2018 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · CV18 AXN

The defining mechanical story of this 2018 Dacia Sandero is one of mostly clean roadworthiness interrupted by a single minor failure in early 2021, but with a noticeable build-up of advisories in the most recent tests that point to wear on consumable components typical of higher-mileage use. The most recent pass on 22 January 2026 recorded two advisories: split upper bushes on both sides of the front anti-roll bar linkage and an offside rear tyre worn down to 3mm. The 2025 test also surfaced advisories, including a nearside front brake pad noted as wearing thin, nail damage in two tyres, and a TPMS warning light illuminated. By contrast, the 2024, 2023, and 2022 tests returned no advisories whatsoever. The single failure on 26 March 2021 was limited to headlamp aim on both sides and a wiper blade not clearing the screen effectively, all of which were rectified at the same test date which also produced a pass. The pattern therefore suggests a vehicle that has held its roadworthiness pass rate well over the last four consecutive tests, but where component wear is now beginning to show at the higher end of its mileage. The recorded mileage of 84,514 miles over approximately eight years equates to an annual accumulation of around 10,500 miles, which sits broadly in line with typical commuter use for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no extended gaps in the MOT testing record and no missing years, meaning the vehicle has not been laid up for any significant period, which reduces the risk of seized brakes, perished hoses, or flat-spotted tyres. The steady testing cadence combined with consistent mileage accumulation points to a car that has remained in regular service rather than one subjected to long periods of inactivity followed by sudden recommissioning. Mechanically, this level of sustained use means wear items such as brake discs and pads, suspension bushes, and tyres will be approaching or have already required replacement, which aligns with the advisory pattern observed in the last two tests. For a prospective buyer, the front anti-roll bar linkage bushes flagged in the latest test are worth close physical inspection. Listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps or potholes, and pay particular attention to body roll and vagueness through quick direction changes, as worn anti-roll bar bushes will allow excessive lateral movement of the suspension. The nearside front brake pad advisory from 2025 should prompt a check of pad material thickness and disc condition, with attention to any grinding sensation, pulling to one side under braking, or a soft or spongy brake pedal. The headlamp aim failure from 2021 is unlikely to recur unless the headlamp adjusters have been disturbed, but it is still worth confirming both lamps are set correctly and providing symmetrical illumination on a wall at night. The TPMS light recorded in 2025 may simply relate to a low tyre or a faulty sensor rather than a systemic fault, but it should be verified as clear before purchase. On the road, the ride quality, steering precision, and braking response should be the primary focus given the suspension and brake components flagged. Listen for any knocking or rattling from the front end over uneven surfaces, feel for vibration through the steering wheel which could indicate tyre wear or wheel balance issues, and check for any pulling to one side under steady cruising or braking. Inspect the offside rear tyre and all four tyres for even wear patterns, sidewall cracking, and adequate tread depth, as the 2021 advisory noted perishing and the 2026 advisory noted an edge-worn rear tyre. The undertray fitments noted in 2021 and 2023 are worth checking to ensure they are properly secured and not concealing corrosion or oil leaks, particularly around the front subframe mounting points and suspension arms where age and mileage commonly introduce surface rust. Overall, the record indicates a vehicle that has consistently passed its roadworthiness tests with only minor and easily correctable items, but the recent advisories confirm that the consumable wear expected at this mileage is now actively manifesting and should be budgeted for.