2022 Dacia Sandero Comfort TCE 1.0L Petrol · SX22 AAY

The 2022 Dacia Sandero Comfort TCE’s latest DVSA MOT test on 2026-06-25 resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a continuation of its stable maintenance history. Prior to this, the vehicle passed its 2025-06-12 MOT with only advisory defects related to tyre wear, both nearside and offside front tyres showing excessive lateral wear patterns—indicating potential alignment or camber issues or improper tyre installation. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT, the presence of these advisories suggests a recurring concern that should be monitored, particularly if the tyres are approaching their legal limits or if the wear persists beyond the current mileage. The absence of further defects or advisories in the intervening year implies that any underlying mechanical issues have either been addressed or are not yet critical, though the tyre wear trend warrants closer inspection. The recorded mileage of 14,723 miles for a vehicle aged four years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 3,681 miles per annum, which is notably below the average for a similarly aged model. Such low mileage can result from light use, long periods of stationary storage, or seasonal driving patterns, but it also raises questions about the vehicle’s operational conditions. Extended periods of inactivity without proper maintenance can lead to issues such as corrosion in standing components—particularly around the front suspension, brake systems, and exhaust manifold—while fluid degradation (e.g., brake fluid, differential fluid, or coolant) accelerates over time, even if mileage is low. Additionally, if the vehicle has been stored without regular checks, wear on consumables like seals, gaskets, and suspension bushes may have progressed subtly, potentially leading to future mechanical concerns if not addressed promptly. Given the clean MOT history and low mileage, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection to identify any age-related or standing-related wear. Focus on the front suspension, as prolonged inactivity can cause corrosion on the lower control arms, strut mounts, or coil spring hangers, leading to clunking noises or uneven ride quality when driven. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs, pads, or calipers, particularly near the front wheels where moisture can pool, causing rust or binding. Check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing, cracking, or dry rot, which can compromise their structural integrity even if the tread remains legal. The 12-volt battery should be tested for charge retention and physical condition, as low usage may have led to a weakened or failing battery, which can cause electrical gremlins or poor starting. Additionally, verify that the service book is up to date, especially for time-based maintenance such as the differential fluid change (typically every 60,000–100,000 miles or two years) and coolant flush, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. A professional inspection or pre-purchase report would be prudent to confirm the absence of hidden issues, particularly in the suspension and brake systems, where low mileage alone does not guarantee freedom from long-term wear.