2016 Dacia Sandero 1.5L Diesel · WJ16 AAE

The most recent MOT result for this Dacia Sandero is a pass dated 23 December 2025, following a significant failure just one day prior. While the vehicle has successfully cleared its latest inspection, the maintenance trend shows signs of volatility rather than consistent upkeep. The transition from a dangerous failure involving structural tyre damage to a pass indicates that critical safety issues were addressed, but the recurrence of advisories regarding anti-roll bar components suggests that wear is progressing. The history reveals a pattern of reactive maintenance, where components are only addressed once they reach a critical threshold or fail the inspection, rather than being replaced during scheduled servicing. With a recorded mileage of 44,205 miles over approximately ten years, this vehicle has averaged roughly 4,420 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, suggesting the car has seen light usage or has spent considerable periods stationary. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it introduces specific risks associated with long-term standing. Such usage patterns can lead to the degradation of rubber components, the drying out of seals, and the potential for fluid contamination or moisture buildup within the braking system and exhaust. Prospective buyers must pay close attention to the tyre and suspension history. The recent dangerous failure due to sidewall tears and structural separation in the rear tyres indicates that the rubber may be reaching the end of its safe service life or has been subject to impact damage. During a test drive, listen for any rhythmic thumping or vibration from the rear axle, which could indicate uneven tread wear or internal tyre carcass failure. Furthermore, the advisory regarding the front outer anti-roll bar linkage pins or bushes suggests impending suspension wear. You should listen for knocking or clunking noises when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as these components will soon require replacement to maintain handling stability. Given the low annual mileage, a thorough physical inspection is essential to mitigate the risks of long-term standing. Check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing, cracking, or dry rot, as rubber degrades over time regardless of tread depth. Inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion and check for binding calipers, which can occur if the vehicle has not been driven frequently enough to clear debris from the moving parts. It is also advisable to verify the service history to ensure that oil and coolant changes have been performed on a calendar basis rather than purely by mileage, as time-based degradation of fluids is a common issue in low-usage vehicles. Finally, check the 12V battery health, as infrequent driving often leads to insufficient charging cycles and premature battery failure.