The Renault Clio has been one of the most popular small cars in the Netherlands for more than 30 years. The model, now in its fifth generation, is available with three or five doors. From the third generation, an estate car was also available (since 2008). At times, the Clio even competes with the Volkswagen Golf: in February 2020, the little Frenchman was Europe's best-selling car. In 2018, the Clio was number 2 as the best-selling car in the Netherlands. This popularity is mainly due to its modern look, innovative technology and low price, but unfortunately reliability is still sometimes lacking. Since its premiere in 1990, the Renault Clio repeatedly shone with numerous defects, weaknesses and recalls. You can sometimes lose track of things. For this reason, we have compiled a detailed overview of the latest Renault Clio models and their respective problem areas. This page lists common problems. If any items are missing, please let us know via the comment form at the bottom of this page so we can add to the page.
Problems Renault Clio V (from 2019)
In March 2019, the French carmaker presented the fifth generation Renault Clio. Compared to its predecessor, the latest series is somewhat shorter and flatter, making the model look even more sporty and modern. Nevertheless, the available space in the interior has grown thanks to the larger wheelbase. There is a choice of trim lines, as well as petrol and diesel powertrains. A hybrid model is also available.
Electronics problems are not uncommon
Modern technology has its pitfalls. And the Renault Clio V is no exception. It is not unusual for owners of the little Frenchman to complain about various electronic problems that cripple the system and affect its functionality. Whether it is a complete failure of the multimedia system, erroneous messages from the emergency brake assistant or problems with the start-stop system, the Clio often does what it wants. The reversing camera doesn't always work either. Sometimes a software or GPS update in the workshop helps, but sometimes it is also due to a weak battery causing the problems.
Recall: problem with the gearbox?
In early 2020, Renault announced a possible problem with the stop/brake switch on the Clio's automated gearbox. Due to a malfunction, it was possible to shift from P to R despite the brake not being activated. In Germany, some 240 vehicles had to go to the workshop, where the corresponding switch was checked and replaced if necessary.
Problems with Renault Clio IV (2012 to 2020)
Unlike its predecessors, the Renault Clio IV was only available as a five-door. The estate model (Clio Grandtour) was launched in March 2013. The French small car used the Renault-Nissan platform B as its technical base, which was also used in the previous models, but was revised for the fourth generation. A facelift in 2016 brought some changes, including modern LED headlights. The Renault Clio RS is especially popular, with its turbocharged petrol engine producing up to 200 hp.
As with its predecessor, the axle suspension also causes problems for the fourth generation. The brakes have been known as a weak point for several years and now the emissions test has been added to that. Feedback from numerous Clio owners has revealed criticism of the overall build quality of this car. From creaky seats to paint damage on delivery to sharp trim panels, everything comes up. Stove performance leaves much to be desired, according to many Renault drivers. Belt tongues can scratch the plastic if used carelessly and versatile rattling noises while driving complete the list of flaws.
Recall: from brake hoses to backrests
The Renault Clio IV has had numerous recalls. The brake hoses were at risk of being damaged, forcing Clio drivers to visit the workshop. It was possible for the brake hoses to abrade on the front wheel arch linings if they were not fitted properly. In addition, the possibility of the brake shoes moving when applying the parking brake and the pistons coming loose from the brake cylinder could not be ruled out.
Another recall concerned Renault Clio RS and Renault Clio GT special models. On these vehicles, the upper part of the roof spoiler could come off, posing a danger to other road users. The rear seat backrest also caused concerns. In an accident, it could not be ruled out that the hinge shaft in the frame of the rear seat might break, increasing the risk of injury to the occupants. Breakage of the right front brake caliper attachment, failure of the headlight height adjustment and possible damage to the front wheel hubs were also the reasons for further recalls. This does not put the Clio IV in a good light but if all goes well, many of these issues have been resolved by the recalls.
Problems with Renault Clio III (2005 to 2013)
In 2005, Renault continued the Clio success story with the third series. The model was available with three and five doors and was complemented by an estate car (Clio Grandtour) for the first time in 2008. In the same year, a minor facelift followed, which mainly included new engines and an adjustment to the numerous equipment lines. An extensive facelift followed in May 2009 to bring the Renault Clio into line with the current design line of the French. Like its successor, the third generation featured a sporty variant. The Renault Clio RS put no less than 201 hp on the tarmac.
The chassis as a weak point
The suspension of the Renault Clio III is known as a major weakness. Defects in the shock absorbers are not uncommon and are also regularly criticised during the main inspection. With increasing mileage, the problems steadily increase. The formation of rust is also a major problem in older vehicles. So paying close attention to soot is a must! Worn axle and steering joints manifest themselves through rumbling noises and spongy steering behaviour that is no longer precise and safe.
In terms of lighting, the Renault Clio III cannot shine. There is no area where the little Frenchman does not attract attention. Whether it is dipped headlights, indicators or rear lights: action is needed everywhere! The experts at specialist garages know that this Clio is well above average when it comes to defects. So pay close attention to the lighting and, if necessary, have it checked by a garage.
Don't worry about failure
When it comes to breakdown statistics, the Renault Clio doesn't stand out particularly, so motorists needn't worry about a sudden stop. This is especially true for vehicles built after 2008. Until then, the Clio was known for flat batteries, faulty crankshaft sensors and noticeable ignition coils. Various problems with the engine control only occurred in the first year. Furthermore, the Renault Clio is not often seen by the ANWB.
The braking system under criticism
Many Clio drivers have said that the little car's braking system causes problems. After everything stayed fine for the first few years, the defects piled up in the following years. High wear and tear is just one thing. Porous brake lines, failing parking brakes and problems with the brake discs cause further problems, especially during general inspection. Like the Clio IV and V, the Renault Clio III has not been trouble-free over the years and has experienced many recalls. This includes, for example, the possible malfunction of the automatic transmission, noticeable by display errors or independent shifting. Replacing the control unit solved the problem.
The gearbox often caused problems. Incorrect programming of the control unit could cause the automatic transmission's shifting processes to fail. In addition, the deformation of the torque converter could lead to shifting problems and even to the complete blocking of the transmission. Brake light switch failures and blocking of the air conditioning compressor, which could lead to tearing of the power steering drive belt, were also the cause of a recall. Furthermore, the third generation of the Renault Clio suffered from defective valve keys, which in the worst case could even cause engine damage. A check of the valve keys was completed after a few minutes, a necessary replacement took several hours.
List of known defects of the Renault Clio
- electronics problems
- weak axle stands
- weak shock absorbers
- worn-out brakes
- rattling sounds in the interior
- worn steering joints
- lighting defects
Conclusion: small car, big problems
The Renault Clio is not known as a carefree car for its owners. Especially with increasing age, the number of defects increases. That's when the great fear sets in at every inspection. Will it make it or do we have to come back again? In many cases, it comes down to the latter. And that also means that the repair costs go up. When buying a used Clio, it is worth investigating the known weak points. Otherwise the supposed bargain can quickly become a bad bargain.
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