Used Renault Clio 2019-present reliability review
The Renault Clio is a smart small car choice that's reasonably priced when used. The later, facelifted cars are definitely worth seeking out
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What's the used Renault Clio like?
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Reliability
George Hill
Updated: 12 March 2026
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What should I look for in a used Renault Clio?
When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.
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Most examples of this generation of Clio will still be within the Renault franchised dealer network and should have been refurbished to look like new, so your walk-around looking for damage shouldn't take long.
Make sure that the infotainment system has received the latest software updates to ensure it operates as it should.
What are the most common problems with a used Renault Clio?
Power steering failure: A small number of Clios made between 1 June and 31 November 2019 have an issue with the power steering system. A warning message may appear in the instrument cluster, and the driver may notice less assistance, too. If this happens to you or you're informed of this recall, it'll need to have the steering column replaced by your Renault dealer, but this won't cost you anything – all recalls are carried out free of charge.
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Click here for more information. Contact your local Renault dealer if you believe your vehicle is involved in a recall.
Is a used Renault Clio reliable?
The Renault Clio finished in a disappointing 18th place out of 26 cars in the small car class in our latest 2025 What Car? Reliability Survey. It did so with a good overall score, though, of 93.7%.
As a car brand, Renault ranked 20th out of 30 manufacturers featured with an overall score of 91.0%. This put it above Ford, Hyundai, Kia and Volkswagen, but below Citroen, Dacia, Honda and Toyota.
Used Renault Clio: owners' reliability data
As part of our What Car? Reliability Survey, our readers expressed varied opinions on Renault Clio reliability, in regards to petrol and hybrid models from 2019 onwards.
A significant number of respondents reported satisfaction with the car's general dependability, noting that the vehicle rarely required unscheduled repairs. However, there were notable grievances concerning electrical issues, particularly with the hybrid models, which often necessitated dealer intervention.
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Feedback on dealer services was mixed. Several readers appreciated the responsiveness and professionalism of the dealerships when handling repairs and warranty claims. Conversely, a few mentioned experiencing delays in repair times and a lack of clear communication, which led to frustration.
Tips & Advice
Check for outstanding recalls
Many cars are recalled so that faults can be put right. Recall work shouldn’t cost you a penny, and they’ll make your car safer or more mechanically robust. Checking if your car has been recalled is easy
Choose the right breakdown cover
You may already have a breakdown policy through your home insurance or new-car warranty so check to avoid paying twice
Make sure you have warranty cover
New cars usually have warranties that last between three and seven years that can help cover the cost of mechanical faults. But this protection can last longer with an extended warranty
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About the writer
Name: George Hill
Title: Used car writer
Follow George Hill on
George Hill first joined the What Car? team as a staff writer in 2021, before becoming a used car writer in 2024 and a reviewer in 2026. In his current role he writes new car reviews for What Car? magazine and whatcar.com.
If you follow What Car? on social media, you might see him presenting the odd video on new cars too.
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