2016 Dacia Duster 1.2L Petrol · FN66 RYV

The 2016 Dacia Duster’s most recent MOT test on 2025-10-25 resulted in a passing outcome, with no recorded defects, following a previous failure in the same month for a non-functional near-side front position lamp. This marks a positive shift in the vehicle’s roadworthiness status, as the prior failure was the sole defect noted in the past year, indicating that the lamp issue has been resolved. The overall maintenance trend over the past five years appears stable, with the majority of tests passing without issues, aside from the occasional advisory related to tyre wear or minor headlamp alignment. The absence of repeated failures beyond the lamp issue suggests that the vehicle’s structural integrity and core mechanical systems remain compliant with current standards, though the advisories warrant closer attention during a pre-purchase inspection. The recorded mileage of 59,955 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 6,000 miles per annum. This figure is notably lower than what would be expected for a vehicle of its age and class, which often accumulates between 10,000 and 15,000 miles annually under typical use. The consistent low mileage could suggest periods of prolonged inactivity, such as storage or infrequent operation, which may have contributed to certain wear patterns observed in the MOT history, particularly the tyre advisories. However, this usage profile does not inherently indicate mechanical neglect; instead, it may have allowed certain consumables and components to degrade over time due to extended exposure to environmental factors, such as fluid ageing or corrosion from standing. During a pre-purchase inspection, the buyer should prioritise checking the tyre condition beyond the advisories recorded in the MOT history. The near-side front tyre showing wear close to the legal limit and the rear tyres exhibiting signs of cracking or perishing indicate that the tread depth is critical, and the vehicle may benefit from a full tyre rotation and balancing to ensure even wear. Look for lateral grooves, tread separation, or sidewall damage, as these can compromise traction and safety, especially in wet conditions. The offside rear tyre’s perishing suggests that the rubber has degraded significantly, which could lead to sudden blowouts if not addressed promptly. Additionally, inspect the vehicle’s suspension for signs of wear, such as clunking noises from worn suspension bushes or coil springs, particularly when driving over bumps or at speed. Listen for uneven suspension movement or excessive play in the steering, which may indicate binding calipers or damaged strut mounts. Given the vehicle’s age and the low mileage, the buyer should also focus on fluid condition and standing corrosion. Check the brake fluid for darkening or contamination, as standing brake fluid can absorb moisture and corrode brake components over time. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion, pitting, or binding, which can occur when the vehicle stands for extended periods without use. The 12-volt battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as prolonged inactivity can lead to sulphation or reduced capacity. Finally, verify that the service book records have been updated, particularly for fluid servicing intervals, as the Dacia Duster’s oil and coolant should be changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations—typically every 15,000 to 20,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. If the vehicle has been stored for long periods, consider a thorough inspection of the exhaust system for rust or leaks, as well as the electrical system for any signs of corrosion or failing connections, which can be exacerbated by low usage.