2010 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · LS10 YFW

Chronic corrosion of the rear axle and coil springs, combined with recurring exhaust and oil leaks, represents the primary mechanical risk for this vehicle. While it passed its most recent test on 13 February 2026, the record shows a persistent trend of deterioration regarding the exhaust system and structural corrosion that has been flagged across multiple years. The history is further marked by significant safety failures in 2023 involving missing road wheel fixings and a non-functional horn. The recorded mileage of 78,340 miles over sixteen years indicates a low annual average of roughly 4,896 miles. This usage pattern suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy drivetrain wear, but the prevalence of corrosion on the rear beam and coil springs is often associated with vehicles that have spent significant time stationary or have been exposed to damp environments. During a physical inspection and test drive, particular attention must be paid to the rear suspension and axle. Listen for knocks or clunks when driving over uneven surfaces, which may indicate that the corroded coil springs or rear beam are nearing failure. The exhaust system should be checked for audible leaks or a distinct smell of exhaust gases in the cabin, as leaks at both the front and rear joints were noted in the latest inspection. The engine and gearbox should be inspected for active oil leaks, as these have been recurring advisories since at least 2021. Check for oil residue around the engine block and gearbox casing, and observe if there is a smell of burning oil during the test drive. Additionally, the operation of the handbrake should be verified to ensure it does not require excessive travel to secure the vehicle, following previous advisories regarding the brake travel limit.