DACIA SANDERO STEPWAY ESSENTIAL TCE2021 · 1.0L PETROL

The Dacia Sandero Stepway presents a clean bill of health on paper. The most recent MOT on 26 September 2025 at 30,926 miles passed with zero defects, indicating no immediate mechanical or structural concerns at that point. The maintenance trend is stable, with no recurring faults or advisories appearing across the available record. This suggests the vehicle has been kept in reasonable running order, at least in terms of the safety-critical items tested. At roughly five years old with 30,926 miles, the annual average sits around 6,185 miles, which is typical for a small petrol hatchback. The mileage progression shows a gap of nearly ten months between the 2024 and 2025 tests, during which the car covered approximately 6,500 miles. That is a modest increase and does not raise concerns about long periods of neglect or sudden high-mileage use. The record is sparse, with only two entries, but both are clean passes, so there is no evidence of repeated failures or ignored defects. Despite the clean MOT history, a buyer should still inspect the underside for corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points and the exhaust system, as these can develop between tests on a car of this age. Front suspension bushes and coil springs deserve a close look, given the Stepway’s slightly raised ride height and the typical wear pattern on uneven surfaces. Brake discs and pads should be measured for thickness, as binding calipers or uneven wear can develop without triggering an MOT failure until they become severe. Tyre condition is worth checking carefully. Even with no advisories recorded, consumable wear items like tread depth and sidewall condition can deteriorate quickly depending on driving style. The turbocharged TCE engine should be inspected for oil leaks around the turbocharger and intercooler piping, and the exhaust emissions should be verified under load to confirm the catalytic converter remains efficient. A short road test will reveal any binding brakes, gearbox stiffness, or suspension knocks that a static inspection might miss.