2018 Dacia Sandero 1.5L Diesel · PS55 WAS

The most recent MOT on 20 July 2026 recorded a pass, with only prerequisite (PRS) failures for ineffective windscreen wiping and low headlamp aim. Earlier in the same year the vehicle also passed without any recorded defects, and the preceding year’s test was clean. The only major failure in the history was the 25 June 2024 test where the front windscreen washer was inoperative, a fault that appears to have been rectified as the 2025 and 2026 tests show no major defects. Overall the maintenance trend is improving, moving from a significant washer fault in 2024 to a clean record apart from minor advisory items in the latest test. At eight years old the Dacia Sandero has logged 53,675 miles, averaging roughly 6,700 miles per annum. This is well within the normal usage envelope for a small family hatchback and suggests the car has not been subjected to excessive short‑trip abuse or high‑speed highway wear. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would indicate long periods of inactivity, so the wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads and suspension components should be proportionate to the recorded distance rather than to calendar age alone. The recurring windscreen washer and wiper issues merit a focused inspection. Verify that the washer pump delivers fluid to the nozzles, that the hoses are free of cracks, and that the spray pattern covers the entire windscreen. Test the wipers at low and high speeds for smooth, even clearing; any streaking, chatter or incomplete clearing may indicate worn blades or a weak motor. For the headlamp aim, observe the illumination on a flat surface at night; the beams should be centred and not excessively low, as under‑aim can reduce visibility and cause glare to oncoming traffic. Adjust the aim if necessary and check that the bulbs are the correct type and free of clouding. While these items are advisory, they are inexpensive to remedy and improve safety. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough visual and tactile inspection should complement the MOT record. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or age‑related hardening, especially if the DOT code indicates they are older than six years, and confirm that tread depth meets the legal minimum. Inspect the 12 V battery for corrosion on terminals and test its cranking voltage, as batteries left idle for extended periods can lose capacity. Check the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven wear, and ensure the pads have sufficient thickness and that the calipers move freely without binding. Look at the suspension bushes, control arm joints and coil springs for signs of leakage, cracked rubber or excessive play, which can manifest as clunking over bumps. Finally, confirm that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed at the recommended intervals (typically every 12,000 miles or two years for oil, two‑year intervals for brake fluid) and that any service book stamps correspond to the recorded mileage. Addressing these points will give a prospective buyer a clear picture of the Sandero’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance requirements.