2020 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · SW20 AAV

The latest MOT test on the 2020 Dacia Sandero, conducted on 2026-05-12, resulted in a passing grade despite several persistent advisories that indicate ongoing but non-critical issues. The trend in the MOT history is relatively stable, with only minor fluctuations—two consecutive clean tests in 2024 and 2023 followed by a single failure in 2025 due to headlamp-related issues, which were rectified before the 2026 test. The recurring advisories on tyre condition, wheel distortion, and anti-roll bar linkage wear suggest that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, some components are approaching their operational limits or experiencing gradual degradation. The presence of these advisories does not currently pose an immediate safety risk but warrants attention to prevent potential future failures, particularly in the suspension and tyre systems. The recorded mileage of 14,708 miles for a vehicle aged six years represents a notably low annual usage rate of approximately 2,451 miles per year, which is significantly below the average for its class. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of stationary use, particularly if the vehicle has been stored without regular movement, which can accelerate wear from factors like corrosion, fluid degradation, and component stiffness. However, the absence of higher mileage accumulation suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy or aggressive driving conditions, which might otherwise accelerate wear on brakes, suspension, and drivetrain components. This could be beneficial for the vehicle’s longevity, but it also means that certain age-related issues—such as tyre perishing, battery health, or fluid degradation—may not have been exacerbated by high usage. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the tyres, wheels, and suspension, given the recurring advisories. The near- and offside rear tyres show signs of slight cracking or perishing, which is a common issue in older tyres, especially when stored for extended periods without rotation or pressure checks. Visually inspect the tyre sidewalls for any signs of dry rot, delamination, or cracks that could compromise tread retention or safety. On a test drive, listen for any unusual noises from the rear wheels, such as grinding or clunking, which could indicate wheel distortion or misalignment. The front wheels also show slight distortion, which may contribute to uneven tyre wear or handling issues. Check for any play or binding in the steering wheel or wheel alignment during cornering and braking to confirm the distortion’s impact on ride quality. Beyond the advisories, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s standing condition and time-based maintenance. Given the low mileage and potential periods of inactivity, the 12V battery may be in poor condition, with corrosion around terminals or a weak cranking amps reading upon testing. The battery should be replaced if it is over six years old or shows signs of swelling, leakage, or reduced performance. The brake system should be inspected for signs of corrosion on discs and linings, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for long periods, as this can lead to binding calipers or reduced braking efficiency. The suspension components, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and anti-roll bar linkages, should be checked for stiffness, leaks, or excessive play, as the advisories on anti-roll bar wear suggest gradual degradation. Finally, the vehicle’s fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—should be checked for contamination or degradation, with a recommendation to replace them if they are over two years old, regardless of mileage, due to the risk of sludge formation and component failure. Additionally, the exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or corrosion, as the low mileage may not have exposed it to the same levels of wear as a higher-mileage vehicle.