due to moisture exposure, leading to the advisories noted in previous MOTs. Additionally, the lack of regular use may result in brake system binding from lack of activation, as seen in the 2023 test, and potential fluid degradation in hydraulic systems if not serviced regularly. For a prospective buyer, the most pressing concern is the exposed ply or cords in the offside front tyre, which is a dangerous failure and must be repaired or replaced immediately to prevent catastrophic tyre failure. During a test drive, listen for uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the edges of the front tyres, which aligns with the MOT findings of worn tyres close to legal limits. Inspect the suspension for excessive play in the ball joints, which the MOT tests flagged, by gently pushing and pulling the corners of the vehicle while it is stationary. Check for clunking noises from the suspension arms or misting in the shock absorbers, which may indicate internal damage or fluid loss. The corrosion advisories in the suspension components, coil springs, and axle suggest that the vehicle’s structural integrity is compromised, and a thorough inspection of these areas—including the subframe and exhaust system—is essential. Addressing the corrosion early can prevent further deterioration and costly repairs. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should also verify the condition of the rear and front brake systems, as the 2024 MOT noted imbalanced brake forces, which could indicate warped discs, worn pads, or binding calipers. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion, binding, or uneven wear, and listen for grinding noises during braking, which may signal metal-on-metal contact. The registration plate lamp and front stop lamp failures from 2024 should be rectified to comply with legal requirements. Given the low mileage, the buyer should also check for tyre sidewall perishing from age, which can compromise structural integrity, and ensure the 12V battery is in good condition, as prolonged inactivity can lead to battery failure. Finally, since the vehicle has not been serviced within the recommended intervals for its age, a comprehensive fluid check—including brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—should be performed, as fluid degradation from standing can accelerate wear in hydraulic and mechanical systems.