2022 Dacia Duster 1.0L Petrol · HN22 ABU

The 2022 Dacia Duster’s latest DVSA MOT test on 2026-01-14 resulted in a clean pass, with no recorded defects or advisories, and the vehicle’s maintenance history remains consistently stable over the two tests conducted. Both previous MOTs in 2025-02-28 and 2026-01-14 reflect a well-maintained state, indicating no deterioration in structural integrity, emissions compliance, or functional components. The absence of recurring failures or advisories suggests that the owner has prioritised routine servicing, though the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant a thorough inspection beyond the MOT’s scope to identify latent issues that may not yet manifest as failures. The recorded mileage of 47,102 miles for a four-year-old Duster represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 11,776 miles per year, aligning with typical driving patterns for this model. Such mileage distribution is unlikely to have accelerated wear on consumables like fluids, filters, or seals unless there were periods of prolonged inactivity or heavy load conditions. However, the vehicle’s age and the potential for standing periods—even if brief—could contribute to subtle issues such as corrosion on brake components, standing fluid degradation, or minor suspension wear from infrequent use. The absence of high-mileage indicators like excessive tyre wear patterns or irregular suspension noises would be reassuring, but a test drive should still account for potential creaks from underused suspension components or stiffness in the steering system. Given the clean MOT history and moderate mileage, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the Dacia Duster to address age-related and usage-specific risks. Start with the tyres, checking for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileage due to prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Inspect the 12V battery for signs of corrosion on terminals, battery fluid levels (if applicable), and overall physical condition, as older batteries may struggle under short trips or periods of disuse. The braking system should be scrutinised for signs of corrosion on discs or rust on brake pads, as standing can lead to binding calipers or uneven wear, which may not be detected during an MOT but could cause reduced braking efficiency. During a test drive, focus on listening for unusual noises such as clunks from suspension bushes or coil springs, which may indicate wear or damage from infrequent use. Pay particular attention to the steering feel—binding or excessive play could signal issues with the steering rack or tie rods. Check for any fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the engine bay, transmission area, and under the rear axle, as standing fluids can corrode seals or hoses over time. Additionally, verify that all fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and show no signs of contamination or degradation, as older fluids can lose effectiveness and require replacement before they fail. Finally, inspect the exhaust system for leaks or discolouration, which could indicate catalytic converter or manifold issues, and ensure emissions compliance is maintained, as older vehicles may develop subtle exhaust-related problems despite passing the MOT.