2016 Dacia Duster 1.2L Petrol · SO16 FMM

A generally stable roadworthiness record is balanced by a specific failure in July 2024 involving drivetrain and electrical components. This failure, which required the replacement of an offside drive shaft constant velocity boot and the repair of front position lamps, was resolved quickly to achieve a pass on July 31, 2024. The subsequent tests in July 2025 and May 2026 have been clean, indicating that the vehicle is currently meeting the required safety and environmental standards without any new defects or advisories. With 54,446 miles recorded over approximately ten years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 5,445 miles per year. This low annual accumulation suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to the high-wear stress typical of long-distance commuting. However, this usage pattern is reflected in the 2024 MOT advisories, where the rear tyres were flagged for cracking and perishing, a common occurrence when rubber components degrade due to age and low usage rather than tread wear. Attention should be directed toward the offside drive shaft and the front steering geometry. During a test drive, listen for rhythmic clicking or popping sounds when steering at full lock and accelerating, which would indicate a compromise in the constant velocity joint. Furthermore, the history of inner edge wear on the nearside front tyre, flagged in both 2020 and 2024, suggests a potential misalignment or worn suspension bushes. Feel for any steering pull or instability during straight-line driving that might indicate these issues persist. The recurring advisories regarding fitted under trays should be noted, as these can sometimes obstruct a full inspection of the chassis or become loose over time. Check that all under-body panels are securely fastened and listen for any rattling or wind noise emanating from beneath the vehicle at higher speeds. Finally, a physical inspection of the current tyre sidewalls is necessary to ensure that the perishing noted on the rear axle in 2024 has been fully rectified with fresh rubber.