2023 Dacia Sandero Stepway Essential TCE 1.0L Petrol · SA23 VMM

The vehicle successfully passed its first MOT test on 26 March 2026, which serves as a positive indicator of its overall structural integrity and mechanical health during its initial years of operation. Given that this was the car's first statutory inspection, the maintenance trend is currently stable. While the test resulted in two advisories, these are focused on consumable components rather than systemic mechanical failures, suggesting that the vehicle has been treated reasonably well and has not suffered from significant neglect or major component degradation since leaving the factory. The recorded mileage of 16,410 miles over approximately three years equates to an annual average of roughly 5,470 miles. This is considered low usage for a modern vehicle, which typically benefits the drivetrain by reducing total hours of engine operation and wear on transmission internals. However, lower mileage profiles can sometimes lead to issues associated with periods of inactivity, such as brake disc surface corrosion or the premature aging of rubber components. Prospective buyers should view this mileage as an opportunity to secure a vehicle with minimal wear, provided that the lower usage has not resulted in neglected time-based maintenance intervals. The advisories noted for the nearside front and rear tyres regarding cracking or perishing are significant, as they indicate that the rubber compounds are beginning to degrade despite the relatively low mileage. You should inspect the sidewalls of all four tyres closely for signs of dry rot or micro-cracking, particularly if the vehicle has been parked outdoors for extended periods. During your test drive, listen for any abnormal road noise or vibration that could suggest uneven tyre wear or structural deformation. If the tyres are original, they may be approaching the end of their safe service life regardless of the remaining tread depth, and you should factor the cost of a potential full set of replacements into your offer. Beyond the tyre condition, the low usage profile necessitates a thorough check of the braking system and the battery. Vehicles that sit for long durations can develop surface corrosion on brake discs, which may manifest as a grinding sensation or shuddering under braking until the pads clear the surface. Ensure the handbrake holds firmly on an incline and that the pedal feel is firm rather than spongy, which could indicate moisture ingress in the brake fluid. Furthermore, verify the service history to ensure that time-based maintenance, such as oil changes and brake fluid flushes, has been performed according to the manufacturer schedule, as calendar-based degradation is just as critical as mileage-based wear for a vehicle of this age.