Top Dacia Duster fixes every owner should know

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

Dacia Duster
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

TL;DR

The Dacia Duster, while affordable and practical, has common faults including electrical issues, suspension wear, oil leaks, exhaust problems, and brake wear. Owners should be aware of DIY fixes and potential garage costs for repairs, which can range from £20 to £200 for parts and £50 to £200 for labour.

Electrical Issues

Electrical faults are common in Dacia Dusters, particularly with the central locking system and dashboard lights. These issues often stem from faulty wiring or a blown fuse. DIY repairs involve checking and replacing fuses, costing around £5, while a garage may charge £50 to £100 for diagnosis and repair.

Suspension Problems

The front suspension can wear out, leading to a rough ride or knocking noises. Replacing worn shock absorbers is a common fix, with parts costing between £50 and £100 each. A garage typically charges £100 to £200 for the full replacement service, which provides a permanent solution if done correctly.

Oil Leaks

Oil leaks are not uncommon, especially in older models, often caused by worn seals or gaskets. A DIY fix may involve replacing the gasket, costing around £20. However, if the leak is significant, a garage may charge £100 to £150 for a thorough inspection and repair.

Exhaust Issues

The exhaust system can develop rust and leaks, particularly in models from 2013 to 2016. A temporary fix might involve exhaust tape, costing about £10. For a permanent solution, replacing the affected section may cost £50 to £150, with garage labour adding another £50 to £100.

Brake Problems

Brake pads and discs wear out, leading to reduced braking efficiency. DIY replacement of brake pads costs around £30 to £60, while a garage may charge £100 to £200 for both pads and discs. This maintenance task is essential and should not be delayed.

Dacia Duster MOT record

From 80,600 recorded MOT tests, 21.0% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20233585.0%20,418 mi
202210,3229.4%22,890 mi
20218,50612.6%29,998 mi
20208,14816.3%36,119 mi
201914,69019.9%42,657 mi
20188,49120.5%50,743 mi
20176,27323.2%58,010 mi
20166,86825.4%68,664 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements34.6%
  2. A tyre seriously damaged22.0%
  3. Brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded15.7%
  4. The aim of a headlamp is not within limits laid down in the requirements14.5%
  5. A spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened13.3%

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

Dacia Duster official figures

Median across 165 variants on sale, diesel, petrol, petrol / lpg, petrol electric.

Combined economy
45.6 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
141 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 Duster?

Common faults include electrical issues, suspension problems, and oil leaks.

Can I fix these problems myself?

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

How much do repairs typically cost?

Parts can range from £20 to £200, with garage labour costs around £50 to £100 per hour.

Are fixes temporary or permanent?

Some fixes may only be temporary patches, while others provide a long-term solution.

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Sources