2022 Dacia Sandero Comfort TCE CVT 1.0L Petrol · WD71 GGX

The defining story for this 2022 Dacia Sandero Comfort TCe CVT centres on a tyre-related failure that interrupted an otherwise untroubled MOT record. Across three recorded tests, the vehicle has passed twice with only minor advisories relating to undertrays, but the most recent test on 4 November 2025 resulted in a failure driven by a nearside rear tyre with a cut exceeding the permissible depth, alongside an advisory noting that the offside rear tyre was worn down to approximately 3 mm on the outer edge. Importantly, the rear tyre issue is a recent, isolated defect rather than evidence of a chronic pattern, though the combination of a deep gash on one side and accelerated shoulder wear on the other suggests the rear axle alignment, tyre pressures, or cornering habits warrant scrutiny. The presence of undertray advisories on every test is a consistency note worth flagging: undertrays can mask the early signs of corrosion, oil leaks, and underside component wear, so a prospective buyer should not rely solely on the MOT view to assess structural or mechanical condition. With 33,708 miles accumulated over roughly four years, the Sandero is averaging around 8,400 miles per year, which is broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of its age and segment. There are no extended gaps between tests suggesting long periods off the road, and no sudden mileage jumps that would indicate inconsistent recording or clock irregularities. For a CVT-equipped supermini covering this kind of mileage, the mechanical components likely to show early wear are the brake discs and pads (which can develop lipping and judder under urban cycle use), the CVT belt and pulley assembly (sensitive to fluid condition and towing loads), and the rear drum or disc brake hardware depending on specification. The relatively modest annual mileage means the engine and gearbox have not been heavily stressed, but it also means components prone to age-related degradation, such as rubber bushes and coolant hoses, may be approaching the point where material hardening begins to affect ride and handling refinement. The November 2025 advisories should drive a focused inspection of the rear tyres and suspension geometry before purchase. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn trailing arm bushes, top mounts, or coil spring seats; these are common Sandero advisory points and are worth verifying visually by pressing down on each rear corner and checking for excessive bounce. Steering pull to one side under braking, or a wandering sensation at speed, may hint at rear wheel alignment drift consistent with the recorded outer-edge tyre wear, while uneven rear tyre wear patterns themselves should be examined for camber or toe issues. The nearside rear tyre cut that caused the failure points to potential kerb damage or road debris strike; inspect the rear wheel rims for scuffs and the sidewalls of any replacement tyres for similar damage. Finally, given the recurring undertray advisories, it is prudent to request that the undertrays be removed for a proper visual inspection of the exhaust system, rear subframe mounting points, brake pipes, and suspension arms. Surface corrosion on brake lines and the subframe is a known area for later-model Sanderos and should be checked for any signs of bubbling paint, flaking metal, or fluid residue. The CVT transmission fluid level and colour should be inspected via the dipstick if accessible, as darkened or burnt-smelling fluid on a 33,000-mile vehicle could indicate earlier neglect. A road test should also include steady-state cruising at motorway speeds to detect any CVT whine or rubber-band effect, and a series of moderate stops from 30 to 40 mph to confirm the brakes pull up squarely without vibration or pull, which would confirm that the recent tyre issues were not masking deeper alignment or brake concerns.