2018 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · NA18 XMZ

The 2018 Ford Ka passed its most recent MOT test on 19 March 2026, although the same visit also produced a failure and a Major defect relating to the rear axle swivel pins and bushes, which were deemed excessively worn on both sides. The pattern across the recorded tests shows that issues have been intermittent rather than progressive, but the recurrence of Major defects within a single calendar year is a notable concern. The 2024 test similarly resulted in a failure due to a non-functional front windscreen washer, a major exhaust leak with associated emissions impact, while that same test also recorded an advisory for thin front brake pads. With the most recent advisory concerning nearside front tyre wear on the inner or outer edge, alongside the rear suspension defect, there is a clear theme of chassis, braking and tyre-related attention that any prospective buyer must investigate thoroughly before purchase. Recorded mileage of 36,571 miles over an eight-year lifespan equates to an annual average of approximately 4,571 miles, which is considerably below the typical usage profile for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage is generally favourable for major drivetrain components such as the engine and transmission, as wear-related degradation is reduced. However, low annual mileage frequently indicates extended periods of standing, which can lead to its own set of mechanical concerns. Corrosion on brake discs, seized or binding brake calipers, perished rubber components including suspension bushes and coolant hoses, and premature 12-volt battery failure are all classic issues associated with cars that are used only intermittently. The recent history does show some usage continuity, but the figure remains low enough that calendar-based degradation of fluids and seals should be treated as a priority during inspection. Given the recorded defects, the rear axle swivel pins and bushes identified as excessively worn on both sides are a particularly important area to scrutinise. These items form part of the suspension articulation and wheel alignment geometry, and when worn they typically produce clonking or knocking noises over uneven surfaces, vague or wandering steering behaviour, uneven or accelerated tyre wear, and in severe cases visible rear wheel misalignment. It is essential to confirm that this repair has been completed to a satisfactory standard using genuine or quality aftermarket components, as substandard bushes on a torsion beam rear axle can fail again prematurely. On a test drive, listen carefully for any residual knocking from the rear end, particularly over speed bumps, potholes, or during sharp directional changes, and verify that the vehicle tracks straight without steering correction. Additionally, the earlier exhaust leak and emissions failure should be confirmed as resolved, with attention to the integrity of the front pipe, manifold gasket, and any replacement clamps or joints, as residual blowing sounds, ticking under load, or a strong exhaust odour in the cabin would indicate incomplete repair. Beyond the recorded defects, the advisory for nearside front tyre wear warrants immediate attention, as edge wear often points to suspension geometry issues, camber misalignment, or chronic under-inflation, any of which may be connected to the rear axle wear just noted. The front brake pad advisory from 2024 should also be followed up to confirm the pads have since been renewed, and the discs should be inspected for lipping, corrosion, or binding calipers given the low overall mileage, as standing vehicles commonly suffer from surface corrosion that can lead to juddering or ineffective initial braking. Consider also requesting evidence of recent replacement of the timing belt or chain service interval if applicable, the condition and age of the 12-volt battery, the state of coolant and brake fluid which degrade over time regardless of mileage, and verify that the service book contains stamps at appropriate intervals even if annual mileages have been modest. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified independent technician, ideally with the vehicle raised on a ramp, would be strongly advisable given the combination of low mileage, the recorded suspension wear, and the age of the vehicle.