2012 Ford KA 1.2L Petrol · WN62 WCT

The most recent MOT test on 7 April 2026 resulted in a pass, although three advisories were issued, namely corroded rear coil springs both sides, light oil misting on both front shock absorbers, and a nearside rear brake cable damaged but not to excess. Reviewing the broader DVSA history, the vehicle has demonstrated a relatively consistent pass rate with no retests since the single failure in October 2021, though the number and nature of advisories have increased noticeably in the most recent three tests. Exhaust gas leaks and front brake disc wear have persisted across multiple examinations, suggesting items that have not been rectified between tests and are gradually worsening. The recurrence of brake cable damage on both nearside and offside, the emergence of suspension corrosion and shock absorber seepage, and the prior failure relating to worn upper shock absorber bushes all indicate a chassis and undercarriage that is now showing its age and would benefit from closer inspection prior to purchase. With 107,090 miles recorded on a 2012 Ford Ka, the vehicle has covered approximately 7,649 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and suggests steady rather than arduous use. The MOT intervals show tests in 2019, 2020, 2021 (twice), 2022, 2023, 2025 and 2026, with the mileage progression consistent with regular everyday motoring rather than long periods of standing or extreme high-mileage accumulation. This pattern is mechanically favourable in that it implies regular fluid cycling, brake and tyre wear at expected intervals, and general warm-up of mechanical components. However, the steady accumulation of chassis-related advisories over recent years reflects the natural wear progression of a small city car now approaching its mid-teens, particularly in the suspension, braking and exhaust systems. For a prospective buyer, the recurring brake cable advisories warrant particular attention, as a damaged cable can stretch, corrode internally or fray, leading to uneven brake balance, a handbrake that fails to hold on an incline, or a brake pedal that travels further than expected. The front brake disc pitting and scoring reported in both 2023 and 2025 suggests the discs may now be at or near their wear limit, particularly if not replaced since the 2023 advisory, and on test drive one should listen for brake shudder under heavy application and feel for vibration through the steering wheel. The exhaust gas leak advisories from 2023 and 2025 indicate a joint or section of the system that is degrading, and at idle or under load a buyer should listen for ticking, smell for exhaust fumes inside the cabin, and check for black soot around joint areas when inspecting underneath. The suspension advisories should also be prioritised during a physical inspection. The corroded rear coil springs and the earlier failure on the nearside rear upper shock absorber bush, combined with historic wear on the front wishbone rear bushes from 2020, indicate a suspension system requiring refurbishment. On test drive, listen for clonking or knocking over bumps, particularly from the rear, and check for uneven rear tyre wear which often follows from weakened springs. With the vehicle now fourteen years old, attention should also be given to age-related deterioration not always captured in MOT data, including tyre sidewall perishing and cracking, coolant and brake fluid condition given their calendar-based service intervals, the health of the twelve volt battery, and any binding in the rear calipers given the handbrake cable history. A thorough inspection on a ramp, verification of recent servicing documentation, and ideally an electronic diagnostic scan for any stored fault codes would be prudent before committing to purchase.