2009 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · LR09 TYV

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Ford Ka, conducted on 2024-11-25, resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround from its previous failures. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly in suspension components, tyre wear, and minor electrical faults, which suggest a need for careful inspection rather than a straightforward maintenance-free purchase. While the most recent test shows no defects, the earlier failures—such as excessively worn suspension bushes, damaged ball joints, and worn drive shaft joints—indicate that the vehicle has experienced significant wear over time, particularly in the rear suspension and front suspension linkages. These recurring advisories and majors point to a vehicle that has either been under-maintained or subjected to heavy usage, which could lead to further deterioration if not addressed promptly. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 130,255 miles at 17 years old represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,662 miles per year, which is typical for its age and class. However, the MOT failures from 2022 and 2024 suggest periods of either higher-than-average mileage accumulation or prolonged standing, which can exacerbate wear on consumables like seals, bushings, and suspension components. The presence of oil leaks and worn suspension elements, particularly in the rear upper shock absorbers and front ball joints, implies that the vehicle may have been driven in conditions that accelerated component fatigue. Buyers should be cautious of any signs of excessive vibration, uneven ride quality, or unusual noises from the suspension during a test drive, as these could indicate further deterioration in these critical areas. Given the vehicle’s age and the documented wear in suspension and tyre systems, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the following components: first, verify the condition of the suspension bushes and ball joints, checking for play, excessive noise (clunks or rattles), or signs of corrosion, especially around the rear suspension. Listen for any irregularities during cornering or over bumps, as worn bushes can lead to binding or excessive movement. The front tyres, particularly the offside front tyre, have been flagged for tread depth below legal limits and worn unevenly, which could indicate alignment or camber issues. Inspect the tread depth and sidewall for signs of dry rot or cracking, as this can compromise tyre integrity and safety. Additionally, check the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs, binding calipers, or uneven wear, which may have been exacerbated by standing or prolonged inactivity. The electrical faults recorded in previous MOTs, such as non-functional lamps and damaged mirrors, should be addressed promptly to ensure compliance with roadworthiness standards. Test all lights—brake, indicator, and position lamps—by operating the vehicle’s controls and checking for proper illumination. Inspect the mirrors for any damage or misalignment, and ensure the registration plate lamp is functional. For the brake system, perform a visual check of the discs and pads for thickness and uniformity, and listen for any grinding or squeaking noises during braking. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, consider a comprehensive fluid check, including the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, as these can degrade over time even without mileage. Replace fluids that are older than 2–3 years, and top up or replace any that show signs of contamination or sludge. A thorough inspection of the exhaust system for corrosion or leaks is also advisable, particularly given the vehicle’s history of oil leaks. Lastly, check the 12V battery for voltage output and overall health, as older batteries may struggle under the demands of modern electrical systems.