An independent value score for the Ford Ka (1996–2021) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Every figure on this Ford Ka (1996–2021) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.
The Ford Ka (1996–2021) is powered by a 1.5i (128 Hp) Automatic engine. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.
The transmission module detected a fault — check separate transmission codes.
Related codes: P0700
Misfire / Loss of cylinderMODERATE
Rough running, idle vibration, power loss.
Related codes: P0300
Thermostat: coolant temperature lowLOW
Thermostat stuck open — engine does not reach operating temperature.
Related codes: P0128
Battery/system voltage lowLOW
System voltage below 10V — check alternator, battery or wiring.
Related codes: P0562
P0011LOW
Check with an OBD2 scanner.
Related codes: P0011
💰 AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS
Prices may vary by area and workshop.
🔧
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
🛑
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
⚡
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
📊
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
💵 WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY
Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.
🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
📋 RECALLS & TSB (3)
NHTSA R/2002/085
Front Brake Hose Retention
Date: 22-07-2002
There is a possibility that the front brake hose might foul and rub on the front wheel rim which might lead to a brake fluid leak and a possible loss in braking performance.
NHTSA R/2009/019
Risk Of Rear Brake Lockup
Date: 17-02-2009
It has been identified that the rear brake back plate bolts may not have been tightened to the specified torque. Should a back plate bolt fall into the brake drum damage to the brake linings and or wheel lockup could occur.
NHTSA R/2015/062
Driver Seatbelt Latch May Fail In The Event Of A Frontal Collision
Date: 12-05-2015
The rear seat belt buckle (catch) could be defective. In the event of a frontal impact a defective buckle could fail causing the rear seat occupant to be unrestrained by the seat belt.
Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Ford Ka (1996–2021)?
Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.
How often should the Ford Ka (1996–2021) be serviced?
Routine maintenance for the Ford Ka (1996–2021) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.
Have a specific fault code on your Ford Ka (1996–2021)? Search the code in the OBD2 section of this page or use the full TroubleAtlas DTC database. Need tyres? Compare prices and compatible sizes in the TroubleAtlas comparator.
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