1998 Ford Ka 2 review from UK and Ireland

Various bits of the suspension have had to be changed.

Passenger door leaks after it was replaced following a break-in.

Rear windscreen washer gave up.

Speaker in driver's door works intermittently.

Some rust patches appearing.

I bought the Ka as a more economical form of transport after I wrote off my 1.6 Fiesta. I needed something reliable as my daily commute is around 90 miles, including motorway and country lanes.

The Ka has proved to be brilliant and reliable. It's got a poky little engine and holds on well round corners. The only time it let me down was when the brake pads fell apart meaning the car wouldn't move, but this was down to a fault with the pads rather than the car itself.

I kind of expect suspension problems because of the speed bumps around where I live and it is getting on a bit now. The most annoying thing has been the leaking door which was never right after it was replaced, but of course it didn't rain and show the fault until it was much too late to take it back.

I partly chose Ford because I have problems with my back and I find the seats which Ford fit to be really comfortable and supportive. With the fully adjustable seat in the Ka 2 it is possible to get just the right position.

All in all the car has been great. Although it is still going strong the mileage is very high now and it must be getting towards needing some serious work so I've just replaced it with a Ka Collection. I hope my good experience will continue!