2015 Dacia Sandero 1.5L Diesel · SC15 BYB

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2015 Dacia Sandero, conducted on 5 September 2023, resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory roadworthiness standards at that point. However, the history available is notably sparse and somewhat irregular; a pass on 2 August 2022 was followed by an unexplained failure just four days later on 1 September 2023, before the car subsequently passed four days after that. The absence of any recorded defects on both the failed test and the subsequent pass is unusual and suggests either an administrative anomaly, a very minor advisory that was rectified immediately, or a tester-specific judgement. With no recorded advisories or defect categories, it is difficult to establish a clear maintenance trend, but the overall picture is one of borderline compliance that warrants careful physical inspection rather than reliance on a clean digital record. In terms of mileage, this Sandero has covered 107,307 miles over approximately eleven years, equating to an annual average of around 9,755 miles. This figure sits firmly within the typical range for a vehicle of this age and is neither excessively high nor indicative of neglect through long-term standing. The relatively even accumulation suggests the car has been used as a regular daily driver, which is generally favourable for mechanical longevity, particularly for components such as the drivetrain, brakes, and exhaust system, which benefit from regular operation rather than prolonged inactivity. There is no evidence in the MOT history of significant mileage gaps between tests, which supports the impression of consistent use. Given the age and mileage of this vehicle, and the limited MOT defect history available, a prospective buyer should approach the purchase with a strong emphasis on age-related wear rather than relying solely on the absence of recorded advisories. The tyres warrant close scrutiny for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds degrade with calendar age regardless of tread remaining; check the production date on the sidewall and ensure there is no ozone cracking or bulging. The braking system, particularly the front discs and calipers, should be inspected for corrosion around the disc edges and for any signs of binding or seized slider mechanisms, which can develop even on regularly driven cars. Given the car is over a decade old, the 12V battery is likely approaching the end of its service life, and a load test or date-code check is advisable, especially as the Sandero has relatively basic electrical demands but a weak battery can cause starting issues and erratic sensor behaviour. Beyond these items, attention should turn to the fluids and service items that degrade over time rather than mileage, including brake fluid, coolant, and the timing belt or cam belt interval, which on Dacia petrol engines of this era is typically due every five to six years and may now be overdue. On a test drive, listen for any suspension clonks or knocks over speed bumps and uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, or coil spring seats; these are common wear points on higher-mileage superminis. Inspect the underside and wheel arches for corrosion, paying particular attention to the suspension subframes, brake lines, and exhaust mounting points, as Dacia vehicles of this generation can suffer from surface oxidation. Finally, verify the service book history independently, confirm the cam belt replacement record, and ensure that any diagnostic warning lights are addressed before purchase, as the MOT record alone does not provide the full picture of this vehicle's mechanical condition.