2017 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · LT17 YUD

The most recent DVSA examination on 20 September 2025 resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, which is the most favourable outcome available and indicates the vehicle was deemed roadworthy at that time. However, the broader MOT history reveals a recurring pattern of lighting-related issues that warrants careful attention. On the same date in September 2025, the vehicle failed on two presentation of repairable standard items relating to the offside headlamp dipped beam and an inoperative registration plate lamp. The previous September 2024 test produced a similar failure for a nearside front headlamp not functioning on dipped beam, alongside an advisory concerning a non-working central high-level stop lamp. In September 2023, a minor defect was noted for an inoperative nearside registration plate lamp. The fact that the most recent test passed cleanly suggests these lighting faults were rectified prior to the latest assessment, though the recurrence of identical categories of failure across consecutive years indicates an underlying concern with the vehicle's electrical integrity, bulb seating, or wiring condition that may resurface. With 93,544 miles recorded over approximately nine years, this Ford Ka has covered an average of around 10,394 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical usage band for a vehicle of its age and class. There are no unusually large gaps in the recorded mileage progression between tests, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular rather than sporadic use. This steady annual accumulation is mechanically favourable in one respect, indicating that consumable components such as tyres, brake friction material, and drivetrain lubricants have been exercised consistently rather than left to degrade through standing. However, the mileage is sufficiently high that wear-related items including brake discs, calipers, suspension bushes, coil springs, and the clutch mechanism should be assumed to have experienced meaningful service life and warrant thorough physical appraisal. Given the repeated lighting failures on both headlamp dipped beam circuits and the registration plate lamps, a prospective buyer should methodically verify full operation of all exterior illumination prior to purchase, including dipped beam, main beam, indicators, hazard flashers, brake lights, reverse lights, fog lamps, and number plate illumination. On a test drive, pay close attention to any flickering or intermittent behaviour from the headlamps, particularly when traversing uneven road surfaces, as this could indicate failing bulb holders, corroded earth points, or fatigued wiring within the headlamp assembly itself. The persistent advisory regarding the central high-level stop lamp also suggests a need to inspect the third brake light circuit, commonly failing due to failed LED units or poor contact within the housing. Should the seller be unable to demonstrate immediate replacement of these components with receipts, factor the cost of renewed bulbs, holders, or potential wiring rectification into any negotiation. Beyond the documented lighting concerns, this nine-year-old Ka with nearly 94,000 miles demands inspection of items that deteriorate with age and accumulated use rather than purely by mileage. Examine all four tyres closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds harden with calendar age regardless of tread depth, and verify that replacements are of matching specification. Check the brake discs for lipping, surface corrosion, and any signs of binding calipers by ensuring the vehicle rolls freely when released on level ground. Inspect the exhaust system from the manifold rearward for corrosion-induced weakness, paying particular attention to mounting rubbers and joints. Lift the bonnet and examine coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid for condition and age, as these degrade over time and should be serviced in line with manufacturer schedules irrespective of the recorded test outcomes. Finally, verify that the 12V battery is holding charge satisfactorily, as repeated short trips combined with the age of the vehicle commonly lead to premature battery failure, and confirm that the service history demonstrates regular oil and filter changes at appropriate intervals.