2014 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · RE14 MPZ

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 9 June 2026, though this followed a failure involving critical front suspension components. When reviewing the overall maintenance trend, the vehicle appears to be entering a phase of increased wear. While the car enjoyed several clean passes between 2021 and 2025, the most recent failure regarding anti-roll bar linkage dust covers and a worn Macpherson strut bush indicates that the front-end suspension is now deteriorating. This suggests that the vehicle is reaching a milestone where age-related rubber degradation is becoming a primary concern. With a recorded mileage of 66,497 miles over approximately 12 years, this Ford Ka has averaged roughly 5,541 miles per year. This is considerably lower than the typical UK annual average, suggesting the vehicle has been used for short urban trips or has experienced periods of prolonged inactivity. While low mileage generally reduces the wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can introduce specific risks associated with standing, such as the perishing of rubber seals and the accumulation of moisture in the braking system. The recent failures regarding the anti-roll bar linkage and Macpherson strut bush are of particular mechanical significance. Although these were rectified to achieve a pass, they signal a general decline in the integrity of the front suspension. During a test drive, the buyer should listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven road surfaces or during low-speed cornering. Furthermore, the advisory regarding front tyres worn close to the legal limit necessitates an immediate inspection of the tread depth. Check for uneven wear patterns across the tyre width, as this often indicates that the recent suspension repairs require a professional wheel alignment to prevent premature tyre failure. Given the vehicle's age and low annual usage, a comprehensive physical inspection is required. Examine the tyre sidewalls for fine cracking or perishing, as rubber degrades over time regardless of the miles covered. Inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or evidence of binding calipers, which is common in vehicles that spend long periods stationary. It is also vital to verify the service history to ensure that engine oil and other fluids have been changed based on calendar intervals rather than mileage alone, as degraded oil can lead to internal engine sludge. Finally, check the 12V battery health and ensure the handbrake has sufficient reserve travel, as this was previously flagged as a point of concern.