Common petrol engines in 2015 Stepways are the 0.9 TCe turbo and the naturally aspirated 1.2; both use a manual gearbox here so clutch wear is the most common driveline concern. Dacia is basic by design — parts are inexpensive and widely available through the Renault network in Ireland, but resale values are modest compared with mainstream rivals.

• Clutch operation and feel (slipping, high bite point) and smooth gear selection from cold
• Timing drive service history — confirm whether the fitted petrol engine uses a cambelt or chain and that replacements/inspections were done to schedule
• If it’s the 0.9 TCe, check turbo health: listen for whistle/grinding, watch for blue smoke under acceleration and check for lag
• Front and rear suspension for knocks, worn bushes or leaking shocks — Stepway’s raised ride height can stress top mounts and drop links
• Corrosion around rear wheelarches, sills and hatch drains; check underside seams and the edges of the tailgate for bubbling or blocked drain holes