2016 Dacia Duster 1.5L Diesel · WM65 GSV

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2016 Dacia Duster was conducted on 2026-01-16, resulting in a failure due to critical tyre defects—specifically, the near-side front tyre having a tread depth below the legal minimum of 1.6mm and the offside front tyre fouling the vehicle’s structure. This failure follows a pattern of recurring advisories and major issues over the past four years, with the most recent advisory on worn brake discs and offside tyre edge wear persisting from prior tests. While there have been periods of passing MOTs, the vehicle’s history suggests a trend of wear-related failures, particularly concerning front tyres, brake systems, and structural integrity around the wheel wells. The presence of multiple advisories, such as near-side child seat obstructions and registration plate lamp issues, indicates either incomplete vehicle preparation for testing or potential neglect in minor but critical components. The recorded mileage of 86,069 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 8,607 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. This usage level does not suggest excessive wear beyond what is typical for a Dacia Duster, though it does imply consistent driving rather than prolonged periods of inactivity. However, the absence of a service history or clear service intervals may warrant closer scrutiny, as the vehicle’s wear progression could be influenced by both mileage and calendar age. For instance, suspension components, brake pads, and fluid systems may degrade over time regardless of mileage, especially if the vehicle has been stored or driven lightly. The recent MOT failures highlight the importance of addressing tyre wear and potential structural issues promptly, as these are critical safety concerns that could escalate into more severe problems if ignored. Given the vehicle’s MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front tyre condition, particularly focusing on the tread depth, sidewall integrity, and signs of uneven wear or damage. The offside front tyre fouling the vehicle’s structure and the near-side tyre being dangerously underfilled are immediate red flags; any further reduction in tread depth or sidewall damage could compromise traction and handling, especially in wet conditions. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front wheels, such as clunking or grinding, which may indicate misalignment, worn suspension bushes, or binding calipers. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could signal alignment issues or incorrect camber angles. The advisories on worn brake discs suggest that the pads may also be nearing exhaustion, and the vehicle should be inspected for brake shudder, sponginess in pedal feel, or excessive brake dust buildup around the wheels. Beyond the immediate mechanical concerns, the buyer should also address the broader maintenance and safety aspects of the Dacia Duster. Given the vehicle’s age and the lack of a clear service history, it is advisable to verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged inactivity or low usage can lead to corrosion or failure, particularly in older vehicles. Inspect the battery terminals for signs of oxidation or corrosion, and test its charge capacity to ensure it can support the starter motor and electrical systems. The front brake discs, which have been flagged as worn and pitted, should be checked for corrosion or warping, which could affect braking performance. If the discs are beyond their useful life, replacing them with new or serviceable components is essential to maintain safe stopping distances. Lastly, the vehicle’s fluid levels—particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—should be checked and topped up if necessary, as these fluids degrade over time and can lead to system failures if neglected. For the tyres, which are a recurring MOT concern, consider replacing them if the wear exceeds the legal limit or if the sidewalls show signs of cracking or perishing, which can compromise their structural integrity. Finally, ensure that any child seat obstructions are removed to allow full inspection of the vehicle’s components during future MOT tests.