Renault · Known Issues

2000-2026 Renault Clio Problems: 10 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2000-2026 model years · 375+ owner reports · Updated June 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 375+ owner reports, the 2000-2026 Renault Clio has 10 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are Timing Belt Tensioner Failure ($300-$600 repair), TCe Turbo Coolant Leak ($200-$600 repair), 1.5 dCi (K9K) Fuel Injector and Injection Pump Failure ($350-$4,500 repair), EDC Dual-Clutch Gearbox Judder, TCU Faults and Clutch Failure ($250-$4,000 repair), Electric Power Steering (EPS) Column Failure ($700-$1,800 repair) and 1.2 Petrol Valve Cotter Defect — Engine Destruction (DVSA Recall) ($0-$4,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Ignition Coil Pack Failure with 130 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $80 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 10 Known Issues

When Issues Typically Appear

TCe Turbo Coolant Leak

30K-70K

Ignition Coil Pack Failure

40K-80K

Timing Belt Tensioner Failure

50K-90K

Gearbox Bearing Failure

50K-100K

025K50K75K100K mi

Community Reported

100 owners

On the 2000-2015 Renault Clio, the timing belt tensioner bearing on Clio K-series engines can fail before the scheduled belt replacement interval, causing catastrophic engine damage. The water pump, which is driven by the timing belt, also fails prematurely.

This issue also affects: Renault Megane

Common Symptoms

Squealing from timing cover
Coolant leak from water pump
Timing belt wear visible
Ticking noise

How to Fix

Replace the timing belt, tensioner, idler pulley, and water pump as a complete kit every 72,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first. Do not skip the water pump replacement.

Typical repair cost:$300 - $600

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Community Reported

High Confidence100 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

Community Reported

60 owners

On the 2012-2026 Renault Clio, the TCe turbocharged engines develop coolant leaks from the turbocharger coolant lines and the thermostat housing. The plastic coolant connectors become brittle with age and heat exposure, causing seepage and eventual failure.

This issue also affects: Renault Captur

Common Symptoms

Coolant loss
Sweet smell from engine bay
Low coolant warning
Overheating risk

How to Fix

Replace the turbo coolant lines with updated metal fittings where available. Replace the thermostat housing assembly. Pressure test the cooling system after repair to verify no further leaks.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $600

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Medium Confidence60 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2010-2011 Renault Clio, clio III 1.2 petrol engines built between 17 September and 30 November 2010 were recalled (DVSA reference R/2011/118) because out-of-specification valve cotters could let a valve drop into the cylinder, destroying the engine. 3,308 UK cars were affected. An unremedied car can suffer sudden, catastrophic engine failure with no warning, writing off the engine.

Common Symptoms

Sudden loud metallic noise from the engine
Immediate engine stall and failure to restart
Complete loss of compression
No prior warning signs

How to Fix

The recall remedy is free replacement of the valve cotters by a Renault dealer; owners of 2010-2011 1.2 Clios should check the recall status by VIN on the GOV.UK recall checker. If the failure has already occurred, the engine requires rebuild or replacement.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $4,500

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High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

Community Reported

130 owners

On the 2000-2012 Renault Clio, the Clio II and III petrol engines suffer from premature ignition coil pack failure, causing misfires and rough running. The coil packs crack from heat cycling and moisture ingress, particularly on the 1.2 and 1.4 engines.

This issue also affects: Renault Megane

Common Symptoms

Engine misfire
Rough idle
Hesitation under acceleration
Check engine light flashing

How to Fix

Replace the faulty coil pack. It is recommended to replace all coil packs simultaneously and use OEM Sagem units. Inspect and replace spark plugs at the same time.

Typical repair cost:$80 - $250

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High Confidence130 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Invalid Date

On the 2013-2019 Renault Clio, clio IV models with the six-speed EDC automatic (the dry-clutch Getrag DCT250, the same family as the troubled DSG/PowerShift units) suffer low-speed judder, jerky 1st-2nd shifts, clunks engaging Drive or Reverse, overheating warnings in traffic, and 'Check auto gearbox' messages. Causes range from TCU (transmission control unit) software and module faults — which Renault addressed on some cars — to worn dry-clutch friction surfaces and slow actuators. One documented Clio RS 200 EDC failure drew a quote of about $4,500 for the clutch pack alone.

Common Symptoms

Judder or shudder when pulling away
Jerky low-speed gearshifts around town
'Check auto gearbox' warning message
Clunking when engaging Drive or Reverse
Gearbox overheating warning in stop-start traffic

How to Fix

First step is a dealer software update with clutch touch-point relearn and adaptive reset, which cures many judder complaints; TCU replacement fixed others under Renault goodwill. Worn clutch packs or mechatronic faults require replacement of the clutch pack or repair of the mechatronic unit at a gearbox specialist.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $4,000

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High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

Community Reported

85 owners

On the 2005-2019 Renault Clio, the JH3 and JR5 manual gearboxes in the Clio develop differential bearing noise that progressively worsens. The bearings fail from inadequate lubrication at the differential end of the housing.

This issue also affects: Renault Megane

Common Symptoms

Humming noise in gear
Whine proportional to speed
Noise worse on deceleration
Metallic debris in gearbox oil

How to Fix

Replace the differential bearings and inspect the crown wheel and pinion for damage. A gearbox oil change with GL-5 75W-80 at 60,000 mile intervals can extend bearing life.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,000

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On the 2005-2012 Renault Clio, the 1.5 dCi K9K diesel suffers well-documented fuel injector failures, often triggered by injection pump wear or fuel contamination that sends metal debris through the common-rail system into the injectors. Honest John documented a 2007 Clio 1.5 dCi whose injection pump broke up and sent shards into the injectors, with a repair quote of over £3,600 plus VAT. Owners report sequential injector failures, 'injection fault' dash warnings, power loss, and no-start conditions; once the rail is contaminated, the pump, rail, and all four injectors typically need replacing together.

Common Symptoms

'Injection fault' warning on the dashboard
Loss of power under acceleration
Hard starting or complete no-start
Engine shuddering or rough running at idle
Glow plug warning light staying on

How to Fix

Replace the failed injector(s) with units coded to the ECU and renew the fuel filter; some injectors can be professionally refurbished. If the high-pressure pump has shed debris, the accepted fix is replacing the pump, rail, and all four injectors and flushing the fuel system, otherwise contamination causes repeat failures.

Typical repair cost:$350 - $4,500

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On the 2005-2020 Renault Clio, the electrically assisted steering column on the Clio III (2005-2012) is a notorious failure point: UK steering specialists describe complete column failure as 'a very common fault', caused by poor ground connections to the EPS motor or internal failure of the column's motor and control unit (fault code C1608). Assistance becomes intermittently heavy — sometimes in one direction only — before failing completely, leaving the car drivable but very heavy to steer. The problem resurfaced on the Clio V: a February 2020 EU/DVSA recall covered 2019-built cars for internal failure of the steering column motor control causing loss of assistance while driving.

Common Symptoms

Steering warning light appearing intermittently
Steering goes heavy intermittently, sometimes in one direction
'STOP' and steering fault message with total loss of assistance
Vibration through the wheel when turning

How to Fix

Clean and remake the EPS motor ground connections first; if the column itself has failed, fit a remanufactured or repaired EPS column (around £800 plus VAT and coding for a new unit; remanufactured units are cheaper). Clio V owners should check the DVSA/EU recall status and have the column replaced free by Renault if affected.

Typical repair cost:$700 - $1,800

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On the 2005-2019 Renault Clio, clio III and IV keycard models commonly refuse to start with a 'key card not detected' message. The flexible credit-card-style keycards are bent, sat on, and dropped, eventually killing the internal chip — UK auto locksmiths note both 3- and 4-button cards have a known chip failure — while the in-dash card reader and its antenna ring can also fail and mimic a bad card. Dealership replacement of a single coded card runs roughly €250-400, so owners frequently chase the wrong component without proper diagnosis.

Common Symptoms

'Key card not detected' message on the dash
Car fails to start even with a new card battery
Remote locking buttons stop working
Intermittent recognition — card works after reinsertion or wiggling

How to Fix

Fit a fresh CR2032 battery first, then have a diagnostic check confirm whether the reader actually detects card insertion before buying anything. Replace the failed keycard (auto locksmiths are far cheaper than dealers) or, if the reader is at fault, replace the card reader module.

Typical repair cost:$120 - $450

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On the 2005-2012 Renault Clio, the EGR valve on the 1.5 dCi clogs with soot and carbon, sticking open or closed — a fault so common on this engine that Renault specialists describe 1.5 dCis as suffering 'big time' with EGR problems, and Delphi published a dedicated repair guide for it. A valve stuck open causes rough running, black smoke, and hesitation; stuck closed it raises exhaust gas temperatures, which Honest John forum experts link to consequential turbo bearing failures. The fault commonly logs P2413 (EGR system performance) and recurs if the carbon-packed EGR housing is not also cleaned.

Common Symptoms

Black smoke under acceleration
Engine management light on
Hesitation or jerky running under load
Loss of power / limp-home mode
Rough or unstable idle

How to Fix

Remove and thoroughly clean the EGR valve and its housing of carbon; if the valve is physically worn or its tip has broken off, replace it. Persistent codes after replacement point to EGR wiring, vacuum lines, or the position sensor, which should be checked before fitting another valve.

Typical repair cost:$100 - $600

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Renault Clio problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 375+ owner reports, the 2000-2026 Renault Clio has 10 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Timing Belt Tensioner Failure, TCe Turbo Coolant Leak, 1.5 dCi (K9K) Fuel Injector and Injection Pump Failure. Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Renault Clio reliable?

The 2000-2026 Renault Clio has 10 known issues documented across 375+ owner reports. 6 issues are rated critical: Timing Belt Tensioner Failure and TCe Turbo Coolant Leak and 1.5 dCi (K9K) Fuel Injector and Injection Pump Failure and EDC Dual-Clutch Gearbox Judder, TCU Faults and Clutch Failure and Electric Power Steering (EPS) Column Failure and 1.2 Petrol Valve Cotter Defect — Engine Destruction (DVSA Recall). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Renault Clio problems?

Repair costs for known Renault Clio issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Timing Belt Tensioner Failure, typically costs $300-$600 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What year Renault Clio is the most reliable?

Reliability varies across model years of the Renault Clio. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2000-2026 Renault Clio with 10 documented issues documented across 375+ owner reports.

What is the 2000-2015 Renault Clio Timing Belt Tensioner Failure?

The timing belt tensioner bearing on Clio K-series engines can fail before the scheduled belt replacement interval, causing catastrophic engine damage. The water pump, which is driven by the timing belt, also fails prematurely. Repairs typically run $300-$600. Severity: high.

All 10 Known Issues

When Issues Typically Appear

2000-2015 Renault Clio: Timing Belt Tensioner Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2012-2026 Renault Clio: TCe Turbo Coolant Leak#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2010-2011 Renault Clio: 1.2 Petrol Valve Cotter Defect — Engine Destruction (DVSA Recall)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2000-2012 Renault Clio: Ignition Coil Pack Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2013-2019 Renault Clio: EDC Dual-Clutch Gearbox Judder, TCU Faults and Clutch Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2005-2019 Renault Clio: Gearbox Bearing Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2005-2012 Renault Clio: 1.5 dCi (K9K) Fuel Injector and Injection Pump Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2005-2020 Renault Clio: Electric Power Steering (EPS) Column Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2005-2019 Renault Clio: Keycard Not Detected / Card Reader Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2005-2012 Renault Clio: 1.5 dCi EGR Valve Sticking and Clogging#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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Other Renault Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Renault Clio problems?

Is the Renault Clio reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Renault Clio problems?

What year Renault Clio is the most reliable?

What is the 2000-2015 Renault Clio Timing Belt Tensioner Failure?

What is the 2012-2026 Renault Clio TCe Turbo Coolant Leak?

What is the 2005-2012 Renault Clio 1.5 dCi (K9K) Fuel Injector and Injection Pump Failure?

What is the 2013-2019 Renault Clio EDC Dual-Clutch Gearbox Judder, TCU Faults and Clutch Failure?

What is the 2005-2020 Renault Clio Electric Power Steering (EPS) Column Failure?

What is the 2010-2011 Renault Clio 1.2 Petrol Valve Cotter Defect — Engine Destruction (DVSA Recall)?

What is the 2000-2012 Renault Clio Ignition Coil Pack Failure?

What is the 2005-2019 Renault Clio Gearbox Bearing Failure?

What is the 2005-2019 Renault Clio Keycard Not Detected / Card Reader Failure?

What is the 2005-2012 Renault Clio 1.5 dCi EGR Valve Sticking and Clogging?