2017 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · PM09 PLM

The most recent DVSA test on 7 August 2026 returned a Pass, though three advisory items were recorded, namely perishing or cracking on both rear tyres and a worn anti-roll bar linkage pin or bush on the nearside front. While the vehicle remains legally roadworthy, this represents the third consecutive test cycle in which suspension component wear has been flagged, following a Dangerous defect in August 2024 for an insecure offside front anti-roll bar linkage. That earlier Dangerous failure is a significant point in the history, as it was a direct safety-related failure affecting directional stability, and the recurrence of similar anti-roll bar concerns two years later suggests that the underlying bushes and drop links have not been fully renewed. The overall trend is therefore one of stable but not improving maintenance, with the vehicle being kept on the road through repeated advisories rather than proactive renewal of wearing chassis parts. With 98,194 miles recorded over approximately nine years, this Sandero has covered an average of around 10,900 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and segment. The mileage history appears consistent without extended standing periods, which is mechanically favourable as it reduces the likelihood of severe brake disc corrosion, dried seals, and 12V battery degradation from inactivity. At this odometer reading, however, the engine, clutch, and gearbox have seen substantial use, and the cumulative wear on high-mileage consumables such as the timing belt, water pump, and suspension components should be reflected in the service history. A consistent annual mileage of this level also means the braking system, tyres, and front suspension geometry components have been worked steadily, which correlates well with the recurring advisories on front brake discs and tyres noted in 2025. The advisories for perishing on both rear tyres and worn front anti-roll bar bushes warrant close physical inspection before purchase. The rear tyres, despite being only slightly perished according to the examiner, should be examined for sidewall cracking, as Dacia Sandero tyres of this age can develop age-related degradation even with adequate tread depth. The nearside front anti-roll bar bush wear should be checked by pushing laterally on the bodywork at standstill to detect any slack, and on the test drive, listen for clonks or knocks over speed humps, cats-eyes, and uneven surfaces, as worn anti-roll bar bushes and drop links typically produce a metallic rattle or knock under load. Any vagueness in directional changes or a clunk when traversing undulating roads would confirm the advisories have progressed. The front brake disc wear advisories from 2024 and 2025 indicate the discs are nearing or have reached their minimum thickness, and a thorough check should include measuring disc thickness with a gauge or having a garage confirm remaining service life. The recorded front oil leak, noted as not excessive in 2024, is worth monitoring for progression by inspecting the underside for fresh oil residue and checking the oil level between services, as the 1.0 SCe or TCe units in the Sandero can develop sump gasket and cam cover seepage with age. Additionally, given the high mileage and nine-year service life, the buyer should verify the timing belt or chain replacement schedule has been observed, confirm recent brake fluid and coolant changes due to their calendar-based service intervals, and test the clutch for slipping or juddering under load, as these are common wear points on a high-mileage Sandero nearing the end of its typical component service life.