2018 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · R66 RAE

The defining mechanical story of this 2018 Ford Ka is a persistent pattern of front-end steering and suspension advisories that have surfaced repeatedly across multiple consecutive MOT tests. The most recent examination on 18 March 2026 passed but recorded three advisories, continuing a trend visible in every test since 2022. Anti-roll bar linkage ball joint play was flagged on both nearside and offside fronts, joining a longstanding nearside front track rod end ball joint that has shown slight play in 2022, 2023, and 2024. A nearside front brake disc worn, pitted or scored was also noted in the latest test, alongside fluctuating service brake performance observed at both nearside front wheels in 2023 and 2024. Although none of these items have yet progressed to failure, the recurrence of the same steering components over four consecutive tests indicates progressive wear rather than transient condition, and a prospective buyer should treat the front suspension and braking as the primary area requiring scrutiny and likely near-term spend. Mileage of 53,403 miles over an eight-year life equates to roughly 6,675 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical range for a vehicle of this age and segment. There are no gaps in annual testing recorded in the provided DVSA history, with passes documented for 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026, suggesting continuous use on the road rather than extended storage. At this moderate accumulation rate, the engine, manual transmission, and clutch components are unlikely to have suffered excessive wear, though the consistent urban or short-journey pattern often associated with low annual mileage can accelerate corrosion of underbody components and brake disc surface degradation, both of which are consistent with the advisories recorded. Given the recurrence of front suspension wear, a physical inspection should focus on the anti-roll bar drop links, their rubber bushes, and the track rod ends for any visible cracking, perished bush material, or excessive lateral movement when the wheels are rocked by hand. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would suggest the bar link ball joints have worn beyond the slight play noted at MOT. Steering should feel precise with no vagueness, wandering, or uneven self-centring, and any clonking when turning at low speed or over rough tarmac would warrant immediate attention. The track rod end play previously recorded on the nearside front has now apparently resolved, possibly through replacement, and confirmation of any recent steering component renewal with the seller would be worthwhile. The braking system warrants equal attention. The pitted and scored nearside front brake disc flagged in the 2026 test, combined with the fluctuating service brake performance on the same side in two prior tests, points to possible disc warping, uneven pad wear, or a binding caliper. During a test drive, the brake pedal should feel firm and progressive without any judder or vibration through the steering wheel under firm application, and the car should pull up in a straight line without steering pull to either side. Cold-start behaviour, any illuminated dashboard warning lights, and the condition of the brake fluid should also be checked. While the MOT record contains no failures and the vehicle has clearly remained roadworthy throughout its tested life, the density of repeated advisories on the front suspension and braking assemblies means a buyer should budget for replacement of anti-roll bar linkages and likely a nearside front brake disc and pad set in the near term.