EngineMedium
TCe turbo carbon build-up and coil failures
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check idle and engine light history
2013–2025 Dacia Sandero · common problems & known faults
The UK's value benchmark. Simple mechanicals mean condition, clutch and service history are the whole check.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2013–2025 Dacia Sandero are TCe turbo carbon build-up and coil failures, Clutch wear on high-mileage cars and Knocking noises over uneven surfaces and vague steering feel due to premature wear in the front lower ball joints and track rod ends. Most reported issues are medium or low severity, but a pre-purchase inspection is still recommended. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Dacia Sandero.
6.9/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 0
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 4
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
TransmissionMedium
Clutch wear on high-mileage cars
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check bite point and hill starts
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Build the inspection planElectricalLow
Basic-spec electrical niggles and battery drain
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Test locking, lights and screen where fitted
BodyworkLow
Thin paint and stone chipping
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Inspect the bonnet and front bumper in daylight
SuspensionMedium
Knocking noises over uneven surfaces and vague steering feel due to premature wear in the front lower ball joints and track rod ends.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-60,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Push down firmly on the front wings to listen for knocks. With the vehicle stationary, rock the steering wheel side-to-side to feel for excessive free play.
InteriorLow
Driver's seat rocks backwards and forwards during acceleration and braking, often accompanied by a metallic squeak from the seat frame.
- Typically appears
- 30,000-50,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Sit in the driver's seat, grip the steering wheel, and forcefully rock your body back and forth to check for movement in the seat runners and frame.
ExhaustLow
Loud, tinny metallic rattling noise from the underside of the vehicle, particularly noticeable at idle or when pulling away.
- Typically appears
- 4-6 years
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from cold, leave it idling, and kneel by the front doors to listen underneath. The exhaust heat shield mounts frequently corrode and detach.
BrakesMedium
Spongy brake pedal feel, excessive handbrake travel, and potential MOT failure due to leaking rear drum wheel cylinders.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Pull the handbrake to check if it holds within 5-7 clicks. Shine a torch onto the lower inner edge of the rear brake backplates to look for damp brake fluid patches.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the Sandero good trade stock?
Yes, it sells fast at the value end and buyers expect basic spec.
What do buyers ask about?
Service history and whether the cambelt is done.
Which engine?
The TCe 90 petrol is the sweet spot for retail.
Do these engines use a timing belt or a timing chain?
It depends on the specific engine. The 0.9 TCe, 1.0 SCe, and 1.0 TCe petrol engines utilise a timing chain, which generally lasts the life of the vehicle if serviced correctly. However, the older 1.2 16v petrol and 1.5 dCi diesel engines use a timing belt, requiring replacement every six years or 72,000 miles.
Are suspension components interchangeable between the standard Sandero and the Stepway?
No. While they share the same core platform, the Stepway features a raised ride height with longer springs, different dampers, and revised anti-roll bars. When ordering replacement suspension parts or quoting for forecourt repairs, you must specify the exact variant to ensure correct fitment and maintain safe handling characteristics.
What specific checks are required for the factory Bi-Fuel LPG models?
Ensure the system switches seamlessly between petrol and LPG once the engine reaches operating temperature. You should hear a distinct click from the rear tank valve. The LPG filter requires replacement every 18,000 miles, so verify the service history. A flashing green LPG button indicates a fault requiring specialist diagnostics.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
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