Used Ford Ka: Buyer's Guide
Buying a pre-owned Ford Ka delivers compact city car practicality with driving dynamics that impress. Its nimble size makes it perfect for urban roads, yet the interior offers genuine space. Achieving up to 57.7 mpg, this used Ka is a sensible choice for drivers seeking low running costs and everyday usability.
Used Ford Ka Popular Trims
| Trim Level |
Details |
| Studio |
The Essentials: A simple and honest start. It offers the freedom of mobility in a package that's easy to live with and maintain, keeping price and insurance costs to an absolute minimum. |
| Zetec |
The Sweet Spot: The sensible middle ground. It adds crucial features like air conditioning, alloy wheels, and the brilliant Quickclear heated windscreen, offering better value for a small price increase. |
| Titanium |
The Premium Choice: The luxury option. It includes climate control and advanced audio features, providing a touch more comfort without compromising the car's budget-friendly nature. |
Used Ford Ka Popular Battery & Drivetrain Options
| Engine |
Details |
| 1.2L Petrol |
The City Specialist: A peppy and willing partner. It offers 69 HP and is perfectly suited for town driving, with a simple design that keeps maintenance costs low. |
| 1.2L Ti-VCT |
The Refined All-Rounder: Smooth and refined. Available with more power in the Ka+, it improves efficiency and refinement, making highway trips quieter and more relaxed. |
Running Costs:
- Real-World MPG: Enjoy efficient journeys with around 38.6 mpg, keeping your fuel stops infrequent.
Used Ford Ka Practicality
The Ford Ka makes intelligent use of its compact footprint to maximise usable space.
- Boot Capacity: The Ka+ offers a generous 270 litres of luggage capacity, expanding significantly with rear seats folded.
- Rear Space: The Ka+ offers class-leading rear legroom, so your passengers can travel in comfort.
- Dimensions: At just 3929 mm long (Ka+), it fits into the tightest parking spots with ease.
- Storage: The cabin features 21 separate storage spaces, ensuring a place for every essential item.
Used Ford Ka Key Features
Key Features:
- MyFord Dock: A dashboard mount that securely holds and charges your smartphone for navigation.
- Ford SYNC: Voice control lets you choose the soundtrack to your drive without lifting a finger.
- Speed Limiter: A standard feature on the Ka+ that helps you stay within legal limits in the city.
Desirable Options:
- City Pack: Adds rear parking sensors and power-folding mirrors to make city living effortless.
- Heated Seats: Available on select models to keep you toasty warm on winter drives.
Used Ford Ka Reliability Rating
The Ford Ka is built on proven mechanicals, offering a dependable ownership experience with minimal fuss.
What to Check on a Test Drive:
- Gearbox: Check that the gear changes are smooth and the clutch engages without slipping.
- Suspension: Listen for any knocks or rattles from the suspension over speed bumps.
- Electronics: Test all windows, lights, and the audio system to ensure they function correctly.
Used Ford Ka Safety Rating
The Ford Ka+ offers a solid safety package for its class.
- Euro NCAP: The Ka+ was tested in 2017 and offers good adult occupant protection.
- Key Tech: Features like Electronic Stability Control help keep you safe in tricky conditions.
- Occupant Protection: Six airbags and a rigid safety cell ensure high levels of passive safety.
Awards for the Used Ford Ka
- Value Champion: Frequently cited in budget car reviews for its low cost of ownership.
- Commended City Car: Praised for its ability to carry four adults in comfort.
Who is the Used Ford Ka Best For?
- New Drivers: Low insurance groups and easy handling make it an ideal first car.
- City Commuters: Compact size and light steering remove the stress from urban traffic.
- Budget Buyers: Low tax, fuel, and maintenance costs keep more money in your pocket.
Key Alternatives to Consider:
- Hyundai i10: Offers a slightly more modern interior and a long warranty.
- Volkswagen Up!: Provides a more premium feel but often at a higher price point.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Used Ford Ka
How affordable are the daily running costs for a used Ford Ka?
The Ford Ka is designed to offer competitive running costs that appeal to budget-conscious drivers.
- Fuel Economy: The 1.2L petrol engine achieves an official NEDC figure of 57.7 mpg, with real-world estimates around 38.6 mpg.
- Insurance: Insurance groups range from 2 to 5, placing the Ka among the most cost-effective vehicles to insure.
Why is the used Ford Ka considered an excellent city car choice?
The Ford Ka excels in urban environments thanks to its compact dimensions and agile handling characteristics.
- Dimensions: With a length of just 3620 mm (Ka) or 3929 mm (Ka+), it fits easily into tight parking spaces.
- Manoeuvrability: The electric power-assisted steering is light and responsive, making city driving effortless.
- Visibility: Large side mirrors and a supportive driving position provide excellent all-round visibility for navigating traffic.
How does the Ford Ka suspension perform on rougher road surfaces?
The suspension setup in the Ford Ka is tuned to deliver a composed and comfortable ride quality.
- Ride Quality: The suspension effectively absorbs bumps, providing a ride described as first rate for a city car.
- Stability: A rear anti-roll bar enhances stability, ensuring the car remains composed on uneven surfaces.
- Comfort: Despite its small size, the ride is noted as being comfortable and sophisticated, smoothing out road imperfections.
Does the Ford Ka Zetec model feature Bluetooth and SYNC connectivity?
Yes, the Zetec trim level includes advanced connectivity features to enhance your driving experience.
- Ford SYNC: This system allows for voice control of music and calls, keeping your hands on the wheel.
- Bluetooth: Standard Bluetooth connectivity enables seamless audio streaming and hands-free calling.
- Infotainment: Zetec models also feature a 4.2-inch display and DAB radio for improved entertainment options.
How does the MyFord Dock system work in the Ford Ka?
The MyFord Dock is a clever storage solution designed to integrate your smartphone directly into the dashboard.
- Mounting: It features a secure mount on the dashboard top to hold your device in clear view.
- Charging: The dock includes a USB port and a 12V socket to keep your device charged while driving.
- Navigation: This setup allows you to use your phone's navigation apps safely and conveniently.
Does the Ford Ka feature the Quickclear heated windscreen technology?
Many Ford Ka models are equipped with the Quickclear heated windscreen, a valuable feature for winter mornings.
- Function: The system uses ultra-thin heating elements to clear ice and mist in seconds.
- Availability: This feature is commonly found on Zetec and higher trim levels.
- Convenience: It eliminates the need for manual scraping, saving time and effort in cold weather.
How easy is it to install child seats in a Ford Ka?
Installing child seats in a Ford Ka is straightforward, particularly in the five-door Ka+ model.
- ISOFIX Points: Rear seats are equipped with ISOFIX mounting points for secure child seat attachment.
- Airbag Deactivation: The front passenger airbag can be deactivated to safely accommodate a rearward-facing child seat.
- Access: The five-door layout of the Ka+ provides wide door openings for easier access to the rear seats.
What type of service history is recommended for a used Ford Ka?
A comprehensive service history is key to maintaining the reliability and performance of a used Ford Ka.
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure the vehicle has been serviced according to the manufacturer's schedule, typically every 12 months or 12,500 miles.
- Fluid Checks: Verify that oil, coolant, and brake fluid changes have been documented.
- Wear Items: Check records for replacements of tyres, brake pads, and timing belts at appropriate intervals.
How does the Ford Ka steering feel during urban driving maneuvers?
The steering in the Ford Ka is specifically calibrated to be light and precise for city driving.
- Assistance: Electric power-assisted steering reduces effort at low speeds, perfect for parking.
- Responsiveness: The steering offers a nippy and vital feel, allowing for quick direction changes in traffic.
- Feedback: It provides enough feedback to feel connected to the road without being heavy or tiring.
