2009 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · LR59 KSF

A pattern of intermittent MOT failure followed by a clean pass is the defining mechanical story of this 2009 Ford Ka, with the most recent test on 10 November 2025 returning a pass with no defects recorded. Three tests were required in late 2025 to achieve this outcome: failures on 31 October and 7 November preceded the pass on 10 November, and a similar sequence occurred a year earlier with a failure on 18 November 2024 followed by a pass on 29 November 2024. The DVSA records unfortunately do not specify the reasons for these failures, which limits the ability to draw conclusions about specific component deterioration. However, the pattern of failing late in the calendar year and subsequently passing after a short interval suggests the defects were likely intermittent or repairable items rather than evidence of progressive structural decline. No advisories have been recorded at any of the listed tests, which means there is no official record of component wear that requires monitoring in the short term. The recorded mileage of 51,473 miles against a vehicle that is approximately 17 years old equates to an annual accumulation of around 3,028 miles, which is notably low for a car of this age. This figure suggests either extended periods of limited use or long stretches where the vehicle was either laid up or used very sparingly. Such low usage can have mixed mechanical consequences for a Ka of this vintage. Braking components, including discs, pads, and caliper slides, are prone to corrosion and seizing when underused, particularly given the UK's damp climate and the prevalence of salt on winter roads. Tyres that have been fitted for extended periods without regular rotation can develop flat spots or sidewall deterioration, and rubber components such as suspension bushes, drive shaft gaiters, and coolant hoses can harden or perish from lack of flexing. The condition of these parts should therefore not be assumed sound simply because mileage is low. Because the MOT failures did not specify which components were at fault, a physical inspection and test drive become particularly important for this vehicle. On a road test, listen for any clonks, knocks, or creaks emanating from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, as the Ka is known for wear in the front wishlist bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, and lower arm joints. The steering should feel precise without vibration through the rack, and any knocking when traversing speed bumps or potholes warrants investigation of the front struts and top mount bearings. Braking performance should be checked for any pulling to one side, grinding noises, or a soft or spongy pedal, which could indicate corroded discs, seized caliper mechanisms, or perished flexible brake hoses — all common concerns on low-mileage vehicles that have seen limited use. A visual check underneath the car for fluid leaks, perished rubber boots, and any surface corrosion to the underbody and suspension components would also be prudent. Given the vehicle's age, an inspection of the exhaust system for corrosion and structural integrity is advisable, as Ka exhausts often suffer from rust at the rear silencer and pipe joints. The 1.2 litre Duratec engine should be started from cold to check for excessive smoke, irregular idling, or hesitation, all of which could indicate underlying issues not captured by the MOT record. Given the multiple late-year tests in both 2024 and 2025, it would be sensible to request documentation from the seller detailing what remedial work was carried out between the failures and the subsequent passes, as this will provide a clearer picture of the vehicle's mechanical condition and confirm that no significant underlying defects remain unaddressed.