Renault Common Problems & Known Faults

How reliable are Renault cars?

Our database covers 21 Renault models and 189 documented faults across the range. Of these, 25 are classified as dangerous and a further 91 as major. Dangerous faults are those that can compromise vehicle safety or lead to complete mechanical failure if left unaddressed.

According to DVSA MOT test data, Renault models fail at an average rate of 28.3%, which is above the 22.7% average across all manufacturers in our database. Reliability varies considerably between models. The Kadjar is the strongest performer at just 17.1%, while the Laguna has the highest failure rate at 33.9%.

If you are considering a used Renault, researching the specific model and generation you are looking at makes a real difference. The most common failure areas across the range are suspension and engine, though each model has its own particular weak points. This page gives you a complete breakdown by severity, the models affected, and what repairs typically cost at UK garages.

Renault reliability summary

Where Renault problems occur

Understanding which systems are most prone to failure helps you focus during a test drive or pre-purchase inspection. Here is how Renault's 189 known issues break down by area.

Suspension problems dominate, accounting for 49 of the 189 faults we track (26%). Issues in this area include Suspension bush and joint wear (J87) and Suspension component wear and corrosion (Phase 1/2). The most affected models are the Clio (8), the Megane (7), the G (3).

Engine is the next most common area, with 31 documented faults (16%). Common faults here include Turbo failure (J87) and Timing belt and dephaser pulley failure (Phase 1/2). The most affected models are the Clio (13), the Megane (11), the Captur (1).

We also track 23 brakes faults across the range (12%). Problems to watch for include Brake system fluid loss and pedal travel (J87) and Brake pedal rubber wear (J87). The most affected models are the Captur (3), the Kangoo (2), the Wind (2).

Steering rounds out the top problem areas with 22 known issues (12%). Notable issues include Ball joint and track rod end wear and Steering rack gaiter deterioration (Mk4). The most affected models are the Clio (2), the Grand Scenic (2), the Kangoo (2).

Known Renault faults by severity

Every fault in our database is rated by severity based on its potential safety impact and typical repair cost. Below is a sample of issues at each level, with links to the affected model pages where you can read the full details.

Top issues across the Renault range

The most common and severe problems found across all Renault models, ranked by severity and how many models are affected.

Problems by Renault model

We track faults across 21 Renault models. Each model page includes every known issue, generation-specific details, UK repair costs, and MOT failure data. Select a model below to see its full breakdown.

What to check before buying a used Renault

Every used Renault deserves a thorough inspection, but knowing the common weak points for your target model gives you a serious advantage. Since suspension faults are the most common across the range, pay particular attention to this area during any viewing or test drive.

The 25 dangerous-rated faults deserve special attention. These include Bonnet catch failure (safety) (Phase 1/2), Timing belt and dephaser pulley failure (Phase 1/2), Ball joint and track rod end wear. Any of these can compromise safety or result in repair bills running well into the thousands.

A complete dealer service history is one of the strongest indicators of how well a Renault has been looked after. Many of the faults on this page are preventable or can be caught early through regular servicing. If the seller cannot produce service records, treat that as a significant red flag.

Check the MOT history carefully too. With a 28.3% average failure rate across the Renault range, some advisories and minor failures are normal over the life of any car. What matters is the pattern: recurring failures in the same area suggest an underlying problem, while a history of clean passes is encouraging.

Renault repair costs: what to expect

Across all documented faults, the average Renault repair costs between £217 and £501 at an independent garage. At the top end, the most expensive single repair can reach £3,500 or more. Main dealer rates are typically 30% to 50% higher across the board.

The single most expensive Renault repair in our database is Big end bearing failure (Mk3), which can cost £2,500–£5,000 at a main dealer.

These figures are based on reported UK repair costs and serve as a guide. Actual prices will vary depending on your location, the garage, and the parts required. Getting quotes from two or three specialists before committing to any major work is always worthwhile.