EngineMedium
Rear-mounted engine mount wear causing vibration
- Typically appears
- 50,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Feel for vibration through the cabin at idle and under load
2014–2023 Renault Twingo · common problems & known faults
A rear-engined city car shared with the Smart ForFour, unusual layout means buyers should check specific wear points not found on rivals.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2014–2023 Renault Twingo are Rear-mounted engine mount wear causing vibration, Automated manual gearbox jerky low speed changes and Rear suspension knock due to rear-engine weight distribution. Most reported issues are medium or low severity, but a pre-purchase inspection is still recommended. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
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Build the inspection planReliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Renault Twingo.
6.6/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 0
- Medium
- 5
- Low
- 3
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Known faults to check
TransmissionMedium
Automated manual gearbox jerky low speed changes
- Typically appears
- 40,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Drive at low speed and feel for hesitation between gears
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Build the inspection planElectricalLow
Central touchscreen freezing or losing connection
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Cycle through the touchscreen menus and Bluetooth pairing
SuspensionMedium
Rear suspension knock due to rear-engine weight distribution
- Typically appears
- 50,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Drive over bumps and listen for knocking from the rear
BodyworkLow
Front boot lid seal leaks causing damp front storage
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Check the front storage compartment for dampness
BodyworkMedium
Front bonnet panel release mechanism seizing, preventing access to front fluid reservoirs.
- Typically appears
- 30,000-50,000 miles or 4-5 years
- What to inspect
- Pop off the two small front grille covers, insert the ignition key into the lock, and attempt to slide the plastic bonnet panel forward. Check for excessive resistance.
Interior ElectricalLow
Heater blower motor resistor failure causing the cabin fan to only operate on the highest speed setting.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-60,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Turn the ignition on and cycle the interior climate control fan dial through speeds 1, 2, 3, and 4. If it only blows air on setting 4, the resistor pack requires replacement.
Steering and WheelsMedium
Severe inner edge tyre wear on the front wheels due to the aggressive 45-degree steering angle geometry.
- Typically appears
- 15,000-25,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Apply full steering lock to expose the inner wheel arches. Visually inspect the inner shoulder of both front tyres for excessive tread wear, bald spots, or exposed structural cords.
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Build my inspection planFrequently asked questions
Is the rear-engine layout a concern?
It is unusual but proven; engine mounts are the main wear point to check.
Should I avoid the automated manual gearbox?
It can feel jerky at low speed, so test drive thoroughly before deciding.
Is parts availability good?
Yes, though some parts are shared with the Smart ForFour rather than other Renaults.
Do the 1.0 SCe and 0.9 TCe engines use a timing belt or a timing chain?
Both the 1.0-litre SCe naturally aspirated and 0.9-litre TCe turbocharged engines are fitted with a timing chain rather than a rubber belt. These chains are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle and do not have a specified replacement interval, provided the vehicle receives regular oil changes using the correct grade.
Where are the routine fluid check points located on this vehicle?
Routine checks are split due to the rear-engine layout. The engine oil dipstick and filler cap are located under a bolted metal cover in the rear boot floor. Conversely, the coolant, brake fluid, and windscreen washer reservoirs are accessed by sliding the plastic front bonnet panel forward using the ignition key.
Where is the 12V battery located for jump-starting or replacement?
The 12V battery is located at the front of the vehicle, beneath the slide-forward plastic bonnet panel. To access it for jump-starting or replacement, you must unlock the front panel using the ignition key, slide it forward, and remove the plastic scuttle trim covering the battery tray.
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.
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