2017 Dacia Sandero 1.0L Petrol · SA67 FHO

The latest DVSA examination on 7 November 2025 recorded a PASS outcome, with two advisories noted: a rear child seat fitted that prevented full inspection of the adult belt, and an oil leak deemed not excessive. Looking across the recent MOT history, the vehicle has demonstrated a broadly stable pattern with no repeat major or dangerous defects, though there is a notable cluster of minor issues relating to washer system performance, headlamp aim, tyre wear, and engine oil seepage that have surfaced at various intervals. The presence of the same oil leak advisory across two tests approximately three years apart suggests a persistent but slow seepage rather than an acute failure, and a buyer should monitor its progression. The general trajectory, however, is improving, as the 2025 test passed cleanly without the PRS (repair as soon as possible) issues that affected earlier attempts in 2022 and 2023. With 37,669 recorded miles over nine years, this Dacia Sandero has covered approximately 4,185 miles annually, which is well below the typical usage rate for a vehicle of this age. This low-mileage profile indicates either genuine light use or, more likely, extended periods of standing between journeys, both of which carry their own mechanical implications. Prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion on brake discs due to surface rust, lead to binding or seized brake calipers from infrequent actuation, degrade the 12V battery through chronic undercharging, and cause drying or hardening of rubber components such as suspension bushes, coolant hoses, and drivetrain seals. Conversely, the relatively modest mileage means wear items such as the clutch, gearbox, engine internals, and bulk suspension components are unlikely to be heavily stressed, which is a positive factor for longevity. Given the recurring advisories across multiple MOT tests, several specific areas warrant close physical inspection prior to purchase. The persistent oil leak, flagged in 2022 and again in 2025, should be investigated for its source, common candidates on this model being the cam cover gasket, sump gasket, or front crankshaft seal, and a buyer should look for fresh oil residue on the engine block, sump, and surrounding undertray components, as well as check the oil level on the dipstick for any unexpected reduction. The 2022 advisory concerning nearside front brake disc wear and pitting suggests attention to the braking system; during a test drive, listen for any grinding, squealing, or pulsing through the brake pedal that might indicate lipping, corrosion scoring, or caliper slider issues. Tyre condition should also be carefully assessed, as advisories in 2021 noted perishing cracking across all four tyres and edge wear was flagged in 2024, so inspect the sidewalls for age-related cracking and verify even tread wear across both axles. Additionally, the intermittent washer non-function and headlamp aim issues should be verified as fully rectified, and any dashboard malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) should be confirmed as inactive at start-up. Beyond the recorded advisories, several age- and usage-related checks are strongly advisable for a nine-year-old, low-mileage vehicle such as this. Even if not flagged at MOT, the brake discs are highly likely to exhibit surface corrosion from standing; on a test drive, apply the brakes firmly from around 30 mph and listen for any juddering or pulsation that would indicate uneven disc surfaces or thickness variation. Examine the condition and state of charge of the 12V battery, as low-mileage vehicles frequently suffer from a weakened battery that may pass casual inspection but fail under load. Confirm the timing belt replacement interval, as the 1.0 SCe or TCe engines fitted to the 2017 Sandero typically require renewal around the six-year or 60,000-mile mark, and verify whether this has been documented in the service history. Check all fluid levels and condition, particularly the brake fluid, which degrades hygroscopically over time and ideally should be renewed every two to three years regardless of mileage, and the coolant, which similarly loses its corrosion-inhibiting properties through age. Finally, inspect the underside for corrosion, paying particular attention to the wheel arches, suspension components, exhaust hangers, and any structural seams, as Dacia vehicles of this era utilise cost-effective coatings that can deteriorate on vehicles used predominantly for short urban journeys or left standing in damp conditions.