2016 Dacia Duster 1.5L Diesel · FD16 VRN

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Dacia Duster occurred on 2026-03-26, resulting in a failure due to a major defect: the near-side front coil spring having fractured or broken. This marks a significant deviation from the vehicle’s previous MOT history, where the only recorded issues were minor advisories related to windscreen washer functionality and tyre wear, with no major failures. The pattern before this failure was otherwise stable, indicating that the vehicle had maintained roadworthiness through its prior tests, albeit with some wear-related advisories that were not critical. The sudden appearance of a major structural failure in the suspension system suggests either a pre-existing condition that accelerated due to high stress cycles or a component that was not adequately serviced or replaced, particularly given the vehicle’s age and mileage. This outcome demands immediate attention, as coil springs are critical for ride quality, handling stability, and structural integrity, and a fractured spring can lead to uneven tyre wear, excessive body roll, or even dangerous handling characteristics under acceleration or braking. The recorded mileage of 79,028 miles for the 2016 Duster represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 7,903 miles per year, which aligns with typical driving patterns for a vehicle of this age and class. Such mileage is neither exceptionally low nor excessively high, but it does not rule out the possibility of prolonged periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate issues such as corrosion from standing, fluid degradation, or wear from lack of use. For example, standing for extended periods can cause brake discs to corrode or bind due to moisture accumulation, leading to reduced braking performance or uneven pad wear. Similarly, engine oil and transmission fluid can degrade over time if not changed, even with moderate mileage, particularly if the vehicle was not regularly serviced. The absence of a clear pattern of rapid mileage accumulation suggests that the wear observed in the MOT history is more likely due to normal usage rather than aggressive driving, but this does not negate the need for thorough inspection of high-stress components like the suspension and drivetrain. Given the recent major failure of the near-side front coil spring and the recurring advisories from previous MOTs, the prospective buyer should conduct a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle’s suspension system, focusing on the following areas. First, visually inspect the remaining coil springs for any signs of further deterioration, such as rust, cracks, or sagging, and listen for any unusual noises during a test drive, particularly clunks or rattles when the vehicle is driven over bumps or at speed. The front suspension should also be checked for uneven tyre wear, which may indicate misalignment or binding components, and for any oil leaks around the coil spring mounts or control arms. Additionally, the brake system should be thoroughly examined for signs of binding calipers, excessive heat damage to discs, or warping, which can be confirmed by checking for uneven pad wear, grinding noises during braking, or a spongy or pulsating pedal feel. If the coil spring failure is confirmed, the near-side front suspension arm, bushings, and any associated components should be replaced as a matter of priority, as a single failed spring can compromise handling and safety. For the buyer’s practical inspection beyond the MOT history, the 2016 Duster’s age and mileage make it essential to address several time-sensitive and wear-related checks. Given the vehicle’s age, the tyres should be inspected for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur even with moderate mileage if the rubber has been exposed to prolonged sunlight or poor storage conditions. The tyre tread depth should be verified, as the advisories from previous MOTs indicate that the front tyres are already approaching legal limits, and further wear could lead to hydroplaning or reduced traction. The battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to failing due to internal corrosion or reduced capacity, which can manifest as difficulty starting or electrical gremlins. The brake system should be checked for corrosion on the discs and pads, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as this can cause binding or reduced braking efficiency. Finally, the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant should be assessed, with a recommendation to replace the oil and filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, even if the mileage is moderate, to prevent long-term damage from degraded lubricants. If the vehicle has been in use with regular servicing, the service book should be reviewed to confirm compliance with scheduled maintenance intervals, but if it is missing or incomplete, the buyer should prioritise a full service to ensure critical components like the coil springs, suspension bushings, and fluid systems are up to standard.