2011 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · MT11 GTY

The most recent DVSA test on 5 November 2025 recorded a failure for headlamp aim on both sides, which means the vehicle did not pass that MOT. In addition, an advisory highlighted slightly worn top‑mount bushings on the rear shock absorbers. Compared with the earlier records – clean passes in 2022 and 2023 and a pass with only advisory items in 2024 – the trend is moving from stable to mildly deteriorating, with the first outright failure appearing after a period of apparently satisfactory performance. At 90 113 miles for a 2011 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 6 000 mi per year, which sits comfortably within normal UK usage levels. The relatively low cumulative mileage for a fifteen‑year‑old suggests the car may have spent extended periods idle or been used only for short trips. While low mileage can be attractive, prolonged standing can accelerate ageing of rubber components, lead to corrosion in the chassis and cause battery capacity loss, all of which should be examined closely. When you inspect the car, pay particular attention to the rear shock absorber top mounts; the advisory notes slight wear, which can manifest as a softening of rear ride quality, occasional clunking over bumps, or uneven tyre wear on the rear axle. The front left shock shows light oil misting – a sign that internal seals are beginning to leak and the damper may lose effectiveness, especially when loaded. The off‑side front suspension arm ball joint was recorded with slight play, which can produce a vague knocking sensation when turning or when the wheel is loaded, and may eventually lead to mis‑alignment if not corrected. The headlamp aim failure is a straightforward rectification – the headlamp units will need to be realigned to the correct vertical and horizontal angles, and the condition of the lamp housings and reflectors should be checked for fogging or damage that could affect illumination. During a test drive listen for any suspension noises, feel for any looseness in the steering, and verify that braking is firm without pulsation, as worn bushings and ball‑joint play can influence brake feel. Given the car’s age, a thorough visual and tactile survey is essential even if the mileage is modest. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or age‑related hardening, and verify that tread depth is even across all four wheels. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and assess the state of charge; a battery that has sat for long periods may need replacement. Check for any signs of rust on the wheel arches, sills and under‑carriage, especially in the rear wheel wells where moisture can collect. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed within the recommended intervals – fluid colour should be clear to amber, not dark or milky. Finally, confirm that the service book contains stamps for regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain checks (if applicable), and that any previous suspension or lighting work has been documented, as this will give you confidence that the emerging issues have been addressed promptly.