2014 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · MF14 XNL

The most recent MOT, carried out on 25 February 2026, resulted in a pass but was accompanied by a series of advisories covering the central stop lamp, front brake disc condition, and multiple tyre perishing issues, with a dangerous advisory noting that both off‑side front and rear tyres are heavily cracked. Over the preceding six years the pattern has been one of recurring brake‑disc wear, persistent tyre degradation and an ongoing oil‑leak advisory, punctuated by a single failure in February 2022 for an off‑side headlamp. The record therefore suggests a maintenance trajectory that is essentially stable in terms of passing the test, yet the frequency and severity of tyre and brake advisories indicate a gradual deterioration rather than an improvement. At 52,740 mi the vehicle averages roughly 4 400 mi per annum, which is markedly below the typical usage for a 2014 model. The low annual mileage points to periods of limited running or prolonged storage, a factor that accelerates tyre perishing and can allow corrosion to develop unnoticed. While the engine and drivetrain have benefited from the modest mileage, the age of the rubber compounds means that the tyres have aged far more than the kilometres suggest, and the brake discs have accumulated wear despite the limited use. A prospective buyer should give the tyre set the highest priority. All four tyres exhibit signs of side‑wall cracking and perishing; the off‑side front and rear are flagged as dangerous, so replacement of the complete set is advisable before any further road use. During a test drive listen for a hollow or thudding sensation when cornering, which would confirm loss of sidewall integrity, and feel for any vibration that may indicate uneven wear. The front brake discs are reported as pitted and scored; a visual inspection of disc thickness and surface condition is essential, and if the remaining depth is close to the minimum legal limit the discs will need machining or replacement, together with a fresh set of pads. The oil‑leak advisory has persisted for several years; locate the source – commonly a valve‑cover gasket, oil pan gasket or crankcase breather – and verify that there is no oil on the under‑tray or on the exhaust. Ensure the central stop lamp functions correctly and that the off‑side headlamp restores full dipped‑beam illumination, as both are mandatory safety items. Given the vehicle’s age, the buyer should also inspect the battery for sulphation and confirm it holds a charge above 12.6 V at rest, check the condition of the anti‑roll‑bar linkage bush on the nearside front for excessive play, and examine the suspension bushes and coil springs for any looseness or corrosion that could produce clunking noises. A thorough visual check of the under‑body for rust, especially around the wheel arches and rear sub‑frame, is prudent. Finally, confirm that the timing belt (if fitted) has been replaced in line with the manufacturer’s 60 000 mi or 5‑year interval, and that the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed according to calendar recommendations, as time‑based degradation can be as critical as mileage‑based wear.