2013 Dacia Sandero 1.1L Petrol · LS62 RDS

The most recent MOT on 23 April 2026 was a Pass, with only an advisory that the near‑side front tyre is close to the legal tread limit. Over the past four years the vehicle has shown a pattern of isolated major failures – a non‑functioning horn, ineffective wiper, headlamp aim, and a split CV joint boot – each of which was remedied before the subsequent test. Electrical faults on the position lamp and dipped‑beam headlamp were also corrected after a brief failure in 2023. The record therefore indicates a reactive but improving maintenance regime, with the latest test confirming that the previously identified defects have been resolved. At 83,729 miles the Sandero averages roughly 6,400 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope for a thirteen‑year‑old hatchback. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would suggest long periods of storage, nor is the accumulation rapid enough to raise immediate concerns about accelerated wear. The moderate annual mileage means that consumables such as brake pads, clutch, and suspension components should be near the middle of their service life, but age‑related degradation cannot be ignored. Given the recent CV joint boot split, a prospective buyer should give the near‑side drive shaft a thorough visual inspection for any fresh grease leakage or boot cracking, and listen for a clicking or whine when turning the steering wheel at low speed – symptoms of a deteriorating constant‑velocity joint. The tyre advisories from the last two years imply that the front tyres are wearing unevenly, likely due to alignment or suspension issues; a test‑drive should include a check for any wandering or pulling to one side, and a professional wheel‑alignment check is advisable. Verify that the horn operates sharply, the windscreen wiper clears the glass without streaking, and the headlamp aim is correctly centred, as these were previously flagged as safety‑critical faults. Beyond the recorded defects, age‑related checks are essential. Inspect all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot, or bulges, especially since the vehicle has been in service for over a decade. Examine the battery terminals for corrosion and consider a load test, as standing periods can weaken a 12 V unit. Look for surface rust on the chassis, brake discs, and suspension mounting points, and ensure the brake pads have adequate thickness and the discs are free of deep scoring that could cause shudder. Finally, confirm that the service book shows timely oil, coolant, and brake‑fluid changes – fluids degrade with time even if mileage is modest, and fresh fluids are a key indicator of a well‑maintained car.