Top fixes

Top Dacia Sandero fixes every owner should know

Cheap, practical fixes for the Dacia Sandero faults you actually meet, with rough costs and what a garage will charge.

Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 116,244 recorded MOT tests, 24.0% failed.

Dacia Sandero
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

TL;DR

Dacia Sandero owners should be aware of common faults like electrical issues and brake problems. Repairs can often be DIY-friendly, with parts costing between £10 and £200. Garage labour typically ranges from £50 to £120, making DIY fixes a cost-effective option for many repairs.

Electrical Issues

Electrical faults are common in the Dacia Sandero, particularly in models from 2013 to 2020. Symptoms include dashboard warning lights and non-functioning accessories. Fixing wiring or replacing fuses is often DIY-friendly, with parts costing around £10 to £30. If the issue is more complex, such as a faulty alternator, expect garage labour costs to range from £80 to £120.

Brake Problems

Brake issues, especially with the pads and discs, are frequently reported. Models from 2015 to 2021 may show signs of wear earlier than expected. Replacing brake pads is a straightforward DIY task, costing around £50 for parts. However, if you need to replace the discs as well, parts can reach £150. Garage fees for a full brake job can range from £100 to £200.

Exhaust Leaks

Exhaust leaks can occur in Sandero models from 2014 to 2022. Look for increased noise or a decrease in fuel efficiency. A temporary fix might be a sealant, costing about £15. For a proper repair, replacing sections of the exhaust can cost £50 to £150 in parts. Garage labour can add another £60 to £100.

Suspension Issues

Suspension problems, particularly with the front struts, have been noted in models from 2012 to 2019. If you hear clunking noises, it may be time for a replacement. DIY replacement of struts is possible but requires tools and experience. Parts can cost between £100 to £200, while garage labour can add another £80 to £120.

Timing Belt Replacement

The timing belt should be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Failure to do so can lead to serious engine damage. A DIY replacement is complex and not recommended for beginners. Parts can cost around £100, but garage labour might range from £200 to £400 for a full replacement.

Dacia Sandero recall record

7 recalls have been issued for the Dacia Sandero, between 2016 and 2021.

  1. POORLY FITTED FUEL SUPPLY HOSE LEADING TO A POTENTIAL LEAK IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT

    R/2021/364

    Issued 12 October 2021

    Poorly fitted fuel supply hose leading to a potential leak in the engine compartment.

    Remedy:Check the fuel system on all vehicles and replacing the fuel pipe.

    Affects cars built Feb 2020 to Sept 2021

  2. RISK OF THE KEY JAMMING IN THE START POSITION CAUSING POTENTIAL DAMGE TO THE STARTER MOTOR.

    R/2020/307

    Issued 3 November 2020

    There is a possible risk of the ignition switch not disengaging correctly after starting the vehicle resulting in the key jamming in the start position. In rare circumstances this may cause a thermal incident.

    Remedy:Replacement of the ignition switch.

    Affects cars built Sept 2017 to Oct 2018

  3. THE CONTACT BETWEEN THE POSITIVE BATTERY TERMINAL AND THE ALTERNATOR COULD CAUSE AN ELECTRICAL SHORT CIRCUIT

    R/2020/006

    Issued 21 January 2020

    Contact between the positive battery terminal and the alternator could cause an electrical short circuit.

    Remedy:Modify the wiring route and if necessary replace the alternator.

    Affects cars built Jul 2019 to Jul 2019

  4. DRIVER'S AIRBAG MAY NOT DEPLOY CORRECTLY DURING AN IMPACT

    R/2018/371

    Issued 4 January 2019

    Drivers air bag may not deploy correctly.

    Remedy:Replace drivers air bag.

    Affects cars built Apr 2018 to Aug 2018

3 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

Dacia Sandero MOT record

From 116,244 recorded MOT tests, 24.0% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20233997.0%17,081 mi
202212,8407.2%18,573 mi
20217,9059.7%23,278 mi
20208,90614.0%28,864 mi
201912,33716.5%34,823 mi
201812,33420.5%41,862 mi
201714,47226.0%50,198 mi
201614,14031.1%58,180 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements29.6%
  2. A tyre seriously damaged24.1%
  3. A spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened17.4%
  4. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn16.1%
  5. Brake disc or drum excessively weakened, insecure or fractured12.7%

Figures cover every Dacia Sandero tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Dacia Sandero official figures

Median across 106 variants on sale, petrol, petrol / lpg.

Combined economy
50.4 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
127.5 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What are common faults with the Dacia Sandero?

Common faults include electrical issues, faulty brakes, and problems with the exhaust.

Can I fix these issues myself?

Many issues can be fixed DIY, but some may require professional help.

Is it worth fixing a Dacia Sandero?

Yes, the Sandero is generally reliable and fixing common issues can extend its life.

Sources