2021 Dacia Duster 1.0L Petrol · GY71 YGH

The most recent MOT test conducted on 08 January 2026 resulted in a pass, though it followed a failure regarding the driver's seat fore and aft adjustment mechanism. Evaluating the overall maintenance trend, the vehicle appears to follow a reactive maintenance pattern. The history shows that components such as brake pads and tyres are being addressed only when they reach the point of failure or legal limits, as evidenced by the 2024 brake pad failure and the recent tyre advisories. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the trend suggests that maintenance is being performed to meet minimum compliance rather than through a proactive preventative schedule. With 31,041 miles recorded over approximately five years, the vehicle has covered an average of roughly 6,200 miles per year. This is relatively low mileage for a Dacia Duster, suggesting it has not been subjected to heavy-duty or high-intensity commercial use. While lower mileage generally implies less wear on the engine, gearbox, and drivetrain, it can sometimes lead to other issues. Low annual usage can result in components like the 12V battery, brake calipers, and suspension components being subject to more frequent periods of inactivity, which can lead to corrosion or binding. A critical area for inspection is the tyre wear highlighted in the latest advisory. The offside front inner tyre and nearside rear outer tyre are both showing wear on the edges, which is a classic symptom of incorrect wheel alignment, such as toe or camber issues, or potentially worn suspension bushes and steering components. During your test drive, you must pay close attention to the steering feel; listen for any rhythmic humming or thumping noises from the tyres and check if the vehicle pulls to either side when the steering wheel is briefly released on a level road. Additionally, given the previous failure for worn brake pads and the advisory regarding pitted or scored discs, you should inspect the brake discs for significant grooving or heavy corrosion and listen for any grinding or squealing during deceleration. Finally, ensure that the driver's seat adjustment mechanism is fully functional and operates smoothly, as this was a recent cause of failure. Because the vehicle has relatively low annual mileage, you should also inspect the tyres for any signs of age-related perishing or sidewall cracking, which can occur even if the tread depth is sufficient. It is also advisable to verify the service book to confirm that time-based maintenance, such as oil changes and brake fluid replacements, has been carried out according to the manufacturer's schedule, as low mileage does not negate the need for regular fluid degradation management.