2012 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · SA12 XFX

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance trend that is worsening, as evidenced by the most recent MOT test on 29 November 2025 at 74,751 miles. While the car passed after a failure on that date, the tester flagged significant issues including corrosion on various steering, braking, and suspension components, a weak offside rear handbrake, and an exhaust gas leak. The presence of fumes in the engine bay and active oil leaks suggests that mechanical issues are becoming more complex and potentially more expensive to rectify. The recorded mileage of 74,751 miles over approximately 14 years indicates a low annual average of roughly 5,339 miles. This pattern of light use is consistent with the data, showing a steady but slow increase in distance between tests. However, the low mileage has not prevented significant deterioration. The transition from a clean pass in November 2021 at 53,402 miles to the increasingly heavy list of advisories and failures in the subsequent four years suggests that the vehicle may be suffering from age-related degradation or neglect during periods of inactivity. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the underside to assess the extent of the corrosion. The record shows a persistent history of suspension issues, with multiple failures regarding corroded coil springs and Macpherson struts between 2023 and 2024. The tester specifically noted seriously weakened axle/spring seats in December 2024, which indicates a risk to structural integrity. The recurring problems with the braking system, specifically the parking brake efficiency and weak handbrake, also require immediate attention to ensure the vehicle meets safety standards. Beyond the suspension, the engine bay requires close scrutiny due to the reported oil leaks and exhaust fumes. The recent failure regarding a missing steering rack gaiter on 29 November 2025 implies that dirt ingress could soon lead to steering rack failure. Furthermore, the distorted offside front road wheel noted in the most recent test suggests potential impact damage or significant rim fatigue. Given the history of exhaust leaks and component corrosion, a professional inspection of the entire exhaust system and all chassis mounting points is essential.