IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2013 Dacia Sandero (Mk2)

The Sandero Mk2 launched in the UK in 2013 as the brand's breakthrough model, offering modern motoring at an unbeatable price. Early cars had thinner undersealing that led to premature rust on sills and arches, and the 0.9 TCe engine can suffer hesitation when cold. A well-maintained example remains excellent value.

What changed for 2013

  • •UK launch of the Sandero Mk2
  • •0.9 TCe turbo petrol and 1.5 dCi diesel
  • •Thin factory undersealing prone to UK salt corrosion
  • •Manual and automatic options available

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Bodywork corrosion on sills and inner arches (pre-2016)
  • !0.9 TCe hesitation and jerkiness when cold
  • !Rear brake cylinder leaks contaminating shoes
3
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Bodywork Corrosion (Early Models)

ModerateBodywork & Rust

Early Sandero Mk2s had thinner undersealing, leading to surface rust on sills, seams, and inner wheel arches on UK salted roads.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£900
Warning Signs:

Bubbling paint around wheel arches, Rust staining on sill seams

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the underside and inner rear arches carefully
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Rear Brake Cylinder Leaks

ModerateBrakes

The rear drum brake wheel cylinders can start weeping fluid, which contaminates the brake shoes and reduces efficiency.

Est. Repair Cost: £150–£350
Warning Signs:

Soft brake pedal, Low brake fluid level, Dampness inside the rear drums

What to Inspect:
  • Check backplates for fluid marks
  • Review MOT history for brake imbalance
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

0.9 TCe Hesitation and Jerkiness

MinorEngine

The 0.9 TCe turbo petrol is known for a jerky power delivery, particularly when cold. This is often caused by software calibration or ignition coil-pack issues.

Est. Repair Cost: £120–£400
Warning Signs:

Jerky acceleration, Hesitation when pulling away, Engine management light (misfire)

What to Inspect:
  • Drive uphill in a high gear
  • Check for stored ignition codes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2013 Dacia Sandero (Mk2)

  • Inspect the underside and inner rear arches carefully for rust
  • Drive the 0.9 TCe uphill in a high gear to check for flat spots and hesitation
  • Check the clutch action — a heavy pedal suggests replacement is needed