2010 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · LS10 AAN

Recurring issues with oil leaks, suspension components, and braking efficiency define the mechanical profile of this Ford Ka, which most recently passed its MOT on 23 February 2026. The inspection history shows a persistent pattern of advisories, specifically regarding an engine oil leak that has been noted in every recorded test since March 2024. While the latest result indicates the vehicle is roadworthy, the presence of multiple ongoing advisories—including corrosion on the rear suspension component mounting areas and oil misting on the offside front shock absorber—suggests a trend of gradual component degradation rather than a clean mechanical record. The vehicle has covered 85,039 miles over its sixteen-year lifespan, representing an average annual accumulation of approximately 5,315 miles. This is a low mileage profile for a vehicle of this age. Mechanically, while lower mileage often implies less wear on high-use components like the drivetrain, it can also coincide with longer periods of inactivity or limited usage, which may contribute to the observed issues with braking efficiency and the gradual development of corrosion on suspension mounting points. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the braking system and suspension integrity during a test drive. The failure in February 2026 regarding parking brake efficiency and an inoperative offside rear parking brake indicates that the handbrake mechanism requires scrutiny. On a test drive, check for a long or loose handbrake lever pull and ensure the vehicle holds firmly on an incline. Additionally, the repeated advisories for worn tyres and the recent issues with shock absorber misting suggest that the suspension and steering components should be evaluated for stability. Listen for any knocking or clunking noises when traversing uneven surfaces, which could indicate further deterioration of the shock absorbers or suspension bushes. The documented corrosion on the rear suspension component mounting areas and the persistent engine oil leak are significant points for investigation. Although the corrosion was not deemed excessive in the latest test, it is a progressive issue that warrants close visual inspection of the subframe and mounting points for any signs of structural thinning. Regarding the oil leak, check the engine bay for heavy accumulation or dripping that could indicate the leak is worsening beyond the 'not excessive' level recorded by the tester. Any noticeable smell of burning oil after a drive or visible smoke from the exhaust could signal that the leak is impacting other engine components.