Used Renault Clio (Mk4, 2012-2019) - What should you look for?

It has its fair share of problems, but the Renault Clio should be no less reliable than rival superminis of the same age. There are plenty to choose from, so you can afford to be picky, while improvements over the car’s life mean the later cars are better than the earliest models.

Common used Renault Clio problems

Navigation

Standard sat-nav doesn’t allow full postcode searches. An upgrade is less than a fiver, but it’s a fiddly process.

Electrics

Ignition coils can fail, leading to poor running. Replacing the coil for around £40, plus fitting, solves the issue

Tyres

Tyre pressure-monitoring sensors aren’t always very robust; the only option is to replace them.

Sensors

Sensors for the anti-lock brakes can also fail. If there’s a fault it’ll be given away by a warning light on the dash. 

Recalls

Eight recalls is no cause for celebration. Two were for possible front brake hose chafing damage caused by the wheelarch liner. Another was for potential fuel leaks, while wheels falling off prompted two more.

The rear spoiler detaching led to a further campaign, and another recall was because of windscreen wiper defects in sub-zero conditions. The most recent recall was due to the rear seat hinges failing in a crash.