2015 Dacia Duster 1.5L Diesel · ST15 OLK

The most recent MOT test conducted in June 2026 resulted in a pass, though it carried advisories regarding the wear on both front tyres. When evaluating the overall maintenance trend, the vehicle shows signs of entering a period of increased component degradation. While the years between 2020 and 2022 were clean, the subsequent history shows a pattern of mechanical issues, including a significant failure in 2024 involving lighting, braking, and drivetrain components, preceded by suspension advisories in 2023. This suggests a transition from a period of stability to one where age-related wear on consumables and rubber components is becoming more prevalent. With a recorded mileage of 78,227 miles over approximately eleven years, the vehicle has covered an average of roughly 7,112 miles per annum. This represents a relatively low-to-moderate usage profile for a Dacia Duster. While this lower mileage may imply less mechanical strain on the engine and gearbox compared to high-mileage examples, it can also lead to specific issues such as brake disc corrosion or the perishing of rubber bushes and seals due to less frequent movement. The mileage is consistent with a vehicle used for light domestic or suburban commuting rather than heavy commercial or off-road application. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the suspension and drivetrain during a test drive. The 2023 advisories regarding play in the nearside and offside front lower suspension arm ball joints, combined with the 2026 tyre wear advisories, suggest potential issues with wheel alignment or worn suspension bushes. Listen for any knocking, clunking, or creaking sounds when navigating uneven road surfaces or when turning the steering wheel at low speeds. Furthermore, the 2024 failure for a binding nearside rear brake and a split nearside front prop shaft CV boot necessitates a thorough inspection. During the test drive, check for any brake shudder, pulling to one side, or a heavy pedal, which could indicate a sticking caliper, and listen for rhythmic clicking or popping noises from the front end during acceleration, which would signal a failing constant velocity joint. Immediate attention will likely be required for the front tyres, which are noted as being close to the legal limit and showing uneven wear on the edges. This unevenness may indicate that a wheel alignment or tracking adjustment is necessary to prevent premature replacement of the new tyres. It is also essential to verify that the major defects from the 2024 MOT, specifically the stop lamp failure and the CV boot replacement, were professionally addressed and are not merely temporary fixes. Given the vehicle's age and usage, inspect the tyre sidewalls for any signs of cracking or perishing and check the service book for evidence of regular fluid changes, as calendar-based degradation of brake fluid and coolant is a concern for vehicles with this mileage profile.