2019 Dacia Duster 1.0L Petrol · RO69 OGG

The most recent MOT inspection for this 2019 Dacia Duster resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's recent history indicates a concerning trend of neglected maintenance and safety-critical failures. While the vehicle passed in November 2025, the preceding test just six days prior was a dangerous failure due to critically worn front brake pads. The recurring nature of brake-related advisories and failures, alongside multiple tyre-related issues, suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to servicing. The maintenance trajectory is currently unstable, as the vehicle has frequently required major or dangerous interventions to meet minimum legal standards, rather than being maintained through regular scheduled intervals. With a recorded mileage of 37,359 miles over approximately seven years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 5,337 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, which typically suggests lighter usage or perhaps extended periods of standing. While low mileage can imply less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it often introduces different risks, such as component degradation due to inactivity. In this specific case, the low annual mileage aligns with the observed tyre perishing and the pitting of the brake discs, which are common symptoms of a vehicle that is not driven frequently enough to prevent surface corrosion or to keep rubber compounds supple. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the braking system during a test drive. The history of thin pads and pitted or scored discs indicates that the front braking assembly is nearing the end of its serviceable life. You should listen for any grinding noises during deceleration, feel for any pulsation or shudder through the brake pedal, which could indicate warped discs, and check for any pulling to one side which might suggest a binding caliper. Given the recent failure for dangerously thin pads, you should verify that the front brake pads and discs have been fully replaced with new components rather than just being topped up, and ensure the service history confirms this work was carried out. The tyre condition is another significant area of concern that requires immediate scrutiny. The MOT record explicitly notes a nearside rear tyre that is heavily split, cracked, and perished. This type of sidewall degradation is a direct result of age and ozone exposure, common in low-usage vehicles, and poses a risk of sudden structural failure. You should inspect all four tyres for similar signs of perishing, including cracks in the sidewalls or between the tread blocks, regardless of how much tread depth remains. Additionally, because the vehicle has likely spent time standing, you should check the 12V battery health, inspect the underside for surface corrosion on suspension bushes and coil springs, and confirm that all fluids have been changed based on the calendar year rather than just mileage.