Renault brand mark

Is the 2016–2023 Renault Scenic reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

5.2/ 10
Mixed

On our documented-fault scoring the Renault Scenic rates 5.2 out of 10 · mixed. We hold 8 known faults for it and 2 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around suspension, electrical and engine. 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 · Negotiate · budget for the known faults

What the score is built from

Critical
0
High
2
Medium
4
Low
2

Weak points cluster around suspension, electrical, engine, transmission.

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The faults that decide it

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
Typical repair
Suspension refresh (per axle) · £250–£1,100
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.
Typical repair
Timing chain, tensioner & guides · £900–£2,400
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
Typical repair
Infotainment repair or software fix · £120–£1,200
EngineMedium

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
Typical repair
DPF forced regen or replacement · £250–£1,600
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
Typical repair
DCT clutch pack / mechatronic work · £900–£3,200

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

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