2016 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · RF66 LRV

The 2016 Ford Ka’s most recent MOT test on 2025-11-25 was passed with no recorded defects, marking a stable maintenance record over the past two years. While earlier advisories—particularly concerning brake disc wear and tyre condition—have been consistently present since 2021, they have not progressed to fail grade levels, suggesting either controlled usage patterns or effective maintenance interventions. The absence of failures in the last two tests indicates a positive trend, though the recurring advisories warrant careful attention to prevent escalation, especially given the vehicle’s age and the potential for cumulative wear on critical components. The recorded mileage of 35,972 miles for a ten-year-old car represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of approximately 3,597 miles per year, far below the typical 10,000–15,000 miles annually expected for such a vehicle. This suggests either infrequent operation, long periods of stationary use, or a vehicle maintained in a non-driving state. While low mileage can reduce wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluids, it also raises concerns about standing-related issues such as corrosion, particularly on brake components, suspension linkages, and the exhaust system. The advisories from previous MOTs—especially those related to rear tyre damage and front brake disc wear—may have been exacerbated by prolonged idling, leading to uneven or accelerated degradation. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the brake system and tyres, given the recurring advisories. The brake discs, particularly the front inner discs, show signs of wear but are not yet severely compromised. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal response, shuddering or pulsation while braking, or signs of excessive heat buildup near the discs. Check for any binding or grinding noises when applying the brakes, which could indicate warping or warped discs, and verify that the discs are free of deep grooves or cracks that might compromise stopping performance. Additionally, inspect the brake fluid level and condition, as standing fluid can degrade over time, leading to moisture ingress and potential failure. The tyres, while not yet failing, exhibit signs of damage and wear that warrant immediate attention. The rear tyres show slight cracking or perishing, which could indicate age-related sidewall deterioration, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. On a visual inspection, look for any cracks, bulges, or signs of dry rot along the sidewall, as these can compromise tyre integrity and increase the risk of sudden failure. Given the low annual mileage, the tyres may also be underinflated or have uneven wear patterns due to prolonged standing, which can lead to accelerated sidewall damage. Test the vehicle’s handling and alignment to ensure the tyres are not excessively worn on one side, which could suggest misalignment or suspension issues. Finally, address the nail in the near-side rear tyre promptly, as punctures of this nature can lead to rapid air loss and further tyre damage if not repaired. For the remaining components, check the vehicle’s service history for any missed fluid servicing, particularly for the engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, as these should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations—typically every 60,000–100,000 miles or every two years, whichever comes first. Additionally, verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or reduced capacity, and inspect for signs of corrosion on the terminals and battery mounts. Lastly, examine the exhaust system for signs of rust or structural integrity, as standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to corrosion in this area, which could lead to leaks or emissions issues.