Generations
J87 — First Generation Captur
2013–2022
0.9 TCe, 0.9 Energy TCe, 1.2 TCe, 1.3 TCe, 1.5 dCi, 1.5 dCi 110
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Renault Captur problems ranked by severity. We track 7 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Major
Drive belt and timing chain wear (J87)
The 1.5 dCi engine suffers from premature transmission joint, belt and chain wear that affects drive to the wheels. MOT data shows this model fails at 10.8 times the national fleet average for transmission component wear, peaking at 40-60k miles. The issue manifests as CV joint boot splits, driveshaft wear, and timing component deterioration. This appears to be related to the diesel engine's torque characteristics stressing the drivetrain components beyond their design limits.
What happens if ignoredCV joint failure can lead to loss of drive or wheel detachment in extreme cases. Timing component failure can cause valve damage on interference engines. Repair typically involves CV joint replacement, driveshaft renewal, or timing belt/chain service. Complete driveshaft replacement costs £300-600 per side.
Independent garage
£200–£600
Specialist
£300–£800
Main dealer
£450–£1,200
Parts only
£120–£400
Major
Suspension bush and joint wear (J87)
The Captur suffers from accelerated suspension bush and joint deterioration, with MOT data showing failure rates up to 8.4 times the national fleet average. The issue affects both front and rear suspension components, with some joints reaching the point where they are likely to become detached - a dangerous failure mode. This appears to be a design weakness in the suspension mounting points and bush material specification, affecting all engine variants.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension bushes cause poor handling, uneven tyre wear, and MOT failure. In extreme cases documented by MOT data, joints can become detached leading to loss of steering control or wheel collapse. Complete suspension bush replacement is often required rather than individual components.
Independent garage
£200–£500
Specialist
£300–£700
Main dealer
£450–£900
Parts only
£100–£300
Major
Turbo failure (J87)
The small-displacement TCe turbocharged engines (0.9 and 1.2 litre) suffer from turbocharger failure due to the high stress placed on undersized turbochargers. These engines rely heavily on forced induction to produce adequate power, placing continuous stress on the turbo components. Failure typically manifests as bearing wear, actuator problems, or boost pressure loss. Oil contamination from irregular servicing accelerates wear significantly.
What happens if ignoredComplete turbo failure results in severe loss of power and potential engine damage from oil starvation or debris ingestion. The car becomes difficult to drive safely, particularly on motorways or hills. Replacement requires a remanufactured or new turbocharger assembly.
Independent garage
£800–£1,200
Specialist
£1,000–£1,500
Main dealer
£1,200–£2,000
Parts only
£400–£800
Major
DPF issues (J87)
The 1.5 dCi diesel engine suffers from diesel particulate filter (DPF) blockage, particularly on vehicles used predominantly for short journeys. The DPF requires regular high-temperature burns to clear accumulated soot, but city driving prevents the exhaust reaching the necessary temperature. Blocked DPFs cause the engine management system to limit power and eventually prevent starting.
What happens if ignoredA completely blocked DPF will prevent the engine from starting or cause it to enter limp mode with severely reduced power. DPF replacement costs £1,000-2,000. Professional cleaning may restore function temporarily but replacement is often required on high-mileage examples.
Independent garage
£400–£800
Specialist
£600–£1,200
Main dealer
£800–£1,500
Parts only
£300–£600
3 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Renault Captur fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Reversing lamp not securely attached
Lights & Electrics · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 33x the fleet average
Sample: 37,506 tests
Service brake pedal has excessive wear or free ...
Brakes · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 28x the fleet average
Sample: 13,293 tests
Lamp not securely attached
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 22x the fleet average
Sample: 78,058 tests
Front or rear fog lamp not securely attached
Lights & Electrics · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 20x the fleet average
Sample: 7,422 tests
Transmission joint, belt or chain worn
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 11x the fleet average
Sample: 110,427 tests
Reversing lamp inoperative
Lights & Electrics · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 9.4x the fleet average
Sample: 1,342 tests
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Related
- Renault Captur buyer's guide
- Renault Captur service history check
- Renault Captur service schedule & costs
- Renault Captur MOT failure rates
- Renault Captur price guide
- How to check Renault service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Renault Captur car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
- Free MOT failure rate check
- Free car check
Renault Captur reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Renault Captur?
The Renault Captur has 7 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most common problems relate to Drive belt and timing chain wear (J87) and Suspension bush and joint wear (J87).
Is the Renault Captur reliable?
The Renault Captur has 0 dangerous and 5 major known issues. No dangerous issues are tracked, which is a positive sign.
How much does it cost to fix Renault Captur problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Drive belt and timing chain wear (J87)) costs £200–£600 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.