2011 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · LP60 UBO

The most recent MOT on 13 June 2026 was a clean pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the past six years the record shows a mixture of minor advisories and a single failure in October 2024 for an out‑of‑limit lambda reading, but the majority of entries are passes. The recurrence of front‑shock oil mist, front suspension arm wear and a modest oil leak suggests a pattern of ageing component wear, yet the absence of any new major failures in the latest test points to a generally stable maintenance trend, provided the identified issues are addressed promptly. At 75,318 miles for a 2011 model the average annual mileage is roughly 5,000 mi, well below the typical 10,000‑12,000 mi seen on many UK cars. Such low utilisation often means reduced wear on wear‑items such as brakes, tyres and clutch, but it can also indicate long periods of inactivity which accelerate age‑related degradation of rubber seals, batteries and corrosion‑prone parts. There are no obvious mileage spikes that would suggest a period of heavy use, so the wear observed is more likely to be a function of calendar age rather than high mileage stress. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension and shock absorbers. The repeated advisory for light oil mist from the off‑side front shock and the worn front lower arm bushes and ball‑joint play can manifest as a soft, squishy feel over bumps, clunking noises when turning or hitting potholes, and uneven front tyre wear. A thorough visual inspection of the shock absorber seals for oil stains and a test‑drive focusing on front‑end stability will help confirm the condition. The off‑side rear wheel was noted as slightly distorted; a wheel run‑out check and a feel for any vibration at higher speeds are advisable, as excessive out‑of‑round can lead to premature tyre wear and bearing stress. The 2024 exhaust failure for a lambda sensor out‑of‑limit reading should be investigated – a faulty O₂ sensor or a developing catalytic converter issue can affect fuel efficiency and may re‑trigger a MOT failure if not rectified. Brake pads were recorded as thin (≈3 mm) in 2024; the buyer should measure current pad thickness and inspect the discs for scoring or rust, as thin pads can cause reduced braking performance and increased disc wear. Given the vehicle’s age, even with low mileage, time‑related checks are essential. Examine all tyres for side‑wall cracking, perishing or dry‑rot, especially the near‑side rear tyre flagged as slightly damaged in 2022; tyres older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread depth. Inspect the battery for sulphation and confirm it holds charge under load, as stand‑still periods can diminish capacity. Verify that all fluid levels – engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and gearbox oil – are at correct levels and appear clear, and ask for evidence of any interval servicing, particularly any oil change or coolant flush that may have been performed after the recorded oil leak advisories. A comprehensive visual inspection of the under‑carriage for corrosion, especially around suspension mounting points and the exhaust system, will help ensure that the low‑mileage usage has not concealed age‑related deterioration.