2015 Dacia Duster 1.5L Diesel · GN54 APR

Recurring issues with the braking system and suspension components define the mechanical profile of this Dacia Duster, with the most recent test on 01 April 2026 showing a failure for dangerous parking brake efficiency and a major defect regarding an inoperative offside parking brake. While the vehicle passed its subsequent retest on the same day, the history reveals a pattern of persistent advisories and failures. Specifically, the nearside and offside rear anti-roll bar linkage ball joints have been flagged for slight play in both the 2025 and 2026 tests, indicating a long-term wear pattern in the rear suspension linkages. Additionally, the 2026 failure included an exhaust emissions reading that exceeded manufacturer limits, which, alongside the previous 2025 major failure of a nearside front outer drive shaft CV boot, suggests a need for close inspection of the drivetrain and engine management systems. The vehicle has covered 96,934 miles over its eleven-year lifespan, representing an average annual accumulation of approximately 8,812 miles. This usage rate is typical for a vehicle of this age and suggests a consistent pattern of use rather than long periods of stationary storage or excessive high-speed motorway mileage. Mechanically, this level of mileage means that components such as suspension bushes, drive shaft joints, and braking hardware are reaching a stage where wear is expected, as evidenced by the recorded defects in the CV boot and the repeated advisories regarding the anti-roll bar linkages and prop shaft bearing. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the braking performance and the suspension during a test drive. Given the recent failure of the parking brake, it is essential to test the handbrake's ability to hold the vehicle on an incline and check for any unevenness in braking force. The repeated advisories for the rear anti-roll bar linkage ball joints suggest that you should listen for knocking or clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which would indicate that the play in these joints has progressed. Furthermore, the previous advisory regarding pitted or scored front brake discs should be visually inspected to ensure they have been replaced or adequately refurbished following the 2024 and 2025 tests. The drivetrain and emissions history also warrant scrutiny. The 2025 major failure of the nearside front outer drive shaft CV boot and the 2024 advisory regarding the prop shaft bearing suggest that the vehicle's mechanical linkages are subject to wear. On a test drive, listen for any rhythmic clicking sounds while turning the steering wheel, which can indicate a failing CV joint, or any vibrations through the floor or seat that might stem from the prop shaft. Finally, because the 2026 test recorded an exhaust emissions failure, the engine's idle stability and acceleration should be monitored for any signs of hesitation or excessive smoke, which could relate to the underlying cause of the emissions limit breach.