2017 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · MJ67 JCZ

The most recent MOT inspection on 20 June 2026 resulted in a pass, following a failure for incorrect nearside front headlamp aim. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent pass record, the recent history shows a fluctuating maintenance trend rather than a strictly stable one. The 2025 failure was particularly significant, involving a dangerous defect regarding critically worn front brake pads and a major failure of the offside headlamp assembly. The transition from a dangerous brake failure in 2025 to a pass in 2026 suggests that essential remedial work has been carried out, but the recurring advisory regarding the service light being illuminated indicates that scheduled mechanical maintenance may be lagging behind the vehicle's age and operational requirements. With a recorded mileage of 42,392 over approximately nine years, this Dacia Sandero has averaged roughly 4,710 miles per year. This is considered very low usage for a vehicle of this age, which typically suggests the car has been used for short, local trips or has spent considerable periods stationary. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it introduces specific mechanical risks associated with under-use. Vehicles that sit idle for long periods are prone to fluid degradation, such as moisture buildup in the brake fluid or oil, and can suffer from component seizure or accelerated corrosion on braking surfaces and suspension components due to lack of regular heat cycles and movement. A primary concern for a prospective buyer is the history of tyre perishing, which has been noted as an advisory in almost every inspection since 2023. The repeated mentions of cracking and perishing across all four tyres suggest that the rubber is reaching the end of its structural life due to age rather than tread wear. On a test drive, you should inspect the sidewalls closely for any fine cracks or bulges and listen for increased road noise, which can indicate hardening rubber. Furthermore, the previous dangerous failure of the front brake pads and the advisory for worn front discs mean you must verify that the entire braking system has been refreshed. During your test drive, listen for any grinding noises when applying the brakes, feel for any pulsations or shuddering through the pedal which would indicate warped or unevenly worn discs, and ensure the car does not pull to one side, which could signal a binding caliper. Given the low annual mileage, you should perform a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle's age-related consumables. Check the battery health using a multimeter if possible, as low-use vehicles often suffer from sulphation and reduced cranking power. Inspect the underside of the vehicle for signs of surface corrosion or rust, particularly on the exhaust system and suspension bushes, which can develop more quickly when a car is not driven regularly. It is also vital to verify the service history in the logbook; since the MOT history shows a service light was recently illuminated, you should confirm that oil and filter changes have been performed on a time-based schedule rather than just a mileage-based one to prevent internal engine sludge and ensure all fluids remain chemically stable.