Used Renault Clio Hatchback 2005 - 2013 reliability review
The Renault Clio is a stylish small car that's comfortable, spacious and has a classy interior
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What's the used Renault Clio like?
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Reliability
Stuart Milne
Updated: 1 December 2016
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What should I look for in a used Renault Clio?
Electrical faults are quite common on the Clio, so make sure all the electrics work – or at least, make sure you know how much they’re going to cost to fix if you don’t.
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It’s also important to make sure there’s evidence of regular servicing, preferrably in the form of a full service history with evidence of the cambelt having been replaced whenever it was due to have been. The cambelt isn’t a cheap job, and the intervals are short, so some people will have skimped on this – but if it breaks, it can ruin the engine and lead to a costly bill that might be more than the car is worth.
What are the most common problems with a used Renault Clio?
Thankfully, there are relatively few major faults reported with the standard Clio, though check diesel models carefully as they’re quite mechanically complex. If you’re buying a hot Renault Sport model, keep an eye out for gearbox problems – while the gearbox is normally stiff when cold, it should loosen up and give smooth, trouble-free gearchanges once it’s warmed up
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Is a used Renault Clio reliable?
The Clio scores reasonably well in the What Car? Reliability Index, which measures reliability based on warranty claims. Renault as a whole has a rather average reliability reputation, though. So while the Clio doesn’t look like a reliability disaster, neither is it a paragon of dependability.
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: Stuart Milne
Title: Digital editor
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Stuart has been a motoring journalist for more than 25 years, writing and editing for a wide range of consumer titles. Today, Stuart is responsible for the smooth running of whatcar.com and all of its related social and digital channels. And he’s the man responsible for making sure you're able to find What Car?’s industry-leading content whenever you search for it.
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