2015 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · FN65 UTB

The most recent DVSA test dated 6 October 2025 records a PASS, but the same date carries a prior FAIL which is a critical indicator worth understanding. The failure reason was brake fluid significantly below the minimum mark, a straightforward but serious rectification involving fluid top-up and a full system inspection to confirm no leaks are present, with replacement of the fluid also advisable given its hygroscopic nature. The advisories issued alongside that test are now attached to a passing certificate and remain valid for the next inspection. Overall, the maintenance trend appears to be reasonably stable but with a creeping pattern of wear items appearing on successive tests, including a CV gaiter split flagged in 2022 and again in 2023, exhaust leaks recurring from 2024, and suspension and tyre concerns surfacing in 2025. There is no evidence of catastrophic failure, but the cumulative pattern suggests the vehicle is entering a phase where age-related deterioration of consumables and underbody components is becoming routine. The recorded mileage of 49,044 miles over approximately 11 years equates to an annual average of around 4,459 miles, which is well below the typical figure for a car of this vintage. This low usage figure carries specific mechanical implications. Long periods of standing can accelerate corrosion on brake discs, leading to surface pitting and judder under braking, and can cause caliper slide pins and pistons to seize. Brake fluid degrades over time irrespective of mileage, typically requiring replacement every two years due to moisture absorption, which makes the low fluid finding on the 2025 test entirely consistent with a calendar-based service neglect rather than a leak. Low annual mileage also places greater stress on the 12V battery through incomplete recharge cycles, and rubber components such as tyres, coolant hoses, and suspension bushes are more susceptible to perishing and cracking from age than from wear. Given the advisories raised on the 2025 test, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the nearside front suspension arm ball joint, as slight play will progress to a dangerous failure if not addressed, and on a test drive any clunking or knocking over uneven surfaces, vague steering, or uneven tyre wear across the front axle would indicate the joint has deteriorated further. The nearside front tyre should be examined for both tread depth and edge wear, which on a Sandero commonly points to worn suspension bushes, alignment issues, or ageing rubber compounds. The exhaust system warrants a physical inspection underneath the vehicle to identify the source of the recurring minor leak, paying particular attention to the rear section joints and the centre silencer mounting, as exhaust gas leaks pose both an emissions and safety risk. The brake fluid should be confirmed as fresh and at the correct level, and the front discs checked for lipping and the pads for remaining material, as the 2020 advisories noted both components were wearing thin and have likely needed replacement since. Beyond the recorded defects, age-appropriate physical checks are essential. Tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking and perishing, which is common on low-mileage vehicles, and the spare or repair kit condition verified. A battery health test is recommended, and the charging system output should be confirmed, as short trips and infrequent use accelerate battery sulphation. Brake discs should be inspected for rust pitting and any binding caliper symptoms such as uneven pad wear or a hot wheel after driving. Fluid services for brake fluid, coolant, and gearbox oil should be confirmed up to date by service history, as calendar-based degradation rather than mileage is the primary concern. Finally, a check for oil leaks from the cam cover and sump, plus an inspection of the underbody for corrosion, would round off a sensible pre-purchase evaluation for an 11-year-old low-mileage Sandero.