2017 Dacia Duster 1.5L Diesel · LC66 MHL

The most recent MOT test on 6 January 2026 resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, which is a positive indicator of the vehicle's current roadworthiness. Looking back through the recent test history, the maintenance trend appears broadly stable but with one notable blemish. The January 2024 test initially failed on a fractured offside front coil spring, categorised as a major defect, before passing on the retake two days later once the repair had been completed. Following that episode, the 2025 test carried an advisory for a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit and on its edge, but the 2026 test returned to a fully clean record. This pattern suggests the vehicle has been conscientiously maintained, with the coil spring replacement representing an isolated structural repair rather than evidence of progressive chassis deterioration. With 72,622 miles recorded over approximately nine years, the Dacia Duster is averaging around 8,069 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and class. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage between tests, indicating the vehicle has been in consistent use rather than left standing for extended periods. This regularity of use is mechanically advantageous, as moderate annual mileage tends to keep seals, gaskets, brake components, and the 12V battery in healthier working condition than a similarly aged vehicle that has covered most of its miles early or sat idle. The drivetrain, clutch, and suspension components will have experienced steady wear rather than the shock loading associated with stop-start urban use or the corrosion risks of long-term storage. Despite the clean 2026 record, the recurring front tyre edge wear advisories on both the nearside and offside sides in 2024 and 2025 merit close attention. Uneven or shoulder-edge wear on front tyres can point to several underlying issues including incorrect wheel alignment, worn or sagging front suspension bushes, tired coil springs, or tracking misalignment. During a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, and pay attention to whether the vehicle pulls to one side under braking or requires constant steering correction. Inspect the inner and outer shoulders of all four tyres for feathering or stepped wear patterns, and verify that the tread depth is comfortably above the legal 1.6mm minimum across the full width. Given that the offside front coil spring fractured in early 2024, it would also be prudent to check whether the nearside spring has been replaced prophylactically, as coil springs typically fail in pairs when one side has shown weakness. Beyond the specific advisories, a nine-year-old Duster with typical mileage warrants several age-related checks that may not appear in MOT data. Tyre sidewalls should be inspected for cracking and perishing, as rubber degrades with age regardless of tread depth, and the spare wheel or inflation kit should be verified as serviceable. The braking system should be examined for disc corrosion or lipping, particularly if the vehicle has been left standing, and calipers should be checked for binding by ensuring the wheels spin freely when jacked. Under the bonnet, the 12V battery is approaching the typical replacement window and should be load-tested, while brake fluid, coolant, and transmission oil should be confirmed as within their manufacturer service intervals, as these fluids degrade with calendar age. Finally, request evidence of cambelt replacement history if fitted with a timing belt, verify the service book stamps align with the recorded mileage, and inspect the underbody and exhaust system for any signs of corrosion or fluid leaks that would warrant further investigation.