TransmissionHigh
EDC dual-clutch jerkiness and clutch actuator faults
- Typically appears
- 50,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Crawl in traffic and feel for clunks and hesitation
- Typical repair
- DCT clutch pack / mechatronic work · £900–£3,200
Is the 2012–2025 Renault Clio reliable?
Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
4.3/ 10
Buy with cautionOn our documented-fault scoring the Renault Clio rates 4.3 out of 10 · buy with caution. We hold 8 known faults for it and 3 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around electrical, engine and transmission. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.
Verdict · Walk unless the history is spotless
What the score is built from
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 3
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 1
Weak points cluster around electrical, engine, transmission, exhaust.
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Check this carThe faults that decide it
ExhaustHigh
1.5 dCi DPF clogging on short journeys
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check for regen history and warning lights
- Typical repair
- DPF forced regen or replacement · £250–£1,600
EngineHigh
Harsh metallic timing chain rattle on cold start on 1.2 TCe (H5F) engines, indicating chain stretch.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine from stone cold with the bonnet open. Listen intently to the right side of the engine block for a metallic rattling that lasts longer than three seconds.
- Typical repair
- Timing chain, tensioner & guides · £900–£2,400
ElectricalMedium
Keycard, immobiliser and window regulator faults
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Test both keycards, all windows and the boot release
- Typical repair
- Water-ingress trace & seal · £150–£800
EngineMedium
0.9 TCe turbo and coil-pack misfires
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Look for rough idle and engine light history
- Typical repair
- Turbocharger replacement · £750–£2,200
Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.
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