2020 Dacia Sandero Stepway SE Twenty TCE 0.9L Petrol · LS70 OUG

The most recent MOT test on 2025-09-05 resulted in a clean pass with no defects, marking a positive continuation of the vehicle’s roadworthiness status. However, the preceding two MOTs in 2024 and 2023 reveal a pattern of recurring advisories that suggest gradual wear progression rather than sudden failure. The 2024 test identified front brake discs exhibiting moderate pitting and scoring on both near and offside sides, classified under advisory category 1.1.14(a)(ii), which indicates wear that is not yet severe enough to compromise braking performance but warrants attention. Additionally, the front tyres showed signs of minor damage, cracking, or perishing, along with wear close to the legal limit on the nearside, reinforcing the need for proactive maintenance. While the 2023 MOT was minimal with only a minor windscreen wiper blade defect, the absence of further defects in 2025 suggests that the vehicle has maintained stability in its core systems, but the advisories from 2024 remain a critical area to monitor. The recorded mileage of 45,774 miles for a 2020 DACIA Sandero Stepway represents a reasonable usage profile, averaging approximately 7,629 miles annually over the past six years. This rate is consistent with typical light-to-moderate use, though it does not indicate extreme wear patterns. Lower mileage could imply periods of inactivity or less frequent operation, potentially leading to issues such as standing corrosion on the chassis or fluid degradation from stagnation, whereas higher mileage would accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components. The absence of significant mileage spikes or rapid accumulation suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to particularly harsh conditions, but the advisories from the 2024 MOT—particularly the brake disc wear—may reflect underlying wear that could intensify with continued use. Given the recurring advisories on the front brake discs and tyres from the 2024 MOT, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system. During a test drive, listen for any unusual noises such as grinding or squeaking, which could indicate further brake disc damage or warping. Inspect the brake discs for uneven wear, deep grooves, or signs of glazing, and check the brake pads for thickness and condition. If the discs are significantly pitted or scored, consider replacing them before the wear progresses to a point where braking performance is compromised. Additionally, verify the tyre tread depth and condition—though the 2024 MOT noted wear close to the legal limit, ensure the tyres are not further degraded by cracks, bulges, or uneven wear patterns that could compromise traction. If the tyres are nearing their legal limit, replacement is advisable to maintain safety. For the front tyres showing signs of cracking or perishing, a visual inspection of the sidewall for signs of dry rot or delamination is essential. Tyres that have been stored for extended periods or used in conditions prone to UV exposure may develop such issues, which can lead to sudden failure. The buyer should also check for any visible damage to the tyre structure, such as cuts or splits, and ensure the tread pattern remains intact. If the tyres are beyond their recommended service life—typically around 6–10 years, depending on usage—replacement is strongly recommended. Beyond the brakes and tyres, the buyer should consider a visual inspection of the suspension components, particularly the front suspension bushes and coil springs, for signs of wear or excessive play, which could indicate long-term fatigue. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and the potential for standing, a check of the 12V battery health and corrosion on the battery terminals is prudent, as well as verifying that the service book or maintenance records have been updated for time-based servicing, such as fluid top-ups and filter replacements, which are critical for long-term reliability.