2022 Dacia Duster Extreme SE TCE 4X2 Auto 1.3L Petrol · SO22 AGV

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 16 July 2026 resulted in a pass, with two advisories noting slight perishing or cracking on both rear tyres. The previous test on 23 July 2025 also passed, but carried four similar advisories across all four tyres. The maintenance trend can be described as broadly stable in that the vehicle has not suffered any failures, but the pattern of tyre perishing advisories is recurring and worsening in the sense that the deterioration noted on the front axle in 2025 has now spread to or been newly flagged on the rear axle in 2026. While these are only advisories rather than failures, the consistency of the defect across two consecutive tests suggests progressive age-related rubber degradation rather than isolated damage, and this should be regarded as a leading indicator that the tyres are approaching the end of their safe service life. With 19,790 miles recorded over a four-year period, this Duster is averaging roughly 4,948 miles annually, a notably low usage figure for a vehicle of its age. Such low annual mileage can be indicative of predominantly short urban journeys, light leisure use, or extended periods of standing between drives. Mechanically, low mileage reduces wear on high-cycle components such as the brake friction material, clutch (less applicable here given the automatic transmission), and engine internals, but it raises the probability of calendar-related degradation. These include corrosion on brake discs from infrequent use, binding of brake calipers and seizure of handbrake mechanisms, deterioration of the 12V battery due to incomplete charging cycles, and stiffening of suspension bushes and rubber components from extended static standing. From a physical inspection standpoint, the recurring tyre perishing advisories are the most immediate concern and warrant close scrutiny of the sidewalls for visible cracking, particularly in the flex zone between the tread and the rim. Given that all four tyres have been flagged over consecutive tests, replacement of the full set should be anticipated, and budget should be set aside accordingly. During a test drive, listen for brake shudder or vibration under light pedal application, which would suggest corroded front discs, and note any pulling to one side or delayed release that could indicate a binding caliper. Confirm that the handbrake holds firmly on an incline without excessive travel, as rear caliper or cable mechanisms can seize on low-use vehicles. Further age-appropriate checks should include verification of the 12V battery state of charge and its date stamp, as batteries older than four to five years frequently fail under load even when the vehicle starts readily on a warm day. Inspect the underside and suspension arms for surface corrosion, paying particular attention to the front subframe, anti-roll bar drop links, and coil springs, which can suffer cosmetic or structural oxidation on lightly used cars that have been exposed to winter road salt. Examine all flexible brake hoses and CV gaiters for perishing, and ensure that the coolant, brake fluid, and automatic transmission fluid have been changed in line with time-based intervals rather than purely mileage-based schedules. Finally, cross-reference the service book stamps or digital service history against the recorded mileage to confirm that annual inspection-based services have been carried out despite the low odometer reading, as neglect of time-based servicing is a common consequence of low annual usage.