2023 Dacia Duster Extreme SE Blue DCI 4X4 1.5L Diesel · ND23 XEL

Accelerated component wear is the defining characteristic of this vehicle, evidenced by the emergence of brake system advisories during its first MOT test conducted on 21 May 2026. While the vehicle successfully passed the inspection, the recording of thin front brake pads and worn discs at only three years of age indicates that the braking system is approaching the end of its initial service life. This early onset of wear is consistent with the vehicle's intensive operational history and suggests that the next owner should anticipate immediate expenditure on friction materials to maintain roadworthiness. Accumulating 41,974 miles in approximately three years results in an annual average of nearly 14,000 miles, placing this Dacia well above the typical usage profile for a vehicle of this class. This high-mileage pattern necessitates a more rigorous inspection of drivetrain and suspension components than would be expected for a lower-mileage example. The constant, high-frequency use likely involves significant motorway or long-distance driving, which places sustained thermal stress on the diesel particulate filter and the 4x4 drivetrain, components that do not appear in the MOT data but are subject to the same operational intensity as the documented braking system. During your test drive, pay particular attention to the braking performance, as the current state of the discs and pads may manifest as a pulsing sensation through the pedal under firm deceleration or a metallic grinding noise during low-speed stops. If the pedal feels spongy or requires excessive travel before the vehicle begins to slow, this confirms the need for a full replacement of the front discs and pads. Ensure that the vehicle tracks straight under heavy braking, as uneven wear on the discs can occasionally cause a slight pull to one side, which may also indicate a binding caliper that was not explicitly flagged during the test. Beyond the braking system, the minor windscreen chip noted in the record should be monitored for propagation, particularly given the potential for temperature-related stress cracks. Given the high mileage, listen intently for any knocking or clonking sounds from the suspension when traversing uneven road surfaces or speed bumps, as the bushings and drop links will have sustained significant duty cycles. Test the 4x4 system by ensuring smooth engagement and disengagement without any unusual whining or vibration from the transmission tunnel, as the high-mileage nature of this vehicle means these mechanical assemblies have been subjected to a higher volume of operational cycles than the age of the car might otherwise suggest.