2018 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · LP67 RWL

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2018 Ford Ka was conducted on 31 January 2026 and resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded. Reviewing the full five-year MOT history available, the vehicle has passed every annual test without a single recorded defect, advisory, or failure, indicating a consistently stable and well-maintained roadworthiness profile. The absence of any advisories is particularly noteworthy, as advisories are commonly issued for minor wear items such as tyre tread approaching the legal limit, minor brake wear, or early corrosion. This clean record suggests the owner has addressed maintenance proactively rather than allowing components to deteriorate to advisory threshold. The recorded mileage of 45,048 miles over an eight-year period equates to an annual average of approximately 5,631 miles, which is considerably below the typical usage for a vehicle of this age and class. This pattern of low annual mileage suggests the Ka has likely seen either predominantly short urban journeys or extended periods of standing between uses. While low mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and gearbox, it presents its own set of age-related concerns. Prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion on brake discs, lead to binding or seized caliper pistons, degrade the 12-volt battery through chronic partial discharge cycles, and cause drying and cracking of rubber components including suspension bushes, dust covers, and drive shaft gaiters. Additionally, short journeys prevent the engine from reaching full operating temperature, which can promote moisture accumulation in engine oil and premature degradation of the lubricant. Given the clean MOT history and low usage profile, a prospective buyer should focus the physical inspection on age-related deterioration rather than component wear thresholds. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking caused by UV exposure and age rather than tread depth alone, as tyres older than six years can suffer structural deterioration even with adequate tread remaining. The production date can be identified via the DOT marking on the sidewall. Brake discs should be visually inspected for severe surface corrosion, pitting, or lipping, and the calipers should be checked for smooth operation, as seized caliper slider pins are common on low-mileage vehicles and will manifest as pulling to one side under braking or uneven pad wear. The handbrake mechanism should also be exercised, as cables and mechanisms can seize from infrequent use. On the test drive, listen for any suspension clonks or knocking over speed bumps, which would indicate perished suspension bushes or worn top mounts, and pay attention to any brake shudder or vibration through the pedal. Finally, the time-based servicing intervals warrant close verification regardless of the low odometer reading. Engine oil and filter should have been changed at least annually or every 12 months regardless of mileage, and confirmation should be sought via the service book stamps or digital service history. Coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil all degrade over time through chemical breakdown and moisture absorption, with brake fluid being particularly hygroscopic and typically requiring replacement every two years to prevent internal brake system corrosion. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as batteries on low-mileage vehicles frequently suffer from sulphation due to chronic undercharging. A compression test or at minimum an oil analysis would provide reassurance regarding internal engine condition given the likelihood of short-journey operation. Verifying the timing chain or belt replacement history according to Ford's age-based schedule is also advisable, as calendar intervals apply even when mileage thresholds have not been reached. Overall, the clean MOT record is encouraging, but due diligence regarding these age-related factors is essential before purchase.