2013 Dacia Sandero 1.1L Petrol · LM63 SCV

The most recent MOT inspection on 2 February 2026 resulted in a pass, but the record indicates a concerning trend towards worsening mechanical condition following a period of stability. While the 2025 and late 2023 tests showed no defects, the latest report introduces several advisories and a minor defect that suggest a decline in preventative maintenance. The vehicle has transitioned from a clean history into a phase where wear and tear on consumables and rubber components is becoming increasingly apparent. This shift suggests that the vehicle may have entered a period of higher usage or that maintenance intervals are being stretched, necessitating much closer scrutiny of the braking and suspension systems. With 107,207 miles recorded over approximately 13 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 8,247 miles per year. This represents typical, moderate usage for a petrol-engined hatchback of this age. The mileage is consistent enough to suggest the vehicle has not been sitting idle for extended periods, which helps mitigate some risks of long-term stagnation such as seized calipers or fuel degradation. However, the cumulative mileage means that major wear items such as the drivetrain, suspension bushes, and cooling system components are approaching the end of their typical service life. The steady accumulation of miles implies that mechanical components are being worked regularly, which can lead to the gradual degradation of rubber seals and CV boots seen in the recent history. A primary area of concern is the braking system. The latest advisory notes worn, pitted, or scored front brake discs alongside thinning pads, which follows a previous dangerous failure regarding brake pad thickness. On a test drive, you must check for any brake shudder under heavy deceleration, which indicates disc warping, or a pulsating sensation through the pedal. You should also listen for any grinding noises from the front wheels. Furthermore, the advisory regarding a binding nearside rear brake and the previous history of binding calipers suggests that the braking hardware may be prone to seizing. During your inspection, check for uneven tyre wear on the rear axle and verify that the wheels are easy to remove, as excessive corrosion on the hubs can make future maintenance difficult. The recent minor defect regarding a severely deteriorated nearside front inner drive shaft constant velocity boot is a critical item to monitor. A split boot allows grease to escape and grit to enter the joint, which will rapidly lead to mechanical failure of the driveshaft. Listen closely for a rhythmic clicking sound when turning the steering wheel under load, as this is a classic symptom of a failing CV joint. Additionally, the advisory for a perishing nearside rear inner tyre and a discoloured indicator suggests that rubber components and plastics are beginning to age poorly. Inspect all tyre sidewalls for fine cracks or perishing, particularly in the grooves, and check the condition of all external lighting lenses. Given the previous advisory regarding low coolant, you should also inspect the engine bay for any signs of weeping from hoses or the radiator to ensure the cooling system remains integral.