2017 Dacia Duster 1.6L Petrol · DB17 FEE

The vehicle achieved a clean pass on 22 May 2026 at 73,616 miles, though this followed an immediate failure the previous day due to a fractured offside rear coil spring. This pattern indicates a recurring mechanical weakness, as the nearside rear spring suffered an identical fracture in May 2024. While the car currently holds a valid certificate, the history suggests the rear suspension springs are prone to fatigue or corrosion, requiring close monitoring. Mileage accumulation appears consistent and light for the vehicle's age. The odometer moved from 70,255 miles in May 2024 to 73,616 miles in May 2026, covering approximately 3,361 miles over two years. This equates to an annual average of roughly 1,680 miles, significantly below the typical usage for a Duster of this vintage. Such low mileage often leads to perishing of rubber components, which aligns with the tyre deterioration noted during the 2024 test. Prospective buyers should prioritise a physical inspection of the rear suspension assembly. The repeated failure of coil springs on both sides implies potential underlying stress or environmental corrosion affecting the metal integrity. Additionally, check the condition of all tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, as the 2024 failure specifically flagged degradation on both rear outer tyres. Ensuring the replacement springs are of high quality is crucial to prevent immediate recurrence of this fault.