2009 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · RO59 VJM

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 21 October 2025 with no defects recorded, which represents a return to compliance following the previous year's troubled outcome. The overall maintenance picture, however, is best read as mixed rather than stable. Between 2019 and 2023, the Ford Ka passed seven consecutive tests with no advisories whatsoever, suggesting a period of sound mechanical upkeep. The 2024 test cycle then disrupted this pattern: the vehicle initially failed on 29 October 2024 with a dangerous nearside front tyre structural separation, a major offside rear service brake binding issue, and an advisory regarding exhaust corrosion, before passing the following day once the dangerous defect had been addressed and the binding issue presumably rectified. An advisory for excessive exhaust corrosion was carried forward into the pass. The 2025 clean pass is encouraging and suggests that the braking and tyre concerns have been resolved, but the exhaust advisory having been repeated across consecutive tests indicates an ongoing deterioration that will ultimately require replacement. With a recorded mileage of 52,133 miles over approximately seventeen years, this Ka averages around 3,067 miles per year, which is notably low for its age and class. Such modest annual usage typically reflects either a secondary or urban-only vehicle, or extended periods of standing between infrequent journeys. While low odometer readings reduce wear on major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch, and transmission, they introduce their own risks. Internal engine oil seals, valve stem seals, and gaskets can dry out and weep when a vehicle is rarely run, leading to oil leaks or blue smoke on start-up after long idle spells. The relatively low mileage therefore warrants a careful inspection for standing-related deterioration rather than assuming the powertrain is in peak condition. Given the age and the documented history, particular attention should be paid to several areas during a physical inspection and test drive. The advisory exhaust corrosion recorded in both 2024 tests is highly relevant on a 2009 vehicle: exhaust systems on cars of this age frequently suffer internal and external corrosion, and a replacement cat-back or full exhaust may soon be required, particularly if the system rattles on start-up, emits excessive noise, or shows visible holing at the rear silencer or joints. On a test drive, listen for any clonks or knocks from the front suspension over bumps, as worn suspension bushes, top mounts, and anti-roll bar drop links are common age-related failures on the Ka and are often not flagged at MOT until wear becomes pronounced. Uneven or inner-edge tyre wear, steering vagueness, or vibration through the wheel may also indicate worn wishbone bushes or front strut deterioration. Check that the rear brakes release cleanly without dragging or pulling to one side, given the binding issue recorded in 2024, and confirm the caliper slide pins and handbrake mechanism operate freely. Beyond the items highlighted in the MOT history, a prospective buyer should perform several age-and-mileage-appropriate checks prior to purchase. Inspect all four tyres closely for perishing or sidewall cracking caused by age rather than wear, as old tyres can become unsafe even with adequate tread depth; check the production date on the sidewall and consider replacement if the tyres are over six years old. Examine the 12-volt battery, which on a seventeen-year-old car is almost certainly due for renewal, and verify that the vehicle starts readily without excessive cranking. Inspect beneath the bonnet for signs of oil or coolant leakage from ageing gaskets and hoses, and check the condition of the coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, as these degrade on a calendar basis and should have been changed regardless of mileage. Finally, confirm the service history stamps align with the recorded mileage, verify the timing belt or chain replacement interval has been observed, and look for evidence of corrosion around the wheel arches, sills, and suspension mounting points, which are common rot areas on vehicles of this vintage standing outdoors for prolonged periods.