2015 Dacia Sandero 1.1L Petrol · SP65 WHR

The defining mechanical characteristic of this 2015 Dacia Sandero is a pattern of recurrent advisories and failures across lighting, exhaust, suspension, and tyre monitoring systems, with three failures recorded within the last three testing cycles. The most recent outcome on 9 July 2026 was a pass, but only after a failed attempt the previous day which resulted in majors for a malfunctioning tyre pressure monitoring system, headlamp aim on both front units, and excessively worn inner suspension arm pins or bushes on both sides. The advisory items accompanying both entries were oil leak not excessive and a constant velocity boot split that still prevents dirt ingress. Going further back, the 2025 cycle also featured a failure for major exhaust gas leak, insecure exhaust system, emissions unable to be completed, and a rear shock absorber fluid leak, all repaired to achieve a pass. The 2023 test similarly recorded majors for tyre pressure monitoring, nearside headlamp levelling device inoperative, and headlamp aim on both sides. The consistent reappearance of headlamp aim and TPMS defects across multiple cycles suggests these issues are being addressed reactively just before test rather than as ongoing maintenance. Recorded mileage stands at 64,703 miles across approximately eleven years, equating to a low annual accumulation of roughly 5,882 miles. This modest usage rate is consistent with short-distance, low-load driving typical of a second household car or one used primarily for errands, and it means consumable wear on items such as brake friction material, clutches, and tyres may be lighter than mileage alone would suggest. However, low annual mileage combined with the constant velocity boot split recorded in 2026 and the oil leak advisory carried across multiple cycles can also indicate extended periods of stationary operation where seals deteriorate, rubber boots dry out, and oil weepage becomes established. There are no extended gaps between annual tests, confirming the vehicle has remained in continuous use, and no sudden jumps in recorded mileage that would suggest clock irregularities. From a buyer perspective, the most urgent items to physically inspect are the inner suspension arm bushes or pins flagged as excessively worn on both sides in July 2026. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over uneven roads, particularly speed bumps, and feel for imprecise steering response or vibration through the wheel. With the front brake discs also noted as pitted and scored in the 2024 advisories, brake pedal feel should be assessed for judder under firm application, and the discs visually examined for lip formation and surface corrosion. The constant velocity boot split on the 2026 test should prompt inspection of both front driveshaft gaiters for grease loss around the inner and outer joints, as a split boot that progresses will lead to joint failure. The lighting and exhaust issues, while repaired to pass, are worth verifying on a road test. Confirm both headlamps are correctly aimed against a flat wall, as the same defect has appeared on multiple occasions, suggesting adjustment or levelling motor faults may recur. The exhaust system, having previously failed for a major leak and insecure mounting, should be checked for blowing sounds on overrun, rattles on start-up from cold, and any signs of black sooting at joints. The rear shock absorber fluid leak recorded in 2025 warrants a visual inspection of the offside rear unit for fresh oil staining and a check for excessive bounce when pressing down on the rear corner. Finally, the persistent oil leak advisory, described as not excessive, should be monitored by inspecting the underside for fresh drips and checking the oil level on the dipstick before any purchase, as a borderline engine seal that has been carried as an advisory for several years could progress into a more serious concern.