About the Dacia Sandero
AI-generatedThe Dacia Sandero is Britain's most affordable new car, offering exceptional value for money with a no-frills approach to motoring. Built on Renault underpinnings, this Romanian-built supermini prioritises practicality and low running costs over premium features. Now in its third generation (launched 2021), the Sandero provides spacious accommodation for five adults, a generous boot, and surprisingly decent equipment levels considering its bargain basement price point. Available with petrol engines only, the Sandero appeals to budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, and those wanting simple, reliable transportation without unnecessary complexity. While it lacks the refinement and driving dynamics of more expensive rivals, it compensates with rock-bottom depreciation, cheap servicing costs, and straightforward mechanics. The Stepway variant adds SUV-inspired styling with increased ride height and plastic body cladding for those wanting a more rugged appearance.
Known Issues
Known Issues
First Generation (2013-2020)
2013-2020
- Rear coil springs can corrode and break, particularly on UK cars exposed to salt
- Handbrake cables prone to seizing due to inadequate protection from corrosion
- Boot lock mechanism can fail, preventing boot opening
- Interior trim quality poor with rattles and squeaks developing over time
- Manual gearbox can become notchy, particularly selecting second gear
- Headlight bulbs fail frequently requiring replacement
Second Generation (2021-present)
2021-present
- Infotainment system occasional freezing or restart issues
- Climate control fan motors can develop bearing noise
- Some reports of premature front brake wear
- Door seal water ingress on early models
- Touchscreen responsiveness can be sluggish in cold weather
Photo by Andrei on Pexels
Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,200-£1,500
Insurance Group
8-12
Average Service
£200-£280
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£11,000 - £14,500
£8,500 - £11,500
£6,500 - £9,000
£3,000 - £5,500
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional value for money - cheapest new car in the UK
- Low running costs including insurance, fuel, and servicing
- Spacious interior with good rear legroom and decent boot space
- Simple, proven mechanical components make DIY maintenance easier
- Minimal depreciation due to low purchase price
- Surprisingly good standard equipment levels in recent models
- Three-year warranty provides peace of mind
Photo by Emre Simsek on Pexels
Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2021 - All-new third generation with modern styling, vastly improved interior quality, better technology, and full Euro NCAP safety rating
- 2022 - Benefited from production improvements and software updates addressing early third-gen issues whilst maintaining competitive pricing
- 2017 - Mid-cycle refresh of first generation with improved equipment levels and resolved early production issues at attractive used prices
Worst Years
- 2013 - First year of UK sales with teething problems, minimal equipment, zero-star NCAP rating, and poorest build quality of the generation
- 2014 - Continued quality control issues and corrosion problems becoming evident, particularly with rear springs and brake components
Buying Checklist
Engine5 items
- Check for smooth cold starting - misfires indicate ignition issues
- Listen for timing chain rattle on startup (rare but expensive)
- Inspect for oil leaks around rocker cover and sump
- Verify regular oil changes with service history
- Test acceleration for hesitation or poor performance
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The Sandero is consistently Britain's cheapest new car, with prices starting below £13,000
It won WhatCar? Best Small Car for Value award multiple times
The name 'Sandero' comes from Alexander Sandero, a mythical Romanian hero
Over 2 million Sanderos have been sold globally since 2008
Alternatives to Consider
Skoda Fabia
Better build quality and refinement with slightly higher running costs but superior resale values
Suzuki Swift
8/10More enjoyable to drive with excellent reliability and similar running costs, though smaller boot
Hyundai i20
7.5/10Superior warranty (5 years vs 3), better equipment levels, and more polished overall package
MG 3
Comparable value proposition with better standard equipment and competitive pricing
Owner Tips
- 1Inspect rear coil springs annually for corrosion - replacement is inexpensive but failure can be dangerous
- 2Exercise handbrake regularly and lubricate cables to prevent seizing
- 3Use Renault-approved oils and parts for servicing - they're often cheaper than Dacia-branded equivalents
- 4Check boot lock mechanism operates smoothly; early failure signs include stiffness
- 5Protect paintwork with wax treatments as rust prevention measures are minimal
- 6Keep drainage holes clear to prevent water ingress and interior damp
- 7Consider aftermarket sound deadening to improve refinement
- 8Budget for more frequent headlight bulb replacements on pre-2021 models
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