2019 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · SC68 HFX

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 1 December 2025, recorded a clean pass with no advisories or defects noted, which suggests the vehicle is currently in a roadworthy condition at the point of inspection. Evaluating the broader MOT history, the maintenance trend is broadly stable but punctuated by two significant failure events in 2022 and 2023 that warranted immediate rectification. The 2023 test recorded dangerous and major defects relating to the offside front anti-roll bar linkage and a missing offside rear coil spring, alongside advisories for tyres worn to their legal limit. The fact that a clean pass followed in late 2025 indicates these issues were likely remedied at the time, but they warrant careful verification during physical inspection to confirm quality repairs and the absence of residual suspension concerns. The recurrence of advisories across consecutive tests on related components suggests that consumable items, namely tyres and engine management systems, have been a recurring area of attention for this particular Sandero. With a recorded mileage of 55,832 miles over approximately seven years, this Dacia averages around 7,976 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment. This moderate usage rate suggests the car has experienced consistent running rather than prolonged periods of standing, which is generally beneficial for mechanical components such as the 12V battery, brake system, and drivetrain. However, the mileage accumulation is sufficient to warrant inspection of higher-wear items including brake pads, brake discs, and suspension components, all of which would have accumulated normal wear given the odometer reading. There are no records suggesting extreme annual mileage spikes or extended periods off the road that would raise particular concerns regarding standing deterioration. Given the advisory history, several areas merit close attention during a pre-purchase inspection. The 2023 advisories for perished rear tyres and front tyres worn close to the legal limit suggest the original rubber may have aged prematurely or been subject to uneven wear, possibly indicative of underlying tracking or suspension geometry issues, particularly following the previously noted anti-roll bar and coil spring defects. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which could signify worn anti-roll bar linkages, bushes, or dropped joints, and pay attention to any sagging at the rear that might indicate a weakened coil spring. Inspect all four tyres carefully for sidewall cracking, perishing, and uneven tread wear, particularly on the inner and outer edges, as this can suggest misalignment or worn suspension components. Further advisories to investigate include the 2024 entries for an inoperative high-level stop lamp and an illuminated engine management warning lamp. The stop lamp issue is a relatively minor electrical concern, likely a failed bulb or wiring fault, but it should be verified as fully functional. More significantly, the engine management lamp being illuminated at the time of test suggests a logged fault code that may persist or recur, possibly relating to emissions, a sensor fault, or an intermittent issue such as a lambda sensor or catalytic converter concern. A diagnostic scan prior to purchase is highly advisable to confirm whether any fault codes remain active or have been recently cleared. Additionally, given the vehicle age and mileage, ensure the timing belt or cam belt replacement schedule has been adhered to in line with Dacia manufacturer recommendations, that all fluid services including brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil are up to date, and that the brake discs and calipers show no signs of corrosion, binding, or uneven wear. Verify that the vehicle has a complete service history and that any previously replaced suspension components have been fitted with quality parts.