2015 Dacia Duster 1.5L Diesel · SJ15 PHV

The most recent MOT, dated 24 July 2026, resulted in a failure and recorded three major defects together with a major parking‑brake inefficiency. This represents a clear deterioration from the preceding three years, during which the vehicle passed its annual test with only a minor advisory on the nearside front suspension arm ball joint in 2024 and no recorded faults in 2025 and 2023. The emergence of multiple major items in a single inspection suggests that wear on the suspension and steering components has accelerated and that any previous maintenance may have been deferred or insufficient. With 143 758 mi logged on a 2015 Dacia Duster, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 13 000 mi per year. That figure is above the typical 10 000 mi benchmark for a vehicle of this age, indicating a relatively high usage rate. The higher mileage, combined with the age of the car, means that wear items such as bushings, ball joints, wheel bearings and brake components are likely to be approaching the end of their service life. It also raises the probability of internal engine and transmission wear, especially if the vehicle has been driven predominantly on high‑speed motorways where oil degradation can be accelerated. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the nearside track‑rod end ball joint and the nearside front suspension arm ball joint, both of which were flagged as having excessive play and wear. On a test drive these joints may manifest as a loose or vague steering feel, clunking noises when turning the wheel at low speed, or a tendency for the front wheels to wander under braking. Inspection should include a visual check of the joint boots for cracks or leaking grease, a firm shake of the wheel at the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions to confirm any play, and a thorough examination of the surrounding suspension bushes for corrosion or cracking. The rear offside wheel bearing, described as rough when rotated, will typically produce a humming or grinding noise that intensifies with vehicle speed and may be felt as vibration through the chassis; a mechanic should spin the wheel by hand to feel for roughness and check for any play in the hub assembly. The parking‑brake inefficiency suggests either worn shoes, an out‑of‑adjustment, or a failing cable; the brake pedal should be tested for a firm hold when the parking brake is applied, and the rear drums or discs inspected for uneven wear or glazing. In addition to addressing the identified faults, the buyer should perform age‑related checks irrespective of the MOT findings. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot and tread depth, as rubber can deteriorate even on low‑mileage cars that have spent long periods stationary. Verify the condition of the 12 V battery, looking for swollen cases or excessive corrosion on the terminals, and consider a load test given the vehicle’s age. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and ensure the calipers move freely without sticking, as corrosion can cause uneven braking or shudder. Finally, confirm that the service history includes regular oil and filter changes, coolant flushes and timing‑belt or chain inspection (if applicable), because time‑based fluid degradation can lead to premature wear of internal engine components even when mileage appears modest. Addressing these points will give a realistic picture of the Duster’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it back to a reliable, safe condition.