2015 Dacia Sandero 1.1L Petrol · SE15 KFF

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a period of significant neglect followed by recent repairs. The most recent test in May 2024 at 86,517 miles passed with a single advisory for play in the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint. This represents a marked improvement over the major failure in May 2023, where the vehicle exhibited multiple mechanical and structural defects. While the car currently meets standards, the presence of suspension wear suggests that components are beginning to reach their service limit. At 86,517 miles over eleven years, the Sandero has averaged approximately 7,865 miles per year, which aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. The data shows a consistent usage pattern between 2021 and 2024, with the car covering roughly 19,000 miles in three years. However, the failure in May 2023 at 82,707 miles indicates a lapse in proactive maintenance, as basic items like wipers, horn, and registration plate lamps were ignored until the annual inspection. A buyer must prioritize inspecting the structural integrity of the offside front suspension mounting area. The 2023 failure flagged excessive corrosion that significantly reduced structural strength on the sill, which is a critical concern for an older Dacia. You should verify that this area has been properly treated or repaired rather than merely painted over. Additionally, the exhaust system and lambda sensor, which caused a major failure three years ago, should be checked to ensure no leaks have returned and that the emissions remain stable. The nearside ball joint should also be monitored for further play to prevent a future failure.