2016 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · NX16 XKM

This Dacia Sandero presents a mixed maintenance picture. The most recent MOT on 17 February 2026 at 49,230 miles resulted in a pass, but only after an initial failure on the same day flagged a severely deteriorated offside front CV joint boot and a headlamp aim defect. The overall trend is one of recurring neglect followed by reactive repair rather than proactive upkeep. Corrosion advisories on the rear suspension and front sub-frame have persisted across multiple tests without evidence of remedial work, and tyre condition advisories appear repeatedly, suggesting consumable maintenance has been inconsistent. The vehicle has covered just 49,230 miles over roughly ten years, averaging approximately 4,923 miles per year, which is notably low for its age. The mileage progression shows a jump from 39,650 miles in January 2024 to 45,352 miles by February 2025, representing 5,702 miles in just over twelve months, before climbing only 3,878 miles in the subsequent twelve months to February 2026. This pattern suggests a period of increased use followed by lighter running, though the low annual average overall raises the possibility of extended periods standing, which can contribute to the corrosion and perishing issues noted on tyres and suspension components. The recurring corrosion advisories on the rear suspension component and front sub-frame, flagged in both the February 2025 and February 2026 tests as "corroded but not seriously weakened," warrant close physical inspection. Surface corrosion on structural components can escalate rapidly if left untreated, particularly on sub-frame mounting points and suspension arms. A buyer should have the underside examined on a ramp to assess whether the corrosion has progressed beyond superficial surface rust into structural weakening, particularly around welds and bush locations. The repeated tyre advisories, including perishing, edge wear, a nail puncture, and a previous structural tear on the nearside rear, point to irregular tyre maintenance and possible alignment or suspension geometry concerns. The worn front brake disc and pads recorded in the January 2024 failure were rectified before the pass, but the binding or uneven wear pattern suggested by recurring tyre defects means the front suspension and braking system should be inspected for worn tracking, sticking calipers, or deteriorating suspension bushes. The CV boot failure, which also appeared in the January 2024 failure before being replaced, indicates drivetrain components have been left to deteriorate to the point of failure rather than being serviced preventatively.