2018 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · CP68 PXK

The 2018 Dacia Sandero holds a current MOT pass dated 9 April 2026 at 40,629 miles, yet the maintenance trend is not straightforwardly improving. The most recent test cycle tells a story of correction rather than underlying wear resolution. In the initial attempt on 9 April 2026, the tester flagged both headlamp aims as too high and recorded a prevent-covers advisory on the front upper MacPherson strut pin or bush on both sides, noting wear without excessive movement. That same day the car passed after the headlamp aim was rectified, but the suspension advisory remained, indicating the worn strut components were not replaced. A clean pass in April 2025 at 38,691 miles had followed a failed attempt where both headlamp aims were too low, suggesting the lamp aim issue is a recurring setup problem rather than a one-off defect. The record shows a pattern of headlamp aim corrections at consecutive tests, which points to either a fragile headlamp mounting arrangement or a lack of proper setup after bulb replacements or minor front-end work. At roughly 5,079 miles per year, this Sandero has covered low mileage for an eight-year-old vehicle. The gap between October 2024 at 34,907 miles and April 2025 at 38,691 miles shows a jump of 3,784 miles in six months, which is modest but noticeable. The subsequent climb to 40,629 miles by April 2026 adds only 1,938 miles over twelve months, indicating a slowdown in use. Low annual mileage can mean reduced wear on drivetrain and braking components, yet it also raises the possibility of prolonged standing, which can lead to tyre flat-spotting, brake disc surface corrosion, and dried-out rubber bushes. The 2024 test flagged both rear tyres as slightly damaged, cracking, or perishing, a classic sign of age-related rubber deterioration rather than high-mileage wear, supporting the theory that this car may have spent extended periods stationary. A buyer should inspect the front suspension closely, focusing on the upper MacPherson strut pins and bushes on both sides. The repeated advisory at the April 2026 test, combined with the prevent-covers restriction, means a full assessment of strut top mounts, coil springs, and damper condition requires removal of covers or a workshop lift check. Examine the headlamp units and mounting points for signs of impact damage or poor previous repairs, given the recurring aim faults. Check the rear tyres for age-related cracking and confirm the dates of manufacture, as the 2024 advisory suggests the rubber may be approaching the end of its service life despite low tread wear. Inspect brake discs and pads for surface corrosion that can develop on lightly used vehicles, and assess the condition of all suspension bushes and anti-roll bar links, which can perish from age rather than mileage. The overall roadworthiness is acceptable on paper, but the combination of a persistent suspension advisory and repeated headlamp aim corrections warrants a thorough mechanical inspection before purchase.