2017 Dacia Sandero 1.5L Diesel · AF67 XLL

The latest MOT test on the 2017 Dacia Sandero was conducted on 2025-11-03, resulting in a passing grade, though it included several advisories that warrant careful attention. The overall maintenance trend over the past few years shows a pattern of recurring issues primarily related to the headlamps’ levelling devices, which failed both in 2023 and 2024, necessitating major repairs. While the vehicle passed subsequent MOTs without defects, the persistence of these failures suggests a potential underlying mechanical or electrical issue with the headlamp assembly or associated wiring harness, which could lead to repeated failures if not addressed promptly. The presence of consistent tyre wear advisories—particularly on both front tyres nearing legal limits—indicates either aggressive cornering, underinflation, or misalignment, which may have been exacerbated by the vehicle’s standing periods or uneven load distribution. The recorded mileage of 69,254 miles for a nine-year-old vehicle reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,695 miles per year, which is within the expected range for this model’s age and typical UK driving conditions. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps between MOT tests suggests the vehicle has been in regular use, which can accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems. The front tyres, in particular, have shown notable edge wear, hinting at potential alignment or camber issues that could worsen if left unchecked. Given the vehicle’s age, the suspension’s condition—especially the front bump stops and steering lock—may also be under scrutiny, as these components degrade over time, particularly when the car stands for extended periods without movement. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise checking the headlamp levelling devices for mechanical or electrical failure, as their repeated failure in MOTs suggests a systemic problem. Listen for any irregularities during a test drive, such as uneven headlight output or flickering, which may indicate a wiring issue or a failing bulb. The front tyres should be examined for consistent edge wear, which could point to misalignment or camber problems; any further wear beyond the legal limit would necessitate immediate replacement. Inspect the front suspension, particularly the bump stops and steering lock mechanism, for excessive play or signs of wear, as these advisories may indicate structural fatigue. Additionally, verify the brake system for binding calipers or corrosion on discs, which can occur when the vehicle stands for prolonged periods, compromising braking performance. For fluid servicing, given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, the owner should consider a comprehensive fluid check, including the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time, even without significant mileage. The 12V battery should also be tested for capacity and corrosion on terminals, which is common in older vehicles left unused for extended periods. Finally, the tyre sidewalls should be inspected for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity and safety, especially if the tyres have been in storage for some time. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, the wear on suspension components like coil springs and bushes may be more pronounced, so a visual and functional inspection of these areas is advisable. A thorough inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion is also prudent, as the Sandero’s emissions-related components may have accumulated wear over its nine-year tenure.