2016 Dacia Sandero 1.5L Diesel · SA66 RRX

The most recent MOT history for this 2016 Dacia Sandero reveals a concerning pattern of test failures despite no recorded defects. The vehicle failed twice in December 2025—once on the same day—before passing the subsequent test on the 18th, suggesting either a temporary administrative error or a last-minute correction rather than genuine mechanical rectification. The preceding failure in December 2024 also occurred just seven days before passing, with identical mileage figures (83,659 vs. 83,735), implying a rushed or incomplete inspection process. This inconsistency undermines confidence in the vehicle’s true roadworthiness, particularly as the most recent pass occurred just seven months ago—well within the MOT’s one-year validity window but raising questions about whether critical components were overlooked or inadequately addressed. The mileage progression of approximately 9,500 miles annually aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the abrupt jumps between tests—such as the 10,000-mile increase between December 2024 and December 2025—could indicate either rapid resale activity or inconsistent maintenance scheduling. Notably, the 2023 test at 76,701 miles marks the only clean pass without adjacent failures, suggesting the vehicle may have undergone more thorough servicing or repairs prior to that period. The lack of advisories or defects in any test further obscures potential underlying issues, but the repeated failures without explanation demand closer scrutiny of components prone to intermittent faults, such as brake caliper binding or suspension wear. Given the history, a prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the brake system, particularly the rear calipers and discs, as binding or uneven wear is often flagged without clear MOT defects. The suspension—including coil springs, bushes, and dampers—should be examined for uneven wear or corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and subframe mounts, where rust can compromise structural integrity. Tyre condition warrants immediate attention, as the repeated failures (without recorded defects) may hint at inconsistent tread depth or sidewall damage. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions controls should be checked for leaks or catalytic converter degradation, as these are common sources of test failures that may not always manifest as overt defects. The absence of advisories does not preclude latent issues, so thorough visual and functional testing is essential.