2022 Dacia Sandero Sway Prestige TCE CVT 1.0L Petrol · SO22 AFF

The 2022 Dacia Sandero Sway Prestige TCe CVT was most recently presented for its official MOT on 3 June 2026 and was passed with no defects or advisories recorded by the DVSA examiner. The prior test on 14 July 2025 also resulted in a clean pass with no advisories, meaning the vehicle has a fully unblemished MOT record across both examinations documented since the three-year point. A clean pass on both occasions is a positive indicator that the car has been maintained to at least the minimum statutory roadworthiness standard, and the absence of advisories suggests that the examiner did not identify any components nearing the failure threshold. Based purely on the recorded test history, the maintenance trend is stable and consistent, with no evidence of worsening condition or recurring issues. Turning to the recorded mileage of 12,507 miles over approximately four years, this equates to an average annual usage of roughly 3,127 miles, which is considerably below the typical mileage for a vehicle of this age and segment. Such low usage is characteristic of a second car, a primarily urban runabout, or a vehicle that has spent extended periods standing. From a mechanical standpoint, low annual mileage is a mixed indicator: while it suggests reduced wear on high-contact components such as the clutch, gearbox, brake friction material, and engine internals, it also heightens the risk of degradation through disuse. Standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to brake disc corrosion, seized or binding calipers, perished rubber components, and 12-volt battery failure. For a prospective buyer conducting a physical inspection, particular attention should be given to the areas most affected by low-mileage, age-related deterioration. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds degrade with calendar age regardless of tread depth, and a four-year-old car may require replacement on age grounds alone if any crazing is visible. The brake discs should be inspected for surface rust and any lipping on the outer edges, and the calipers should be checked to ensure they are sliding freely without binding, which is a common issue on infrequently used vehicles. The 12-volt battery is another priority item, as batteries that have sat partially discharged through infrequent use often fail without warning; a load test or printout from a diagnostic tool would provide reassurance. All fluid condition and service history should be verified, including engine oil, brake fluid (which is hygroscopic and time-sensitive), and the CVT transmission fluid, the latter being particularly important given the automated manual-style gearbox in this model. On a test drive, the prospective buyer should listen for any clonks or knocking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, as the MacPherson strut and lower arm bushes can deteriorate from age even on low-mileage examples. The CVT transmission should be observed for smooth, step-free acceleration under moderate load, and any juddering, slipping, or hesitation on inclines should be noted as a concern. The steering should be checked for any vagueness or knocking at full lock, which can indicate worn tie rod ends. Finally, the exhaust system should be inspected for corrosion, particularly at the mounting points and joins, as four years of exposure to road salts and moisture can take a toll even on a car that has covered relatively few miles. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified independent technician would be a prudent step given the vehicle's age and usage profile.