2014 Dacia Sandero 1.5L Diesel · MF14 XNS

The most recent MOT, carried out on 15 September 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions standards at that time. However, the MOT history shows a pattern of intermittent failures relating to the constant‑velocity (CV) boot on the front drive shafts – a failure in March 2021 on the off‑side, a repeat failure in March 2023 on the near‑side, and again in March 2025 on the near‑side – suggesting a recurring weakness in that component. Apart from those isolated CV‑boot failures, the remaining tests have been clean, with only tyre‑wear advisories noted in 2022, which points to an overall maintenance trend that is generally stable but marred by a specific, repeatable defect that should be addressed promptly. The odometer reads 84,630 miles on a vehicle that is twelve years old, giving an average annual mileage of roughly 7,050 miles. This figure sits comfortably within the typical UK usage pattern for a small hatchback and does not indicate excessive wear from high mileage. There are no large gaps in the recorded mileage that would suggest prolonged periods of storage, nor is there a sudden surge in kilometres that would accelerate component fatigue. Consequently, the wear on major drivetrain elements, suspension, and braking systems should be commensurate with moderate use rather than high‑stress operation. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front CV joints and their protective boots. Inspect the boots for any signs of cracking, splitting, or oil ingress, and verify that the joint itself is well lubricated and free of grease leakage. On a test drive, listen for a consistent clicking or clunking noise when turning the steering wheel at low speed, and feel for any vibration or shudder under acceleration, both of which can indicate a deteriorating CV joint. Because the same fault has recurred, it would be prudent to have the boots replaced and the joints inspected by a qualified mechanic, with a view to replacing the entire joint if any play or excessive wear is detected. Additionally, the tyre advisories from 2022 suggest that the front tyres were close to the legal tread limit and the rear left tyre showed early signs of cracking; therefore, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of all four tyres is essential. Look for tread depth below 1.6 mm, sidewall cracking, or perishing, and consider replacing the set if any tyre shows uneven wear or age‑related degradation, especially given the vehicle’s twelve‑year age. Beyond the specific CV and tyre concerns, the car’s age warrants a comprehensive check of time‑sensitive components. Examine the suspension bushes and coil springs for any signs of corrosion, cracking, or excessive play, as ageing rubber can lead to handling imprecision. Inspect the brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing, or uneven wear, and verify that the calipers move freely without binding. Check the 12‑volt battery for sulphation and ensure the terminals are clean, as a battery of this vintage may be nearing the end of its service life. Finally, confirm that the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals – typically every 12‑15 months for oil and coolant, and every two years for brake fluid – and look for any leaks around the engine bay, exhaust manifold, and under the vehicle that could indicate corrosion or gasket failure. Addressing these items will help ensure the Sandero remains mechanically sound and road‑worthy for the next few years.