2022 Dacia Sandero Stepway Prestige TCE 1.0L Petrol · SO22 AFZ

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2022 Dacia Sandero Stepway was conducted on 11 August 2026 and resulted in a pass, with no failures or major defects recorded. The previous test on 26 August 2025 also resulted in a pass. Across both examinations, only minor advisory items were logged, indicating that the vehicle has remained structurally and mechanically compliant with roadworthiness standards. The presence of advisories on both occasions, while not a cause for immediate concern, suggests a consistent pattern of wear developing on consumable components, particularly the front braking system, which should be monitored closely as the vehicle continues to age. The overall maintenance trend appears stable rather than worsening, as the vehicle has not failed any test and the items flagged are typical wear-related advisories expected on a car of this age and mileage. The recorded mileage of 23,396 miles over a four-year period equates to an annual average of approximately 5,849 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. Such low usage can be interpreted in two ways. It may reflect light, careful use with predominantly short journeys, which generally results in less wear on major drivetrain components. However, it also raises the possibility that the vehicle has spent extended periods standing idle, which can bring its own set of mechanical concerns including corrosion of brake discs, deterioration of brake caliper seals, ageing of fluid systems, and weakening of the 12-volt battery. The relatively even pattern of annual mileage, with no large gaps or sudden accumulations, suggests consistent but limited use rather than a period of disuse followed by intensive driving. Both MOT advisories from 2026 relate to wear on the front brake discs, with pitting and scoring noted on both the nearside and offside units. While this was not deemed serious enough to fail the test, the condition indicates surface corrosion and wear typically associated with discs that have been in service for a considerable time or have been subjected to periods of light braking. On a test drive, a prospective buyer should listen for any scraping, grinding, or pulsation through the brake pedal, particularly under firm application, and observe whether the vehicle pulls to one side under braking, which could suggest uneven disc wear or a binding caliper. Given the symmetrical nature of the wear, it is likely that both front discs will require replacement in the near future, and it would be prudent to inspect the front brake pads for remaining material and check the caliper slide pins for free movement. Additionally, the front tyres were flagged in 2025 as being worn close to the legal limit, so the current tyres should be carefully inspected for tread depth, age-related sidewall cracking, and even wear patterns, as tyres fitted to a low-mileage vehicle can suffer from perishing and reduced elasticity even when tread remains adequate. Beyond the recorded advisories, a low-mileage vehicle of this age warrants attention to several time-sensitive items regardless of MOT outcome. The brake fluid should be tested for moisture content, as it is typically recommended for renewal every two years irrespective of mileage, and the coolant system should be checked for proper concentration and condition. The 12-volt battery should be load-tested, particularly if the vehicle has been used predominantly for short trips or has stood for extended periods, as this is a common cause of starting issues in lightly used cars. Under the bonnet, inspect all rubber hoses, drive belts, and the condition of the air filter element, while underneath, examine the exhaust system for signs of corrosion, particularly at mounting points and joints. On the suspension, although no advisories were recorded, lightly used vehicles can develop binding in components such as rear brake mechanisms and corrosion on coil springs, so a thorough test drive over uneven surfaces to listen for knocks or rattles is strongly advised. Finally, verify the service history stamps to confirm that oil and filter changes have been performed at appropriate intervals, as low annual mileage does not negate the need for regular time-based servicing of lubricants and filters.