2022 Dacia Sandero Essential SCE 1.0L Petrol · ML22 XMV

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 25 March 2026 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, indicating that at the point of examination the vehicle met the required roadworthiness standards. It is worth noting, however, that a separate test on the same date was recorded as a fail due to the front headlamp aim being too high, which was subsequently rectified to achieve the pass. While headlamp aim is a relatively straightforward adjustment and not indicative of underlying mechanical wear, the presence of two entries on the same day does suggest the vehicle was presented requiring minor attention prior to obtaining its certificate. The earlier test on 25 February 2025 also returned a clean pass with no advisories or defects, so across the available history there is no pattern of recurring or progressively worsening issues. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable, with no accumulated advisories that would point to deferred maintenance. With a recorded mileage of 38,214 miles over approximately four years, the vehicle is averaging around 9,500 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and segment. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage progression that would suggest prolonged periods off the road, nor is there evidence of rapid accumulation that would imply arduous use such as heavy motorway commuting or commercial duty. This steady, moderate usage profile is generally favourable for component longevity, as it tends to keep consumables, braking components, and the drivetrain within their expected service intervals without subjecting them to excessive wear. Mechanical condition should nonetheless be proportionate to the mileage accumulated, particularly with regard to brake friction material, tyres, and routine servicing items. Given that the MOT history is largely clean and free of advisories, physical inspection should focus on age and mileage-related deterioration that may not yet have been flagged at test. Tyres warrant particular scrutiny: check the sidewalls for cracking or perishing caused by age-related UV exposure, confirm uniform tread wear across both axles, and verify that the fitted tyres are of matching size and load rating. Even at moderate mileage, standing periods between uses can lead to corrosion on the brake disc friction surfaces and potential caliper seizure, so on a test drive listen for scraping or grinding from cold and confirm that the vehicle rolls freely without resistance when the handbrake is released. Uneven pulling to one side under braking would suggest a binding caliper that may require refurbishment. The 1.0-litre SCe petrol engine and associated ancillaries should be evaluated for time-based servicing rather than purely mileage-based considerations. The 12-volt battery, now around four years old, should be load-tested to confirm retained capacity, particularly if the vehicle has been used for short trips only. Coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil all degrade through age and moisture absorption rather than solely through use, so verify that service history records demonstrate timely replacement in line with manufacturer schedules. Inspect beneath the bonnet for signs of coolant staining, oil seepage around the cam cover or sump gasket, and condition of the drive belts. On the road, the Sandero should start cleanly from cold, idle without misfires, and the manual gearbox should engage all ratios smoothly without clutch slip or judder, while the steering should remain free of clonks over speed bumps indicative of worn suspension bushes or coil springs.