Used car check: Dacia Sandero - poor with slight improvement trends

The TÜV report cites "glaring weaknesses" in the Dacia Sandero, although newer models perform better in vehicle inspections. However, the car from the Romanian Renault subsidiary still has some work to do.

As a new car, the Dacia Sandero is quite affordable. Low prices are part of the brand DNA of the Romanian Renault subsidiary. For used cars, this means that because prices are limited, these models have been among the most stable in value for years. Buying secondhand is comparatively expensive.

There's another reason why buying a Dacia Sandero is worth considering: Its overall vehicle inspection (MTI) record is poor. Although the latest generation shows signs of improvement, according to the "Auto Bild TÜV Report 2025."

Model history

The second model generation was introduced in 2012 and remained on sale until 2020. The facelift was completed in 2017, which included new three-cylinder engines. The third edition has been on the roads since spring 2021. Originally launched in 2008, the Sandero has long been considered the cheapest new car on the German automotive market.

Variants

The Sandero is a five-door hatchback by default. From the very beginning, there has always been a Stepway variant, with a raised ride height and robust bodywork for a more daring off-road look.

Dimensions (according to ADAC)

• Sandero II: 4.06 to 4.08 m x 1.73 to 1.76 m x 1.52 to 1.62 m (L x W x H), trunk volume: 320 to 1,200
• Sandero III: 4.09 to 4.10 m x 1.85 m x 1.50 to 1.54 m (L x W x H), trunk volume: 328 to 1,108 l

Strengthen

The interior offers plenty of space and a certain degree of versatility thanks to the split rear seat. The third edition, in particular, scores highly in almost all aspects of the chassis, with relatively low complaint rates.

Springs and dampers perform well even on older models. When it comes to brakes, the newer models are more encouraging, with their handbrakes and brake discs performing quite well. The exhaust system is usually fine.

Weaken

The major shortcoming of the second Sandero is its axle suspension, which results in above-average defect rates starting with the second MOT. In terms of lighting, it receives almost exclusively poor marks in the form of increased defect rates, with the indicators on the Sandero II being the exception.

"Brake lines rot after just five years," the report states. While emissions tests are often not passed, the Sandero III has at least improved the problem of oil leaks, which was even worse in its predecessor.

Breakdown behavior

Things are going better here. Since 2012, the car has been characterized by "consistently high to very high reliability," according to the ADAC. However, the ADAC breakdown statistics reveal three main breakdown areas: the starter motor in cars first registered in 2012, the starter battery (2023), and the ignition lock (2013 to 2017, with the exception of 2015).

engines

• Sandero II: Petrol (three- and four-cylinder, front-wheel drive): 54 kW/73 hp to 74 kW/101 hp; Diesel (four-cylinder, front-wheel drive): 66 kW/90 hp to 70 kW/95 hp; Autogas (LPG): 53 kW/72 hp and 66 kW/90 hp
• Sandero III: Petrol (three- and four-cylinder, front-wheel drive): 49 kW/67 hp to 81 kW/110 hp; LPG: 74 kW/101 hp

Dealer sales value according to the German Automobile Trust (DAT) with statistically expected kilometers - three price examples

• Sandero II 0.9 TCe 90 eco Stepway Ambiance (6/2014); 66 kW/90 hp (three-cylinder); 118,000 kilometers; €4,633
• Sandero III 1.0 TCe 110 Stepway Expression+ (6/2022); 81 kW/110 hp (three-cylinder); 38,000 kilometers; €15,145
• Sandero II 1.5 dCi 90 eco Laureate (6/2017); 66 kW/90 hp (four-cylinder); 132,000 kilometers; €7,302