2019 Dacia Duster 1.6L Petrol · PL68 GZA

The most recent MOT test on this 2019 Dacia Duster, conducted on 6 March 2026, resulted in a PASS, although it was accompanied by an advisory noting corrosion to a suspension component not considered seriously weakened at that time. It is particularly noteworthy that this pass was achieved just one day after a previous test on 5 March 2026 resulted in a failure categorised with dangerous defects relating to the front brake pads and front brake disc, alongside major defects concerning excessive play in both front outer track rod end ball joints. The presence of two dangerous brake-related failures immediately preceding a pass strongly suggests that significant remedial work was undertaken between the two tests, rather than reflecting a genuine improvement in the vehicle's underlying mechanical condition. Reviewing the broader MOT history, the 2025 and 2023 tests were passed cleanly with no advisories or defects recorded, whilst the 2024 test carried advisories regarding slight damage, cracking, or perishing to three tyres. Overall, the maintenance trend cannot be considered stable; the sudden appearance of major steering and dangerous brake defects in early 2026 indicates a deterioration that warrants close inspection by any prospective buyer to verify the quality and completeness of the rectification work. With the vehicle now approximately seven years old and recording 48,762 miles, the average annual usage stands at roughly 6,966 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment. There are no anomalous gaps or sudden spikes in the recorded mileage across the MOT history that would suggest clocking irregularities or extended periods of standing. This level of usage means that mechanical wear on consumables such as brake components, tyres, and suspension bushes will be progressing at a steady and predictable rate, consistent with the type of brake and steering defects that have recently emerged. While the mileage is not exceptionally high, it is sufficient that components subjected to regular mechanical load, such as the front brake discs, pads, and steering linkages, will have accumulated meaningful wear, particularly given the recent evidence of premature degradation in these areas. Given the serious nature of the defects recorded on the March 2026 failure, a thorough physical inspection and verification of the rectification work should be considered essential before purchase. The dangerous front brake pad and disc failures indicate that braking performance had been severely reduced, and any prospective buyer should confirm that both front brake discs and pads have been replaced with new components rather than refurbished units, and should inspect the condition of the brake fluid for evidence of recent servicing. On a test drive, listen for any brake shudder or pulsation through the steering wheel under firm braking, which would indicate run-out or distortion of the front discs, and check for any pulling to one side under braking that might suggest a seized caliper or uneven pad wear. The replacement of both front outer track rod end ball joints is a significant steering intervention, and the work should be accompanied by a verified wheel alignment, as failure to realign following track rod replacement will cause uneven and rapid tyre wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges of the front tyres. On the test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed humps or uneven surfaces, and check for vagueness or wandering in the steering that could indicate incomplete repair or further wear in the steering or suspension linkages. In addition to addressing the specific defects, age- and usage-appropriate checks remain relevant for a vehicle approaching its seventh anniversary. The advisories recorded in 2024 regarding tyre cracking suggest the vehicle may have been parked for extended periods or stored in conditions promoting sidewall perishing, and all four tyres should be closely inspected for age-related cracking, particularly on the sidewalls, regardless of remaining tread depth. The 2026 advisory regarding suspension component corrosion, whilst not categorised as serious, indicates the early stages of structural degradation consistent with a vehicle of this age, and a thorough underbody inspection for advanced corrosion on subframes, brake lines, and suspension arms would be prudent, with particular attention paid to any rust that could compromise structural integrity. Finally, calendar-based servicing items should not be overlooked; verify the service book stamps to confirm that engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission oil have been changed at the manufacturer-recommended intervals, and inspect the condition of the 12-volt battery, as units beyond five years of age frequently present starting difficulties and electrical irregularities, particularly in vehicles with relatively modest annual mileage where short journeys prevent full charging cycles.