2017 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · SL17 CZD

The Dacia Sandero’s most recent MOT test on 2026-07-24 shows a concerning pattern of instability, with two consecutive failures in April 2025—just two days apart—before passing the following month. The absence of recorded defects in either failure suggests the issues were likely minor but persistent, such as binding brakes or minor emissions faults that required repeated testing. The most recent pass in April 2025, at 17,237 miles, indicates the vehicle was cleared without major concerns, but the proximity of the failures raises questions about whether underlying issues were addressed properly or if the tester overlooked critical components. The lack of advisories in any test further complicates assessment, as this implies either diligent maintenance or a failure to document pre-existing wear. The recorded mileage of 17,237 miles over nine years—roughly 1,915 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting either limited use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The gap between tests is consistent at one year, but the abrupt failures in April 2025 stand out, occurring at nearly identical mileages (17,235 and 17,237). This could imply a sudden mechanical issue emerged around that time, or it may reflect a lack of pre-test servicing. The previous tests in 2023 and 2024 show no failures, reinforcing the idea that the vehicle was generally reliable until the recent instability. The low mileage also means consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension bushes may have been replaced less frequently than recommended, increasing the risk of wear-related failures. Given the recent MOT history, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and discs, as binding brakes were likely the cause of the repeated failures. The suspension—including coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers—should be examined for uneven wear or corrosion, especially if the vehicle has spent extended periods stationary. Tyre tread depth and uniformity warrant close scrutiny, as the low mileage may mask deeper issues like internal damage or improper inflation. Structural integrity, particularly around wheel arches and sills, should also be checked for corrosion, as rust can compromise safety without immediate MOT failure. The absence of advisories in past tests makes it harder to predict hidden problems, so a thorough mechanical review is essential.