2012 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · PX12 XOV

A recurring pattern of fluid leaks and suspension wear defines the mechanical profile of this vehicle, despite its successful pass on 4 November 2025. The MOT history shows a trend of escalating advisories regarding fluid integrity and component degradation, moving from minor exhaust and tyre issues in earlier years to more specific concerns regarding oil and coolant leaks in the most recent 2025 inspections. While the latest test recorded no defects, the presence of multiple advisories in May 2025—specifically involving coolant, oil, and shock absorber misting—indicates that the vehicle has recently dealt with several developing mechanical issues that require close monitoring. The recorded mileage of 98,121 miles over approximately 14 years equates to an average annual usage of roughly 7,000 miles. This represents a typical usage pattern for a small city car of this age, suggesting the vehicle has not been subjected to excessive motorway mileage but has been used consistently enough to warrant regular component replacement. This level of mileage means that while the drivetrain may not have extreme wear, consumable items such as suspension bushes, shock absorbers, and tyres are reaching the end of their expected service life, which is consistent with the advisory history. Prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the fluid management systems and the suspension setup during a physical inspection and test drive. The 2025 advisories for oil and coolant leaks, alongside nearside front shock absorber misting, necessitate a thorough check of the engine bay for active drips and a visual inspection of the cooling system hoses and connections. On a test drive, listen for any rhythmic knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces, which could indicate that the previously flagged worn shock absorber bushes or the misting dampers have degraded further. Tyre condition and exhaust integrity also warrant scrutiny. Previous records have frequently flagged tyres as being worn close to the legal limit or showing signs of perishing, so the tread depth and sidewall condition should be verified against the current legal requirements. Furthermore, given the history of exhaust silencer looseness and flexi-joint deterioration, listen for excessive engine drone, rattling, or changes in exhaust note during acceleration, as these can be symptoms of structural weakness in the exhaust system.