2015 Dacia Sandero 1.5L Diesel · YK65 NSN

The most recent MOT test on 2026-03-05 confirms the vehicle remains roadworthy at 54,516 miles, with no defects recorded. However, the history reveals an unusual pattern: two consecutive tests in February 2025—one pass and one fail—both at exactly 47,380 miles, followed by a near-identical repeat in March 2024. This suggests either a technical anomaly in the MOT system or a vehicle that narrowly avoided failure on multiple occasions. The latest pass, just four months ago, indicates the car has not been driven since then, which may explain the lack of recent wear. There is no evidence of worsening mechanical issues, but the repeated near-failures warrant closer scrutiny of components that could have been marginal at the time. The recorded mileage of 54,516 miles over 11 years—approximately 4,956 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting either very light use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests spans 11 months, during which only 4,274 miles were accumulated, reinforcing the pattern of minimal driving. This low mileage could mean some components, such as suspension bushes or brake pads, have not experienced significant wear, but it also raises questions about whether the vehicle has been stored improperly, potentially accelerating issues like corrosion or fluid degradation. The lack of intermediate MOTs or service records makes it impossible to confirm whether maintenance was consistently performed during these inactive periods. Given the history, a buyer should prioritise an inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle and bushes, as binding brakes were flagged in past tests—though not explicitly recorded here. The repeated near-failures in 2024 and 2025 imply potential recurring faults, possibly with brake calipers, rotor runout, or even structural integrity near the wheel arches. Corrosion should be checked thoroughly, especially under the sills, wheel housings, and exhaust system, as low mileage does not preclude rust progression when a vehicle is left stationary. The absence of advisories in recent tests is reassuring, but the irregular MOT pattern suggests the previous owner may not have addressed all underlying issues. A pre-purchase inspection should focus on fluid levels (brake, power steering, coolant), tyre condition, and any signs of uneven wear that could indicate alignment or suspension drift.