2012 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · LO12 TXT

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance history indicates a worsening trend regarding structural and suspension integrity. While the most recent test in August 2025 at 125,107 miles passed, the tester noted a corroded rear coil spring. This follows a 2024 test where the offside rear coil spring was also flagged and the nearside lower suspension ball joint showed play. The persistence of corrosion-related defects suggests the suspension components are reaching the end of their service life. The mileage pattern is consistent with a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 9,000 miles per year. The record shows steady usage, for example, roughly 7,300 miles covered between August 2024 and August 2025. The sharp failure in August 2022 at 101,347 miles revealed multiple significant mechanical failures, including a leaking shock absorber and worn suspension arm bushes and joints, indicating a period where significant wear and tear caught up with the vehicle before being addressed by the previous owner. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the rear subframe, which was noted for signs of corrosion in 2024. Given the recurring issues with corroded springs and worn bushes, the structural integrity of the lower chassis is the primary concern. The buyer should also verify the front upper strut mounting and the exhaust system, as these were previously flagged for leaks in 2023. The transition from a clean record in 2022 to recurring suspension and corrosion faults indicates that the vehicle is now entering a phase requiring more frequent preventative maintenance.