With the presentation of the Renault Captur in 2013, the French carmaker broke new ground and launched a compact SUV for the first time. The Captur was a great success: some 1.2 million units were sold worldwide, and you can regularly see the Captur on Dutch roads.
We can reveal right now that this Frenchman is a very fine and reliable car. It is a spacious, modern, sporty and elegant SUV with a comfortable high entry. On this page, we take a closer look at the Captur, read on quickly.
Renault Captur hotspots and problems
What weak points and problem areas should Renault Captur drivers keep an eye on? On this page you'll find a collection of known issues and recalls. Do you have any points that should be added? Please let us know using the comment form at the bottom of this page!
Problems Renault Captur II (from 2019)
In mid 2019, Renault introduced the 2nd generation of the Captur, based on the Renault-Nissan CMF-B platform. This technical base is used in the Renault Clio V and the Nissan Juke, among others. The appearance of its predecessor is similar, but the space has grown. With the RS Line, Renault is also offering a sporty model of the Captur.
Software & electronics as a weak point
The new Renault Captur is causing annoyance to some owners because the electronics in this car often do what it wants. For some Renault drivers, the daily odometer automatically resets to zero, while for other owners the automatic start-stop system does not work. In addition, the lighting likes to go out of control and the tyre pressure monitoring system does not always work properly either. A software update usually helps get rid of the annoying problems.
Recall actions Renault Captur II
The 2019 Renault Captur has several recalls to its name. Following an investigation at the Federal Motor Transport Authority, it remains unclear whether it is the first or second generation of the compact SUV. Intervention by the manufacturer is necessary due to a problem with the alternator, among other things, which can lead to a short circuit and therefore a possible fire hazard. The Renault Captur is also notable for poor steering, which can lead to a failure of the power steering. A bad glue joint, which can cause the glass panoramic roof to come loose, also forces Renault owners to go to the garage.
Problems Renault Captur I (2013 to 2019)
Since June 2013, the first generation Renault Captur has been sold in this country. The compact SUV shares its technical base with the Renault Clio IV, which is not always an advantage. The chassis is not designed for the high weight, which is reflected in the problems. A facelift followed in the summer of 2017, but this brought only visual changes and qualitative optimisations in the interior.
Captur axle suspension as weak point
The Renault Captur's chassis is considered the biggest weakness of this compact SUV. Already during the first general inspection, investigation inspections complained about the axle suspension. This is where the Captur scores well below average.
Decreasing battery with age
When it comes to roadside assistance, you can hit the road with peace of mind with the Renault Captur. Only rarely does roadside assistance need to get stranded Captur models back on the road. Still, there are typical areas of concern such as a declining battery, especially on 2013 and 2014 vehicles. It is worth checking the battery regularly and replacing it if there is even the slightest sign.
Problems with the lighting
The first Renault Captur models were equipped with classic halogen lighting, which was often noticed during general inspections. Known defects include misaligned dipped headlights and faulty headlights. During the facelift in summer 2017, the compact SUV received LED daytime running lights, and LED headlights are also available at extra cost. This should make those concerns a thing of the past.
Recall actions Captur I
The first generation Renault Captur has had hardly any recalls. It started with the inaccurately mounted wheel arch linings, which also caused problems on other Renault models. The sharp-edged plastic parts may have rubbed against the brake hoses, causing damage and loss of braking power.
Another recall was required due to a faulty calibration in the engine control system. This underestimated the amount of sulphur emitted from the fuel. The start of the desulphurisation phase was delayed, which ultimately led to reduced effectiveness of NOx after-treatment. Reprogramming the injector controller solved the problem.
Other recalls included the headlight height adjustment, which could fail, a reduced function of the left front seat belt and a possible break in the front wheel hub.
Known issues with the Renault Captur
- Software & electronics problems
- Poor axle suspension
- Decreasing foot brake
- Problems with the lighting
- Rust under the tailgate handle
- Battery as the main failure point
Conclusion: A trouble-free car!
Granted, the Renault Captur has been on the market for less than 10 years, so it is difficult to make a long-term prognosis of the compact SUV's reliability. One thing is certain, so far the Frenchman has only been able to convince. Both testing bodies and Renault drivers are satisfied.
Buying a new Renault Captur?
A Buy Renault Captur new? That seems like a great idea to us! The CAPTUR is available in many versions. For sportiness, go for the R.S. Line version. If you prefer to save on running costs, go for the CAPTUR Hybrid or the CAPTUR Plug-in Hybrid. If you value luxury and comfort more, the Initiale Paris version is the best choice!
It is a spacious, modern, sporty and elegant B-segment SUV. It has a comfortable high entry that also provides wider and better visibility on the road. Do you regularly drive with a trailer or caravan? The CAPTUR has a maximum towing weight of as much as 1,500 kg, depending on the engine.
In addition, this car is fully customisable with numerous options, paint colours (including two-tone) and accessories.