2014 Dacia Sandero 1.5L Diesel · SD14 NGX

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a shift toward developing wear-related issues. The most recent test in December 2024 at 67,711 miles was a pass despite advisories regarding pitted front brake discs and slight play in the nearside front suspension arm ball joint. This represents a progression from the February 2022 failure where the same ball joint was deemed excessively worn, suggesting that suspension components are now reaching the end of their service. At 12 years old, the recorded 67,711 miles represent a low annual usage rate of approximately 5,600 miles. This low-mile profile generally benefits the engine and gearbox, though it often leads to accelerated degradation of rubber components and corrosion due to inactivity. Between February 2022 and December 2024, the vehicle covered 22,794 miles, which shows a consistent but moderate usage pattern. The gap between tests is standard, though the lack of recorded service history suggests the car may have been maintained between these annual intervals. A buyer must physically inspect the front suspension, specifically the ball joints, which have appeared as a recurring fault over three years. The 2024 advisory on pitted front brake discs, combined with the 2022 failure for a binding offside rear brake and poor parking brake efficiency, indicates the braking system is prone to corrosion or seizing from low use. Check for any lateral caliper movement and ensure the parking brake is properly adjusted to overcome the previous efficiency failures. Additionally, the 2023 failure for ineffective wipers highlights that basic consumable items are occasionally overlooked until they fail a test.