2014 Dacia Sandero 1.1L Petrol · HT14 NND

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 21 August 2026, resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, following an immediate failure on the same date due to a dangerous nearside front tyre with tread depth below the legal 1.6mm minimum. This dual-entry outcome indicates that the tyre was replaced and the vehicle was subsequently retested and cleared within the same day, which is a normal remedial procedure rather than a sign of deeper neglect. Reviewing the broader trajectory, the vehicle has demonstrated a generally stable maintenance profile over the past five years, with annual passes and no recurring structural, braking, or suspension failures recorded. However, the persistence of advisories relating to engine oil seepage over three consecutive MOTs, combined with tyre-related advisories at nearly every test, suggests that while the car has remained compliant, it has required ongoing attention to consumables and minor fluid management. With 76,952 miles recorded against a 12-year age, this Dacia Sandero has averaged approximately 6,413 miles annually, which sits comfortably within typical expectations for a vehicle of its class and generation. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage history that would suggest extended periods of standing, and the year-on-year accumulation appears consistent and progressive, indicating regular use rather than sporadic or neglectful ownership patterns. That said, at this mileage a vehicle of this age will naturally be approaching wear-out thresholds for several major mechanical components, including the timing belt, clutch, suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake discs and pads, all of which should be evaluated regardless of what the MOT records show. The mileage profile is therefore broadly reassuring from a usage standpoint, but it does mean that the prospective buyer should anticipate forthcoming maintenance on age-sensitive items. The recurring advisory for an engine oil leak, although recorded as not excessive, warrants close inspection before purchase. This has appeared at the 2021, 2022,2022, and again at the 2022 test, suggesting a persistent weep from a gasket, sump, or cam seal rather than a one-off issue. On a test drive, the buyer should look for fresh oil residue on the lower engine block, any blue-grey smoke from the exhaust on startup or under acceleration indicating oil burn-off, and verify that the oil level on the dipstick is within the correct range and that the oil appears clean rather than emulsified or gritty. The 2021 advisory also noted slight seepage from the power steering pipe or hose, which combined with general under-bonnet ageing means the buyer should check for any moisture or staining around steering rack connections and listen for any groaning or whining from the pump during low-speed manoeuvres. Fluid leaks of this nature tend to worsen gradually, and a pre-purchase inspection by a technician with the vehicle on a ramp would be prudent to confirm the source and severity. The tyre-related history, including the dangerous failure in August 2026 and multiple advisories for tread wear and sidewall perishing on previous tests, is consistent with a car that is run on a budget tyre rotation cycle. The buyer should verify the age of the current tyres by checking the DOT date code on the sidewall, as rubber compounds degrade with calendar age irrespective of tread depth, and a 2014 vehicle may still be fitted with tyres that are several years old even when new. On a test drive, attention should be paid to any vibration through the steering wheel at speed, pulling to one side under braking, or uneven shoulder wear which can indicate misalignment or worn suspension components. Given the mileage, the brake discs and pads should be physically inspected for remaining material thickness, and the 2025 advisory regarding a pitted inner front brake disc confirms that at least the nearside or offside front disc is showing surface corrosion scoring, which can lead to brake shudder on application if not addressed. Finally, for a 12-year-old vehicle regardless of mileage, it is advisable to confirm when the brake fluid was last changed, when the coolant was last refreshed, and to test the 12V battery under load, as these are calendar-based service items that the MOT inspection does not cover but which directly affect reliability and safety.