2017 Dacia Sandero 1.5L Diesel · CU17 OMS

The 2017 Dacia Sandero holds a valid MOT certificate issued on 20 May 2026 at 42,711 miles, following a failure the previous day for a non-working windscreen washer and a deteriorated front registration plate. The immediate retest confirms these minor issues were resolved promptly. The overall maintenance trend appears broadly stable. A more significant failure in April 2024 for an excessively worn offside front lower suspension arm ball joint and a headlamp aim defect was rectified before the subsequent test the next day. No further major mechanical or structural defects have been recorded since. The most recent advisory, a noisy auxiliary belt possibly indicating a worn tensioner noted in April 2025, remains outstanding and warrants investigation. The recorded mileage of 42,711 miles over approximately nine years averages roughly 4,746 miles per year, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. The MOT history shows a gap of nearly twelve months between the April 2024 and April 2025 tests, with mileage increasing by 3,885 miles in that period. The most recent tests in May 2026 show no mileage increase from the failed to the passed test, confirming the vehicle was stationary during that interval. This low annual mileage pattern suggests light use, which can reduce wear on consumables but may also indicate prolonged periods of inactivity that can affect components like brakes, tyres, and rubber bushes. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the front suspension, given the history of a worn ball joint in 2024. While repaired, it is prudent to inspect the condition of the lower suspension arms, track rod ends, and associated bushes for any uneven wear or play. The outstanding advisory regarding the auxiliary belt and possible worn tensioner requires immediate attention; a failing tensioner can lead to belt loss, affecting the alternator, power steering, and water pump. The brake system should be inspected for corrosion or seizure, as low-mileage vehicles can suffer from sticking calipers or deteriorated discs due to infrequent use. A thorough underbody inspection for corrosion is advisable, particularly on the subframe, suspension mounting points, and around the exhaust system, as standing vehicles can develop surface rust that may compromise structural integrity over time.