SuspensionHigh
Front suspension arm and bush wear worsened by large 20-inch wheels
- Typically appears
- 50,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for knocking over bumps and inspect tyres for uneven wear
2016–2023 Renault Scenic · common problems & known faults
A stylish family MPV with large alloy wheels and tech-heavy trim, so buyers should focus on suspension wear and electrical reliability.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2016–2023 Renault Scenic are Front suspension arm and bush wear worsened by large 20-inch wheels, Timing chain stretch causing a distinct metallic rattle on cold start, potentially leading to misfires or complete engine failure and Digital instrument display and multimedia system glitches. 2 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Turn these known faults into a step-by-step viewing plan for this exact Renault Scenic · $9.
Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Renault Scenic.
5.2/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 2
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
ElectricalMedium
Digital instrument display and multimedia system glitches
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Start the car and check the digital dash and infotainment for freezing
Turn these known faults into a step-by-step viewing plan for this exact Renault Scenic · $9.
Build the inspection planEngineMedium
1.5 dCi diesel injector and DPF issues on short journeys
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for a DPF warning light and rough idle after a cold start
TransmissionMedium
EDC dual-clutch automatic hesitation at low speed
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Drive at low speed in stop-start traffic and feel for jerky changes
BodyworkLow
Panoramic sunroof seal leaks causing headlining stains
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Check headlining for water staining and test sunroof drainage
Engine (1.2 TCe Petrol)High
Timing chain stretch causing a distinct metallic rattle on cold start, potentially leading to misfires or complete engine failure.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Ensure the engine is completely cold. Start the vehicle with the bonnet open and listen closely to the right side of the engine for a harsh metallic rattling lasting 3-5 seconds.
BrakesMedium
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) motors sticking or failing, resulting in binding rear brakes or a dashboard warning message.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- With the engine running, manually apply and release the EPB switch 4-5 times. Listen for uneven motor sounds from the rear wheels and check the dash for 'Check Parking Brake' warnings.
Electrical/BodyLow
Hands-free keycard proximity sensors failing in the exterior door handles, preventing the car from unlocking automatically.
- Typically appears
- 4-6 years
- What to inspect
- Lock the vehicle and keep the keycard in your pocket. Approach the car and pull each of the four exterior door handles in turn to ensure the system detects the card and unlocks the doors instantly.
Inspecting a Renault Scenic?
Build a tickable plan for the viewing · where to look, what a bad result means and what to ask the seller. One-off price $9.
Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Are the large alloy wheels a problem?
They increase suspension wear, so check bushes and tyres closely.
Is the digital dashboard reliable?
It can develop glitches with age, so test it thoroughly before buying.
What is the best gearbox to choose?
A manual avoids the low speed hesitation sometimes seen with the EDC automatic.
Is the 1.2 TCe or 1.3 TCe petrol engine the better choice?
The later 1.3 TCe, introduced in 2018, is vastly superior. The earlier 1.2 TCe suffers from well-documented high oil consumption and premature timing chain wear. The 1.3 TCe, co-developed with Mercedes-Benz, offers better reliability, improved fuel economy, and stronger performance. Always steer buyers towards the 1.3 TCe where budget allows.
What should I check regarding the rear seating system?
The Mk4 Scenic replaced removable rear seats with a 'One-Touch' electronic folding system operated via the boot panel or infotainment screen. Check that all rear seats drop smoothly when the buttons are pressed. The electronic release catches can occasionally jam or fail, requiring a replacement latch mechanism which is labour-intensive.
Are there any common issues with the climate control system?
The air conditioning condenser is highly vulnerable to stone damage through the wide lower front grille. If the climate control fails to blow cold air, a punctured condenser is the most likely culprit. Inspecting the lower grille for impact damage and testing the air conditioning on its lowest setting is essential.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.
More Renault models
Buying a Renault Scenic? Build a step-by-step viewing plan for this exact car · $9.
Build the plan