2016 Dacia Sandero 1.5L Diesel · SD16 LXT

A recurring pattern of tyre and suspension-related defects dominates the MOT history of this 2016 Dacia Sandero, with the September 2024 test producing a fail driven by two dangerous defects: a nearside rear tyre with ply or cords exposed and a broken offside front anti-roll bar linkage deemed likely to become detached. The same anti-roll bar component category and tyre condition issues have appeared in some form across every test since 2022, suggesting these are not isolated incidents but persistent wear points on the vehicle. The 2023 cycle mirrors this trend, with a fail issued in early September 2023 for an offside front tyre below the 1.6mm tread threshold before a retest two days later recorded a pass with the same items carried forward as advisories. The brake disc pitting advisories first noted in 2022 have likewise persisted into 2023, indicating a front braking system that has been on a gradual decline rather than showing improvement. Against this backdrop, the most recent advisory regarding light oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber is a notable addition to the record and warrants close attention given the cumulative age of the front suspension components. Recorded mileage stands at 82,747 miles across approximately ten years of service, equating to an average annual accumulation of around 8,275 miles, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no extended gaps in the MOT testing history to suggest prolonged periods off the road, and the consistency of annual testing implies the vehicle has remained in regular use. This level of mileage, while not excessive, places meaningful demand on consumable items such as tyres, brake components, and suspension bushes, all of which are showing wear in the recorded test data. The combination of consistent annual mileage and recurring component advisories points to a chassis and undercarriage that has absorbed steady rather than severe use, but one where the cumulative effect is now becoming evident at component level. For a prospective buyer, the priority inspection areas are clearly defined by the MOT record. The front brake discs should be examined for lipping, surface scoring, and any pulsing felt through the brake pedal under firm application, as both discs have been flagged as pitted across multiple tests. On the test drive, listen for clonks or knocking from the front suspension over uneven road surfaces, particularly on the nearside where the shock absorber has been recorded as misting oil, as this indicates accelerated wear of the damping element and may soon require replacement. Pay particular attention to the anti-roll bar linkage condition on both sides; with a component having previously failed on the offside, the nearside should be inspected for play or deteriorated bushes, and any looseness transmitted through the body during cornering would suggest the link bar is approaching the end of its service life. Tyre condition demands close scrutiny on any vehicle with this history. The record shows tread depth and sidewall integrity issues at all four corners across consecutive tests, including dangerous cord exposure at the rear and edge wear at the front. Inspect the sidewalls for cracking or perishing, particularly on the rear pair, and check for uneven shoulder wear which would point to suspension geometry misalignment or worn bushings. On the road, any pulling to one side under braking, vibration through the steering wheel, or a general deterioration in ride quality over bumps should be treated as confirmation that further suspension or tyre expenditure is imminent. Given the cumulative advisory pattern, budgeting for a full set of tyres, fresh front brake discs and pads, and at minimum replacement of the anti-roll bar linkages would represent prudent preparation for ongoing ownership.