2021 Dacia Sandero Comfort TCE 1.0L Petrol · OV71 LDN

The 2021 Dacia Sandero Comfort TCE’s latest DVSA MOT test on 2025-11-10 resulted in a clean pass, with no recorded defects or advisories. This follows a prior MOT in 2024-11-08, which also passed but included a single advisory regarding the offside front tyre exhibiting significant lateral wear, approaching the legal limit and indicative of directional drift or misalignment. The absence of subsequent failures or additional advisories over the intervening year suggests a stable maintenance trend, though the offside tyre advisory remains a notable point of concern. The vehicle’s consistent MOT compliance implies that while minor issues may exist, they have not progressed to a point where roadworthiness is compromised. However, the advisory warrants further investigation to prevent potential tyre failure or alignment-related wear on other components. The recorded mileage of 25,102 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 5,020 miles per annum. Such a mileage profile is atypical for a car of this age, particularly given that many similar models accumulate significantly more miles annually, often exceeding 10,000 miles per year. The low mileage could reflect periods of inactivity, such as prolonged standing in a garage or limited operational use, which may contribute to wear patterns distinct from those seen in high-mileage vehicles. However, low mileage alone does not guarantee absence of hidden issues, especially if the vehicle has been exposed to environmental factors like damp or salt, which can accelerate corrosion or fluid degradation over time. The advisory on the offside front tyre, combined with the low usage rate, raises questions about whether the vehicle has been driven frequently enough to reveal underlying mechanical wear, or if the tyre’s condition is a result of prolonged standing or minor alignment drift. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination of this Dacia Sandero Comfort TCE are the suspension system and tyre alignment, particularly given the offside tyre advisory. Begin by examining the offside front tyre for signs of uneven wear beyond the advisory, such as central or directional patterns, which could indicate steering or alignment issues. Listen for any unusual noises during a test drive, particularly clunking or rattling from the front suspension, which may suggest worn suspension bushes, broken coil spring mounts, or damaged control arms. Check for fluid leaks around the front wheels, as oil or brake fluid leaks could exacerbate tyre wear or compromise steering stability. Additionally, inspect the front suspension components for corrosion or excessive play, as standing in damp conditions can accelerate rusting of suspension mounts and linkages. Beyond the suspension, focus on the vehicle’s structural integrity and fluid condition, given its age and low mileage. Check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can occur even with low mileage if the vehicle has been stored in suboptimal conditions. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged inactivity can lead to battery discharge or corrosion of terminals, particularly if the vehicle has been left unused for extended periods. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on the discs and linings, or binding calipers, which can develop from prolonged standing. Fluid checks are also essential, including the brake fluid reservoir, which should be topped up and free of contamination, as brake fluid degrades over time even when unused. The coolant system should be checked for leaks or corrosion, and the engine oil should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, as oil can thicken and lose its lubricating properties over time. Finally, verify that the service book or maintenance records are up to date, particularly for the timing belt, if applicable, as Dacia models often require this component replaced at specific mileage or calendar intervals.