2022 Dacia Duster 1.3L Petrol · LV22 XRN

The most recent DVSA examination on 2026-07-29 records a pass with no defects, which is reassuring following an immediate prior failure on the same date for an ineffective nearside wiper. That failure was corrected on site and the vehicle subsequently passed, suggesting a minor rectification rather than a systemic concern. Looking back over the available history, the test pattern does show some inconsistency. The 2025 cycle included three entries: an initial fail with a dangerous offside front tyre and major nearside headlamp aim issues, followed shortly by a clean pass on 02 August 2025. The presence of multiple failures within a short timeframe, particularly one categorised as dangerous, indicates that maintenance discipline may have lapsed before the vehicle was presented for retest, although the timely replacement of the defective components is a positive sign that the items were addressed promptly. The recorded mileage of 33,915 against a four-year age equates to roughly 8,479 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this type and age and suggests consistent rather than extreme use. There are no obvious gaps between MOT entries that would imply extended periods of standing, which is favourable because long idle periods commonly accelerate corrosion of brake discs, binding of calipers, and degradation of tyres through sidewall perishing. The mileage accumulation pattern points to normal consumption of service items such as brake friction material, tyres, and ancillary drive components, and there is no evidence of the very high annual mileage that would significantly shorten the working life of suspension bushes, coil springs, and clutch or transmission components. Reviewing the recorded defects in detail, the front tyre issues flagged in 2025 warrant close attention. Both front tyres were highlighted at the same test, with the offside tyre reaching dangerous condition with ply or cords exposed and the nearside showing edge wear close to the legal limit. On a physical inspection, confirm the current age and condition of all four tyres, checking for uneven shoulder wear across the axle which could indicate worn suspension bushes, incorrect tracking, or weakened coil springs. The advisory regarding the nearside rear tread cut should be examined to ensure it has been replaced rather than repaired, as any bulging or slow deflation would be a serious safety concern. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking over uneven surfaces, which could point to degraded anti-roll bar links, drop links, or wishbone bushes, and pay attention to steering precision, as vague or wandering behaviour might suggest worn front suspension components. The headlamp aim defect recorded twice in 2025 is worth verifying, particularly if the headlamp units have been disturbed or replaced. Check that both beams are correctly aligned and that there is no condensation within the lamp units, which can indicate failed sealing. The advisory noting pitted and scored front brake discs should be confirmed by physical inspection; light surface corrosion is common but deep scoring or lipping will necessitate replacement. On test, listen for any brake shudder through the steering wheel under firm application and check that the vehicle pulls straight under heavy braking, which would indicate disc warping or a binding caliper. Finally, although the most recent test was unblemished, ensure that routine time-based servicing has been performed, including replacement of engine oil and filter, brake fluid renewal every two years irrespective of mileage, coolant inspection, and verification of the 12V battery condition, which on a four-year-old vehicle is approaching the typical end of its service life. Confirm the presence of a stamped service book and cross-reference the documented maintenance intervals with the recorded MOT mileage for consistency.