2018 Dacia Sandero 1.0L Petrol · SC18 TPF

As a seasoned UK automotive inspector evaluating this 2018 Dacia Sandero, I can confirm that the vehicle successfully passed its most recent MOT test on August 19, 2026, with zero defects recorded. Reviewing the overall MOT history reveals a very stable maintenance trend, characterized by consistent first-time passes across almost every year of its life. The single exception occurred in August 2024 when the car failed initially due to a minor headlamp aim adjustment, which was promptly rectified for a same-day pass. This clean record indicates that the previous owners have maintained the vehicle to a satisfactory standard, with no chronic structural or mechanical neglect evident in the official DVSA testing data. The recorded mileage stands at 19,680 miles, which translates to an average of roughly 2,460 miles per year over its eight-year life. This represents exceptionally low annual usage for a modern hatchback, suggesting the vehicle has spent significant periods parked or utilized strictly for very short local journeys. While low mileage often implies that major drivetrain components have experienced minimal physical wear, infrequent use and prolonged standing introduce their own unique set of mechanical concerns, particularly regarding environmental degradation of rubber components, brake efficiency, and fluid longevity. Given this low-mileage and lightly used profile, a prospective buyer must conduct thorough physical checks during a viewing. The 2021 MOT history noted cracking at the tread areas across all four tyres. Because rubber naturally perishes and hardens over time regardless of tread depth, you should carefully inspect the sidewalls and tread blocks of the currently fitted tyres for deep perishing, fine cracking, and manufacturing date codes older than five or six years. Furthermore, vehicles that sit for extended periods are prone to severe surface corrosion on brake discs and binding brake calipers due to a lack of active hydraulic movement. During your test drive, listen closely for any grinding noises or vibration through the brake pedal, and ensure the vehicle pulls up straight without the handbrake sticking. You should also verify that routine maintenance has been performed on a time-based schedule rather than strictly by mileage, as engine oil degrades over time even if the car covers negligible distance. Inspect the service history for annual oil and filter changes, check the 12V battery for its cranking strength during a cold start, and look under the bonnet for any signs of fluid leaks or perished coolant hoses. On the road, pay attention to the suspension over speed bumps, listening for any knocks or groans from aging rubber suspension bushes that may have stiffened and cracked while the vehicle was standing idle.