2015 Dacia Duster 1.5L Diesel · RG53 BEL

The latest MOT test on the 2015 Dacia Duster recorded a passing result with several advisories and one minor defect, indicating a stable but not entirely flawless maintenance record. While there have been no failures in the past six years, the recurring advisories on brake discs—both front near and offside sides showing wear, pitting, and corrosion—suggest a pattern of gradual degradation that has persisted across multiple MOTs. The nearside front drive shaft CV boot failure recorded in 2026 is a critical minor defect, as its deterioration could lead to oil leaks, reduced drivetrain protection, or even catastrophic joint failure if left unaddressed. The absence of failures in earlier years, combined with the consistent presence of wear-related advisories, implies a maintenance trend that has not yet escalated to critical levels but warrants proactive attention. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 67,513 miles over approximately 11 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,138 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the presence of several advisories—particularly those related to tyre wear and brake discs—could be influenced by higher-than-average usage or less-than-optimal driving habits, such as aggressive braking or uneven load distribution. The rear tyre cracking or perishing recorded in 2022, alongside the front tyre edge wear in 2024 and 2026, suggests potential underinflation, overuse of the brakes, or prolonged periods of static storage, which can accelerate tyre degradation. The absence of significant mileage spikes or long gaps in usage does not entirely rule out these factors, so a thorough inspection of tyre condition and driving behaviour would be prudent. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent actions should focus on the CV boot and brake system due to their critical safety implications. The severely deteriorated nearside front CV boot should be replaced immediately to prevent oil leaks into the drivetrain, which could compromise the joint’s integrity and lead to costly repairs or loss of power transfer. During inspection, listen for a metallic clunking noise when accelerating or changing gears, particularly on rough roads, as this indicates boot failure. Additionally, check for oil leaks under the vehicle around the CV joint area and inspect the boot for cracks or tears. The worn and corroded brake discs, particularly on the front offside and nearside, require monitoring. On a test drive, pay attention to brake pedal pulsation, uneven stopping distances, or a spongy feel, which may signal warped or binding discs. If the discs are not replaced soon, the risk of brake failure or reduced stopping efficiency increases. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and fluid components. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the rubber and compromise safety. Check tyre tread depth uniformly across all four tyres, as the advisories suggest some wear has already neared the legal limit. Verify that the tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and that there are no signs of uneven wear patterns, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues. The battery should be tested for voltage and overall health, as standing vehicles can lead to corrosion or discharge over time. Inspect the battery terminals for signs of rust or corrosion, and consider a load test if the battery is over a decade old. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, check the service book for any remaining fluid replacements required, such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, which degrade over time even when not used. Calendar-based servicing is particularly important for fluids like brake fluid, which can absorb moisture and become ineffective if left beyond their recommended service intervals.