2013 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · FD63 GUG

The most recent MOT, conducted on 19 February 2026, was passed but recorded an advisory that the off‑side front brakes were only just meeting the imbalance requirement, indicating a need for adjustment or possible component wear. Over the preceding five years the vehicle has shown a generally stable pattern of passing, with the only failure occurring in March 2024 due to rear‑tyre condition and an off‑side headlamp aim fault. The recurring advisories for rear‑tyre cracking and perishing, together with occasional wiper and brake‑hose corrosion notes, suggest a gradual deterioration of tyre and peripheral components rather than a sudden decline, but the overall maintenance trend remains acceptable provided the identified items are addressed. At 101 215 miles the Sandero has logged roughly 7 800 miles per year since its 2013 registration, which sits squarely within the UK average for a vehicle of this age. The mileage does not indicate any periods of excessive short‑term use that would accelerate wear, nor does it reveal long stretches of inactivity that could have caused battery sulphation or brake‑disc rust. Consequently the wear on major power‑train items such as the engine, transmission and suspension is likely to be in line with normal calendar‑age expectations, but the relatively modest annual mileage does place a premium on checking for age‑related degradation of rubber and metal components. A prospective buyer should give the rear tyres immediate attention. Inspect both sidewalls and tread for any visible cracking, dry rot or soft spots, and measure tread depth; a depth below 3 mm or any sign of perishing warrants replacement, as the MOT advisories have persisted for three consecutive years. During a test drive listen for any thumping or vibration that may indicate uneven tyre wear, and feel for pull or vibration under braking that could be linked to the front‑brake imbalance. Verify that the front brakes feel firm and that the vehicle tracks straight when the pedal is applied; any pull to one side may confirm the need for a brake‑balance service, possible pad replacement, or caliper cleaning. Also check headlamp aim – a mis‑aimed off‑side headlamp can reduce night‑time visibility and may require adjustment or a new lamp housing. Given the vehicle’s age, additional time‑based inspections are prudent. Examine the battery for signs of sulphation, test the cranking voltage and ensure the terminals are clean; a 13‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Inspect the brake hoses for any external corrosion beyond the slight ferrule wear noted in 2020, and consider a brake‑fluid flush if the fluid has not been changed in the last two years. Review the service records for timing‑belt replacement – the 1.5 L engine in the 2013 Sandero typically requires a belt change at around 60 000 miles, so confirmation that this has been performed is essential. Finally, check the suspension bushes, coil springs and anti‑roll bar links for any play or squeaks, and look for rust on the chassis, especially in the wheel arches and underbody, as prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the car’s roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance costs.