Used Dacia Duster 2013-2018 reliability review
This first-gen Duster offers the space, practicality and style of much pricier models, but it isn't very sophisticated
More used reviews:
- (2018 - 21)
- (2024 - )
See used cars for sale
Small SUV
Jump to:
What's the used Dacia Duster like?
Ownership cost
Our recommendations
Alternatives
Reliability
Mark Pearson
Updated: 23 February 2024
How we test cars
What should I look for in a used Dacia Duster?
This is a rugged, no-nonsense car with plenty of cladding and protection from off-road irregularities, should you choose a four-wheel drive car. However, it’s worth checking the body for any cracks or breakages, especially underneath, and the alloys for any obvious signs of damage.
See used cars for sale
Likewise, the interior is likely to have been used hard, probably by a family, maybe with some pets involved too – so check the operation of the seats. The interior plastics are rather cheap, so check for any tarnishes.
What are the most common problems with a used Dacia Duster?
On the diesel Dusters, check that the previous owner has taken the car on frequent motorway journeys to ensure that the diesel particulate filter (DPF) can regenerate, as this process is only triggered at high speed. A clogged-up DPF can be costly to replace.
Other potential problems with the DPF-equipped cars come if they have been shut off part way through regeneration. The result is contamination of the oil system with fuel, which leads to the oil level rising gradually over time. This can cause damage to the engine, if it hasn’t already, so it’s worth getting the car checked out.
advertisment
scroll for more
Otherwise there are few reported problems with the Dacia Duster.
Is a used Dacia Duster reliable?
The Duster’s reliability record is a little mixed, according to our most recent reliability surveys, with plenty of irritating but small faults mentioned. It finished mid-table in its SUV class.
Dacia as a brand finished in a reasonable 13th place out of 32 manufacturers in our most recent survey.
Used Dacia Duster reliability: the owners' view
Owners paint a picture of a generally reliable vehicle, with most owners reporting few issues within the first few years of ownership. However, there were mentions of electrical faults, particularly with the dashboard and lighting systems, especially in older models.
When it came to dealing with the dealership, opinions were mixed. Some readers praised their dealers for quick and cost-effective repairs, highlighting excellent customer service. Others, however, reported frustrations with slow service and a lack of communication regarding repair status and costs. The dealer network's responsiveness and quality of service appeared to vary significantly by location.
advertisment
scroll for more
Overall, while the Dacia Duster is seen as a reliable choice, the dealer service experience can greatly affect owner satisfaction. Many chose to go the independent route when it came to servicing and looking after their older Duster.
Page 3 of 5
Tips & Advice
Don’t miss a recall
If your car is to be recalled, you should arrange the work to be carried out quickly. Sign up to our recall alerts to ensure you’ll not miss a thing
Check for outstanding recalls
Many cars are recalled so that faults can be put right. Recall work shouldn’t cost you a penny, and they’ll make your car safer or more mechanically robust. Checking if your car has been recalled is easy
Choose the right breakdown cover
You may already have a breakdown policy through your home insurance or new-car warranty so check to avoid paying twice
Ensure you have breakdown cover
Thousands of What Car? readers deliver their verdict on the best breakdown companies helping you to choose the best cover
Used cars available now
In partnership with
Dacia Duster
1.5 dCi Laureate 4WD Euro 5 5dr
£1,299
Dacia Duster
1.5 dCi Laureate Euro 5 5dr
£1,495
Dacia Duster
1.2 TCe Laureate Euro 6 (s/s) 5dr
£1,500
Dacia Duster
1.5 dCi Ambiance Euro 5 5dr
£1,695
Dacia Duster
1.5 dCi Laureate Euro 5 5dr
£1,750
Dacia Duster
1.5 dCi Laureate 4WD Euro 5 5dr
£1,795
Dacia Duster
1.5 dCi Laureate Euro 5 5dr
£1,995
Dacia Duster
1.5 dCi Laureate Euro 5 5dr
£1,995
Dacia Duster
1.5 dCi Laureate Euro 5 5dr
£2,150
See all available cars
About the writer
Name: Mark Pearson
Title: Used cars editor
Follow Mark Pearson on
Mark Pearson has been a motoring journalist for more than 15 years and is currently the used cars editor for What Car?.
Mark spent his formative years at the BBC, where, at various times, he scheduled, broadcast and archived television and radio programmes and researched, wrote and produced promotional material.
News & Advice
Best of
Best small SUVs 2026 and the one to avoid – tried and tested
Thinking of buying a new small SUV? Then make sure you read our rundown of the top 10 cars in this booming sector – plus, find out which one we'd avoid
Sat Oct 3 2026
News
MG3, MG ZS and MG HS updated with new hybrid tech and more standard kit
MG’s hybrids should be smoother and quieter to drive thanks to some upgrades
Mon Sep 28 2026
Slideshow
Britain's cheapest SUVs revealed
You don’t need a fortune to get behind the wheel of a shiny new SUV. We share 15 of the most affordable models on the market, and the best deal prices for each
News
New Nissan Kicks small SUV to be built in Sunderland
New small SUV is already hugely popular in other markets – and it’ll make its European debut next year
Wed Sep 16 2026
See all latest advice