2016 Dacia Duster 1.5L Diesel · SA66 OSO

The most recent MOT test on 21 May 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance history indicates a concerning trend of neglect regarding consumable components. While the vehicle has successfully passed its recent inspections, the frequency of failures and the recurring nature of specific advisories suggest a reactive rather than proactive approach to maintenance. The history shows a pattern of failing on dangerous tyre tread depths and significant braking system issues, including parking brake efficiency and ABS faults. Although the most recent result is a pass, the accumulation of multiple tyre advisories and persistent brake disc issues suggests that the vehicle is approaching a period where several significant maintenance items will require immediate attention to ensure continued roadworthiness. With 70,784 miles recorded over approximately ten years, this Dacia Duster has averaged roughly 7,078 miles per year. This is considered low to moderate annual mileage, which typically implies less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain compared to high-mileage motorway vehicles. However, this specific usage profile, combined with the recorded MOT history, suggests the vehicle may have been subject to short, infrequent trips or periods of standing. Such usage patterns can lead to specific mechanical issues, such as moisture accumulation in the exhaust system, battery degradation, and the development of surface corrosion on brake discs, which is consistent with the repeated advisories for pitted or scored front brake discs seen throughout the inspection history. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the braking system and tyre condition during a physical inspection and test drive. The repeated advisories for worn, pitted, or scored front brake discs, alongside previous major failures regarding parking brake efficiency and ABS faults, indicate that the braking components are nearing the end of their service life. During a test drive, listen for any grinding noises when applying the brakes, feel for any pulsating or shuddering through the brake pedal, and check for any pulling to one side which could indicate a binding caliper. Furthermore, the most recent MOT recorded advisories for all four tyres being worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edges. This suggests a need to inspect the tyre sidewalls for uneven wear patterns, which could point to underlying suspension issues such as worn bushes or misaligned geometry, and to verify that the tyres are not perishing due to age despite the relatively low mileage. Beyond the recorded defects, the age of the vehicle necessitates a thorough check of time-sensitive components. Given the low annual mileage, you should inspect the rubber components, such as suspension bushes, engine mounts, and various coolant hoses, for signs of cracking or perishing. It is also advisable to verify the service history to ensure that fluid changes, specifically engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, have been carried out on a calendar basis rather than solely on mileage intervals, as fluids degrade over time regardless of distance travelled. Finally, check the condition of the 12V battery and the integrity of the underside for any signs of structural corrosion or fluid leaks from the engine or gearbox, which can often be exacerbated by vehicles that are not driven frequently.