2014 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · CF14 GAL

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 26 February 2026, with advisories recorded for both nearside and offside front tyres being worn close to the legal limit and on their edges. Looking at the broader trend across the recorded tests, the maintenance picture is broadly stable but with a clear focus of attention on the front suspension and front tyres over the last two years. Between 2020 and 2023 the vehicle passed cleanly with only minor advisories, but the January 2024 test produced a Major failure for an excessively worn offside front suspension arm ball joint, alongside an advisory for a worn offside front upper Macpherson strut pin or bush, before passing the following day once repaired. The 2025 test then returned a clean pass, suggesting the suspension rectification was carried out properly, while the 2026 test continues the pattern of front-end wear resurfacing, this time at the tyres themselves. Recorded mileage stands at 129,470 miles on a 2014 vehicle, giving an annual average of approximately 10,789 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and segment. The MOT record shows consistent year-on-year testing with no significant gaps in annual mileage accumulation, indicating regular use rather than long periods of standing. For a Dacia Sandero at this mileage and age, the wear burden on the engine, clutch, brakes, and suspension components is commensurate with the odometer reading, so items such as the dual mass flywheel or clutch release bearing, exhaust system, and front suspension linkages should be considered normal wear items rather than outliers. The recurring front-end issues recorded across the last three MOTs warrant close physical inspection prior to purchase. The ball joint failure and Macpherson strut bush wear noted in 2024 indicate the front suspension has been operating near its service limits, and although repaired, a buyer should carry out a careful test drive listening for clonks or knocks from the front end over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, and when turning at low speed, as these are classic symptoms of worn or failing suspension bushes, top mounts, or strut bearings. Uneven or feathered wear across the front tyres, particularly on the inner or outer shoulders, would point toward remaining geometry or suspension issues, and the front tyres themselves, being close to the legal limit at the most recent test, will almost certainly require replacement. With Macpherson struts fitted, also check for any signs of strut oil seepage and excessive play in the upper mounts by rocking each front corner with the wheel raised. Beyond the advisories, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants a number of time-based checks regardless of MOT outcome. Perishing and cracking of tyre sidewalls is common on a 12 year old car, so all four tyres should be examined for age-related deterioration even where tread depth remains adequate. Brake discs and calipers should be inspected for surface corrosion and signs of binding, particularly at the rear, which can occur from standing or light use. Given the average annual mileage, the 12 volt battery is likely approaching the end of its useful life and should be load tested. Cooling system hoses, the cambelt replacement interval, brake fluid moisture content, and the condition of the coolant, gearbox oil, and engine oil should all be verified against the manufacturer's service schedule. Finally, confirm that the documented ball joint replacement in 2024 was accompanied by a wheel alignment check, and inspect the rear tyres and exhaust system for the minor advisories of cracking and coolant leak noted historically, ensuring they have been resolved and have not returned.