2018 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · AY68 XBL

The most recent MOT test on this 2018 Dacia Sandero, conducted on 4 April 2025 at 60,396 miles, resulted in a pass with no recorded defects. However, the preceding test on 3 April 2025—just one day earlier at 60,346 miles—was a failure, though no specific faults were logged. This abrupt retest suggests an administrative oversight rather than a mechanical issue, as the vehicle cleared inspection the following day. The pattern of passing tests in April 2023 (47,440 miles) and April 2024 (53,214 miles) without failings indicates a stable roadworthiness history, though the lack of defects in any test does not preclude underlying wear. The vehicle’s MOT record is unusually clean, with no advisories or recurring faults to suggest systematic neglect or hidden deterioration. The recorded mileage progression of approximately 7,550 miles annually—from 47,440 miles in April 2023 to 60,396 miles in April 2025—falls within typical usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no evident gaps or spikes in mileage that would imply prolonged inactivity or excessive wear, though the absence of pre-MOT services or service records means the actual maintenance history remains unverified. The retest in April 2025, while unusual, does not indicate mechanical failure but rather a procedural anomaly. Without supplementary service data, the mileage trend alone offers limited insight into the vehicle’s long-term care. Given the lack of recorded defects or advisories, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of high-wear components that are not routinely checked during an MOT. The suspension—particularly the coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers—should be examined for uneven wear or corrosion, as these are not tested under standard MOT procedures. Brake components, including the rear calipers (if binding was ever suspected) and front/rear discs, warrant close scrutiny for uneven thickness or glazing, even though no brake-related failures were logged. Structural integrity, especially around wheel arches and sills, should be assessed for corrosion, as rust can compromise the chassis over time without being visible from the exterior. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions should be checked for leaks or excessive soot, as these are not always detectable during a basic MOT. The absence of advisories does not guarantee these areas are flawless, but they are critical to assess beyond the MOT’s scope.