2016 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · SN66 MMU

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 March 2026, was passed but recorded three advisories – slight play on the nearside track‑rod end ball joint, slight play on the nearside front anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint and a non‑excessive oil leak. This follows a failure on the previous day for a fractured off‑side front coil spring, excessive wear on the off‑side anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint and an out‑of‑adjustment headlamp aim. Earlier years show a pattern of intermittent failures – parking‑brake efficiency in 2025, tyre‑wear advisories and a track‑rod failure in 2023 – interspersed with clean passes. The record suggests that the vehicle has required targeted remedial work on its suspension and braking components, but the most recent pass indicates those particular faults have been addressed, pointing to a stabilising maintenance trend rather than a worsening one. At ten years old the Ford Ka has logged only 24 251 miles, an average of roughly 2 400 miles per annum. Such low utilisation is well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 000 miles a year and usually implies lighter wear on drivetrain and brake wear parts. However, the low mileage also hints at prolonged periods of inactivity, which can accelerate rubber hardening, battery sulphation and corrosion of metal components. The modest annual mileage means that wear on consumables such as tyres and brake discs may be more a function of age than distance, and any hidden corrosion on suspension bushings or chassis members could be more pronounced than mileage alone would suggest. Prospective buyers should concentrate on the suspension and steering assemblies that have featured repeatedly in the MOT notes. Inspect the nearside and off‑side track‑rod ends and both anti‑roll bar linkages for any perceptible play by rocking the front wheels while the car is lifted; listen for clunking or knocking over bumps, which would indicate worn ball joints or deteriorating bushings. Verify that the off‑side front coil spring is intact, with no cracks, broken coils or sagging ride height, and check the chassis for any signs of cracked or corroded spring mounts. The oil leak noted in the latest advisory should be traced – a small seep from the valve cover or oil filter housing is common, but any steady drip could lead to oil‑level loss or fire risk, so confirm that the oil level is correct and that there are no oil stains on the under‑tray. Examine the brake system for the previously flagged front disc pitting; look for uneven disc thickness, scoring or excessive rust, and test for pedal feel – a spongy or pulsating pedal may reveal warped discs or contaminated pads. Ensure the parking brake now holds firmly, as the 2025 failure suggests the mechanism may have been repaired but could still be marginal. Given the vehicle’s age and limited use, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or chalky texture is essential, even if tread depth appears adequate. Check the 12‑volt battery for voltage above 12.6 V at rest and a healthy cranking response; an old battery left idle can suffer sulphation and may need replacement. Look for corrosion on wheel bearings, suspension mounting points and the under‑carriage, especially around the exhaust and brake lines, as standing can promote rust that may later affect steering geometry or brake performance. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil, filter and coolant changes at appropriate intervals – time‑based fluid degradation can be as detrimental as mileage‑based wear, and fresh fluids will help mitigate the risk of the minor oil leak developing into a more serious issue.