2015 Dacia Sandero 1.1L Petrol · CU15 OSB

The most recent DVSA examination on 6 March 2024 resulted in a Pass, but the test was accompanied by one Minor defect and three Advisories which warrant close attention from any prospective buyer. The Minor item relating to a severely deteriorated nearside front drive shaft constant velocity boot is particularly important, as a torn CV boot allows grease to escape and moisture and dirt to enter the joint, leading to accelerated wear of the CV joint and eventual failure, typically heard as a clicking noise on full lock turns. The advisory concerning the offside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit and on its edge suggests a possible tracking or suspension geometry irregularity, which ties in with the earlier failure on 16 February 2022 where a nearside track rod end was found to have excessive play, a component replaced in steering and suspension safety terms. The advisory regarding pitted or scored front brake discs, while not deemed seriously weakened at the time of test, indicates surface corrosion typical of low-mileage urban use and may produce brake shudder under heavy application. The further advisory noting slight noise from both front wheel bearings should be monitored, as worn bearings progress to a louder growl and ultimately require replacement. Considering the recorded mileage of 60,788 miles over approximately eleven years, this Dacia Sandero has averaged around 5,500 miles per year, which is notably below the national average and consistent with light, primarily urban use or extended periods of standing. Such low annual mileage generally reduces wear on internal engine and drivetrain components but introduces its own set of age-related concerns, particularly corrosion of braking surfaces, degradation of rubber and polymer components, and potential issues arising from infrequent fluid cycling. Given the relatively sparse MOT history showing only the one set of advisories in 2024 and a clean pass in 2023, the vehicle's record suggests reasonable but not exceptional maintenance. A prospective purchaser should carry out a careful physical inspection, beginning with the tyres, as an eleven-year-old car may exhibit sidewall cracking, perishing, or dry rot even if tread depth remains adequate, and any tyres manufactured before 2018 should be viewed with caution regardless of apparent condition. The front brake discs should be examined for any lipping or significant corrosion between annual use, and the caliper slide pins should be checked for seizing, which is common on lightly used vehicles and causes uneven pad wear. The near-side front CV boot identified in 2024 should be re-inspected for splits or grease contamination, and the steering system, particularly the track rod end replaced after the 2022 failure, should be checked for any recurrence of play by rocking the wheel at the front. A test drive should include full-lock manoeuvres in both directions to listen for CV joint clicking, a steady-speed run on a smooth road surface to detect any progression in wheel bearing noise, and firm brake application from speed to identify any shudder or pulling. Additional age-related checks should include verification of the 12V battery health, as batteries older than five years frequently struggle in colder conditions and can cause starting issues. All fluid services should be confirmed against calendar age rather than mileage, with brake fluid typically requiring replacement every two years due to its hygroscopic nature, coolant generally due every three to five years, and the timing belt or chain service interval should be verified against manufacturer schedule, as a 2015 vehicle may be approaching or past its scheduled replacement depending on engine variant. The service history stamps and invoices should be examined to confirm regular oil and filter changes, which are particularly important given the low-mileage usage pattern, as infrequent use with short journeys can promote moisture build-up in engine oil and accelerated internal corrosion. The exhaust system should be inspected for rust, particularly at mounting points and the rear silencer, and a thorough check underneath the vehicle for any corrosion to structural and suspension components would be advisable given the car's age.