2013 Dacia Logan 1.5L Diesel · SH63 HHS

The 2013 Dacia Logan presents a mixed roadworthiness profile marked by an otherwise clean service history interrupted by a serious failure in May 2023 that required immediate attention. The vehicle successfully passed its MOT examinations from 2021 through 2022 with no recorded defects, and resumed a consistent pass streak from 2024 onward including a June 2025 test. However, the May 2023 failure stands out as the most significant event in the record, citing dangerously thin front brake pad material below the 1.5 mm minimum requirement and an insecurely attached nearside front anti-roll bar linkage classified as a major safety concern. While the latest test in mid-2025 returned a pass, the lingering advisory flags from earlier years indicate unresolved issues that could affect long-term reliability if not properly addressed. At 109,202 miles on a thirteen-year-old chassis, the vehicle has accumulated approximately 8,400 miles annually, which aligns with normal wear expectations for its age. The gap between the April 2022 pass and the May 2023 failure represents a particularly concerning period where no intervention occurred until nearly two years later, suggesting potential acceleration of component wear following the identified problems. The absence of MOT entries between 2023 and 2025 indicates extended intervals without professional verification, which may have allowed minor issues to progress undetected. When combined with the failure to resolve both the brake pad thickness and anti-roll bar attachment within that timeframe, the usage pattern suggests moderate driving exposure rather than extreme mileage, yet the underlying structural and braking deficiencies remain relevant to current roadworthiness. The front brake system warrants particular scrutiny given the 2023 failure documented when pads measured under 1.5 mm thickness, indicating accelerated wear that likely compromised stopping performance. During a test drive, the buyer should monitor for prolonged pedal travel, vibration through the brake pedal assembly, or pulsations when applying pressure on hard stops, especially when approaching corners at normal speed. Additionally, the nearside front anti-roll bar linkage that was found insecurely attached in May 2023 should be checked for signs of play or looseness during the test; excessive movement in this component can transmit vibrations up through the chassis and contribute to steering instability or handling irregularities. A visual inspection of the rear bumper damage noted on the 2025 MOT also merits examination for paint coverage and structural integrity, as corroded or damaged subframes can compromise overall vehicle stability. Beyond the highlighted components, the rear bumper damage reported in the 2025 MOT should be assessed for whether it extends beyond cosmetic surface contact or affects mounting hardware. If the rear bumper frame shows rust penetration or if the mounting bolts exhibit signs of corrosion, this could indicate broader subframe deterioration that may require additional investigation. Given the progression from a clean pre-2023 record to a serious failure and back to intermittent passes, the buyer should treat the anti-roll bar and brake system as high-priority items that have not been fully resolved, regardless of the interim successful MOTs. A thorough hands-on inspection of the brake caliper mounts, rotor condition, and anti-roll bar clamp points will provide concrete assurance that the vehicle meets acceptable roadworthiness standards before purchase.