2004 Ford Ka

The 2004 Ford Ka is a small, city car known for its compact size, nimble handling, and fuel efficiency. It was available with a 1.3L Duratec petrol engine producing approximately 69 horsepower and 77 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option. Owners often appreciate the Ka’s ease of parking and maneuverability in urban environments, as well as its relatively low running costs. However, some common complaints include limited rear passenger space, basic interior appointments, and susceptibility to rust.

Engine

1.3L Duratec Petrol

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty gasket or seal is the typical solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are prone to developing due to hose degradation and water pump failures. Overheating is a common symptom of these leaks.
  • Solution: Replace hoses or water pump as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Stiff or Difficult Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners sometimes report difficulty shifting gears, particularly into first or reverse. This can be due to worn synchros, a sticky shift linkage, or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission fluid, lubricating the shift linkage, or rebuilding/replacing the transmission are potential solutions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Due to its age, the 2004 Ford Ka is prone to worn suspension components such as shocks, struts, and bushings. This can lead to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Central Locking System
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the central locking system are reported, with doors failing to lock or unlock remotely or with the key.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the wiring and replacing any faulty actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster can experience failures, with gauges not functioning properly or warning lights illuminating intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust is a very common issue on the 2004 Ford Ka, especially in areas prone to road salt. Common rust locations include the wheel arches, door sills, and floor pan.
  • Solution: Rust repair, including cutting out rusted sections and welding in new metal, followed by painting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Broken Seat Adjustment Levers
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic seat adjustment levers can break, making it difficult to adjust the seat position.
  • Solution: Replacing the broken lever.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Ford Ka, while a practical and economical city car, is prone to several issues due to its age. Rust is a significant concern, particularly in regions with road salt. Mechanical issues, such as oil and coolant leaks, and electrical problems with the central locking and instrument cluster are also frequently reported. The cost of repairs can vary greatly depending on the severity and nature of the problem, but rust repair and transmission work can be particularly expensive. Buyers should carefully inspect potential purchases for rust and be prepared for potential repairs associated with aging components.