2020 Dacia Duster 1.0L Petrol · SH19 KEZ

The most recent MOT test on 2026-06-11 resulted in a passing outcome, indicating that the vehicle has met all current roadworthiness standards at that time. However, the preceding MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and minor failures, particularly concerning the front brakes, windscreen wipers, and tyre wear. While the latest test did not flag any major defects, the consistent presence of brake pad and disc advisories from 2025 onwards suggests a gradual but persistent wear issue that may warrant closer attention. The failure of the offside front wiper in 2025 and 2024 indicates a potential design or installation flaw that has not been rectified, which could lead to further inefficiency or safety concerns if left unaddressed. Overall, the maintenance trend appears stable in terms of passing the latest MOT, but the cumulative advisories suggest that the vehicle has not been fully serviced to address underlying wear and potential long-term issues. The recorded mileage of 31,935 miles for a 2020 Dacia Duster represents an annual usage rate of approximately 5,322 miles, which is notably lower than the typical wear rate for vehicles of this age and class. Such low mileage can stem from infrequent use, long periods of stationary storage, or a preference for alternative transportation methods. However, this usage profile does not necessarily equate to reduced wear on critical components. For instance, brakes and suspension components can still degrade over time due to static corrosion, particularly if the vehicle has been left exposed to the elements for extended periods. Additionally, fluid degradation—such as brake fluid, coolant, or transmission fluid—can occur regardless of mileage, especially if fluids have not been changed according to manufacturer recommendations. The absence of rapid mileage accumulation means that wear from driving conditions, such as potholes or aggressive braking, has not been a significant factor, but this does not eliminate the risk of silent deterioration from environmental factors or lack of maintenance. As a prospective buyer, the Dacia Duster’s recent MOT history and advisories necessitate a thorough inspection to mitigate potential future issues. Begin with the brakes, as the repeated advisories on brake pad wear and disc condition indicate that the system may be nearing or exceeding safe operational limits. Inspect the brake pads for even wear and listen for unusual noises, such as grinding or squeaking, during a test drive, particularly when applying the brakes from low speeds. Check for any signs of brake fluid leakage around the caliper pistons or brake lines, and verify that the brake discs are free from warping or scoring, which could suggest overheating or binding. The front wiper failures highlight a need to assess whether the wiper blades are properly installed or if the wiper mechanism itself is faulty. Test the wipers by moving them slowly and checking if they clear the windscreen effectively; if not, consider replacing them immediately to prevent reduced visibility during adverse weather. Beyond the MOT advisories, conduct a comprehensive physical inspection to address potential age-related and usage-specific concerns. Given the vehicle’s age and the low mileage, focus on the following checks: inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing, which can occur even with low mileage if the rubber has been exposed to prolonged heat or UV light. Look for cracks or flaking along the sidewalls, as this can compromise tyre integrity and safety. Check the tyre tread depth for uniformity and signs of uneven wear, which may indicate suspension or alignment issues. Verify the condition of the battery, as older vehicles can suffer from reduced capacity or corrosion in the terminals, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Test the battery’s charge by attempting to start the engine and listening for any unusual noises or stalling. Additionally, since the vehicle has not been serviced for fluid changes, inspect the fluid levels and condition of the brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil. Check for any signs of contamination or discolouration, as this can indicate fluid degradation. Finally, examine the suspension for signs of wear, such as excessive play in the steering or unusual clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may suggest worn suspension bushes or coil springs. Addressing these areas promptly will help ensure the vehicle remains safe and reliable in the long term.