2016 Dacia Sandero 0.9L Petrol · YE16 YCL

Persistent tyre wear patterns represent the primary mechanical concern for this Dacia Sandero, which secured its most recent pass on 18 June 2026. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent record of passing its annual inspections without formal failures, the recurring advisories regarding the nearside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edge suggest an underlying issue with the front-end geometry. This trend has appeared in both the 2024 and 2026 test cycles, indicating that the alignment or suspension components may require professional adjustment to prevent premature tyre degradation and ensure even contact with the road surface. At 70,510 miles over a ten-year period, the vehicle averages approximately 7,051 miles per annum, which aligns with standard usage expectations for a car of this age. The testing history is continuous with no significant gaps, suggesting the vehicle has remained in regular operation rather than experiencing prolonged periods of inactivity. This steady usage profile generally mitigates the risks associated with long-term storage, such as seized brake calipers or perished rubber components, though the moderate mileage means that major drivetrain and suspension wear should be evaluated in the context of a decade of road exposure. During your test drive, pay close attention to the steering and handling characteristics to address the recurring tyre wear advisories. If the vehicle pulls to the left or right on a flat, straight road, or if the steering wheel feels off-centre, this confirms a probable misalignment of the front tracking. You should also listen for any knocking or clunking noises when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as these sounds often point to worn track rod ends, ball joints, or anti-roll bar bushes, which are common contributors to uneven tyre wear on this platform. Beyond the front suspension, ensure the braking system operates smoothly without any judder through the pedal during firm deceleration, as this can indicate warped discs or binding components that may have been overlooked in previous inspections. Given the age of the vehicle, it is also prudent to inspect the inner edges of the front tyres yourself to confirm the severity of the wear noted by the examiner. If the tyres show signs of feathering or scalloping, budget for a four-wheel alignment check alongside the replacement of the affected tyres to ensure the issue does not persist.