28 sourced reports, with what to check before you buy. Each one links to the page it was reported on.
The stop switch for the automatic gear selector can fail, causing starting problems or loss of drive. This is a known recall issue on 2019 models, so buyers should confirm the recall has been performed.
What to check. Test the gear lever through all positions, verify the brake pedal signal and normal starting operation. Ask for proof that recall work was completed.
Reported on: clickmechanic.com
Older CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) gearboxes in automatic transmissions suffer from jerky shifts and delayed responses, indicating internal wear or failure.
What to check. Test drive the car to check for jerky or delayed gear shifts. Listen for unusual noises and verify the condition of the transmission fluid and service history.
Reported on: carnews.nl
Found with a diagnostic scan
The engine bay wiring loom near the ECU can chafe through due to a hard rubber cover, causing electrical interference and potential ECU damage. This is a known design fault that can lead to widespread electrical problems and expensive repairs.
What to check. Ask for service records showing if the updated wiring loom was installed. Visually inspect the top left engine bay wiring near the ECU for chafing or exposed wires if accessible. Test for intermittent electrical faults during a test drive.
Reported on: cartechelectronics.com
Found with a diagnostic scan
This affects diesel Clio 5 models with AdBlue. Faults cause false warnings like 'AdBlue low' and can prevent the engine from starting. Sensors, clogging, or calibration issues are typical, and repairs can be expensive.
What to check. Check for AdBlue warning lights on dash, ask for service history of AdBlue system, and scan OBD for related codes (e.g., P20EE, P204F) to identify active faults.
Reported on: arizacilik.com
Found with a diagnostic scan
The electric power steering can suddenly stiffen or show a warning, making the car hard to steer. This is a known chronic issue on Clio 5 that may require a software update or reset. It is not something a typical pre-purchase inspection would catch.
What to check. During the test drive, check for steering stiffness at low speeds, warning lights on the dashboard, and any unusual noises. Ask if the power steering system has had a software update or repair.
Reported on: arizacilik.com
Found with a diagnostic scan
On Clio 5 with direct-injection engines (1.0 TCe, 1.3 TCe, 1.5 dCi), a failing low-pressure fuel pump, high-pressure pump, or rail pressure sensor can cause low fuel pressure and lean running, triggering an injection warning. If ignored, it can damage injectors and the engine.
What to check. During a viewing, start the car and watch for the injection warning light. Perform an OBD scan for fuel pressure-related DTCs (e.g., P0087, P0190, P0191) and check fuel pressure at idle and under load if possible.
Reported on: kshaber.com.tr
Found with a diagnostic scan
Renault Clio petrol engines with direct injection are prone to fuel pump and injector failures. This can cause poor performance and, if ignored, potentially serious engine damage. Replacing these parts is costly, so it's a key risk to assess before buying.
What to check. During viewing, check for fault codes P0087/P0088 (fuel pressure), listen for injector ticking, and ask about fuel pump or injector replacement history.
Reported on: carnews.nl
Found with a diagnostic scan
A specific batch of Renault Clio models (June–November 2019) suffered power steering failure requiring a free recall replacement of the steering column. This affects steering assist and may trigger warning messages.
What to check. Check if the vehicle was made between **1 June and 31 November 2019** and verify if the recall (steering column replacement) has been completed. Look for warning messages in the instrument cluster or reduced power steering assist.
Reported on: autotrader.co.za, whatcar.com
2019 Renault Clio 5 models have been recalled for a short-circuiting risk in the electrical system. Electrical faults are a chronic issue across Clio models, so this is a known risk for buyers. Check that the recall work has been done on the car.
What to check. Ask for service records proving the recall was performed. Check for any warning lights, especially electrical/charging system. Have a professional scan for DTCs in the BCM/electrical modules.
Reported on: autotrader.co.za
Found with a diagnostic scan
A recall for 2019 Renault Clio V models addresses an internal failure in the steering column motor control, which can cause sudden loss of power steering at low speeds. This is a safety-critical electrical issue that buyers cannot detect from a standard inspection. It is specific to certain 2019 models and should be verified before purchase.
What to check. Check if the vehicle's VIN is included in the steering column motor control recall and confirm the recall repair has been completed. During the test drive, pay attention to any unusual steering effort at low speeds or warning lights on the dashboard.
Reported on: clickmechanic.com
Found by looking
In turbocharged Clio 5 models, small leaks in the turbo hoses or intercooler allow air to escape, upsetting the airflow sensors. The engine computer then shows a 'check injection' warning, and prolonged leaks can damage the turbo and intercooler.
What to check. Check turbo hoses and intercooler for cracks, loose clamps, or oil traces. Listen for air hissing under acceleration. Ask for a diagnostic scan to see if MAP/MAF inconsistency codes (e.g., P0101) are present; a pressure test may reveal leaks.
Reported on: kshaber.com.tr
Found with a diagnostic scan
On TCe petrol engines, worn spark plugs or ignition coils can cause misfires. The ECU detects this and shows an 'injection control' warning, and the car enters limp mode. If ignored, this can lead to serious engine damage.
What to check. Check for stored misfire codes (e.g., P0300-P0304). Look for signs of rough idle or hesitation during test drive. If possible, inspect spark plug condition and consider coil health, especially on higher-mileage TCe units.
Reported on: kshaber.com.tr
Found by looking
Chronic issue where the instrument cluster fails to respond correctly to key positions (e.g., '2' position) in 1.0 TCe Clio V models, causing all lights except the engine warning lamp to remain off. This suggests a potential electrical or software defect in the lighting control system or key fob interface.
What to check. Test the instrument cluster by cycling the key through all positions (0, 1, 2, 3) while observing if all lights (dashboard, dome, hazard, etc.) activate properly. Verify if the issue persists after a key battery replacement or cluster reset.
Reported on: forum.donanimarsivi.com
Found by looking
Incorrectly fitted brake hose protectors can cause premature wear and brake fluid leaks, posing a safety risk.
What to check. Check for proper installation of brake hose protectors and inspect hoses for signs of wear or leaks during a test drive or inspection.
Reported on: autotrader.co.za
Found with a diagnostic scan
Moisture can enter the engine fuse box area and cause corrosion on CAN-bus pins. This increases resistance and disrupts communication between the ECU and other modules, leading to warning lights and possible starting or driveability issues.
What to check. Inspect the engine fuse box and ECU connectors for moisture, green corrosion, or damaged pins. Ask about any history of communication error codes (ue.g., U0100) and consider having the CAN-bus resistance checked.
Reported on: mrthaber.com.tr
Found with a diagnostic scan
The oxygen (lambda) sensor measures exhaust oxygen and helps the engine computer adjust the fuel mixture. If it gets covered in soot or fails, the computer can set the wrong mixture, triggering an 'injection error' warning, reduced performance, and over time possible damage to the catalytic converter. This can be a costly repair.
What to check. At viewing, check for any warning lights on the dashboard, especially injection/engine light. If possible, run an OBD scan to check for oxygen sensor related fault codes (e.g., P0130-P0167). Ask for maintenance records related to exhaust or emissions.
Reported on: kshaber.com.tr
Owners of Renault Clio 5 (2019–present) frequently report electrical faults, especially in hybrid versions, often requiring dealer intervention. This suggests a chronic electrical problem that could mean repair costs for a buyer.
What to check. At viewing, test all electrical features (lights, windows, infotainment, climate). Check for warning lights on the dash, especially hybrid system warnings. Ask for service history showing any electrical repairs; consider a diagnostic scan for stored fault codes.
Reported on: whatcar.com
Found with a diagnostic scan
The Clio 5 has a known issue with ignition coils failing prematurely, causing engine misfires and a check engine light. This can lead to rough running, poor fuel economy, and potentially damage the catalytic converter if ignored. It is a specific electrical engine problem not detected by a standard pre-purchase inspection.
What to check. Use an OBD scanner to check for misfire codes (e.g., P0300). Ask about recent ignition coil replacements, listen for rough idle, and inspect the engine bay for signs of moisture or damage near coils.
Reported on: mithaber.com.tr
Found by looking
Owners report that the multimedia system in the Clio 5 frequently freezes or responds slowly, and smartphone connectivity (Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) is unstable. This is an electrical issue that can be costly to repair if the unit needs replacement. It is a common complaint so buyers should test the system during a viewing.
What to check. During the test drive, use the touchscreen to navigate menus, try connecting a smartphone via Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and watch for any freezing, slow response, or system reboots. If the system has been reset or shows signs of previous repair, ask for service history.
Reported on: carnews.nl
Found with a diagnostic scan
Diesel Clios driven mainly on short trips can suffer from a clogged particulate filter (DPF). This causes reduced performance and higher emissions, and replacing the DPF is expensive.
What to check. Check DPF ash load with a diagnostic tool, look for DPF warning light, and ask about the car's typical driving route (short trips increase risk).
Reported on: carnews.nl
Noticed on a test drive
Chronic squeaking noise from the clutch when pressed, often due to premature wear of the throw-out bearing or pressure plate components.
What to check. Press the clutch pedal and listen for unusual squeaking or grinding noises. Check for excessive play or wear in the clutch components.
Reported on: arizacilik.com
Owners of manual transmission Clio models frequently report slipping clutches, difficulty engaging gears, and premature clutch wear, indicating a chronic design or manufacturing flaw in the clutch mechanism.
What to check. Check for clutch pedal play, unusual noises during engagement, and test for smooth gear shifts. Look for signs of clutch fluid leaks or worn clutch components.
Reported on: clickmechanic.com
Found with a diagnostic scan
The EGR valve recirculates exhaust gas to reduce emissions. In city driving, it can clog with soot, causing poor combustion and triggering limp mode. This is a known issue on 1.5 dCi engines.
What to check. Check for engine warning light or limp mode during test drive. Look for service history showing EGR cleaning/replacement. Diagnostic trouble codes like P0400-P0403 or P0405 may indicate EGR issues.
Reported on: kshaber.com.tr
Found with a diagnostic scan
Clio 5 can develop loose or corroded ground connections over time. This increases electrical resistance and disrupts signals between control modules, triggering warning lights and drivability problems. A buyer wouldn't know about this from a standard inspection.
What to check. Inspect battery terminals and ground cables (negative to body, body to engine) for tightness and corrosion. Ask the dealer to run a CAN-bus diagnostic check; U0100 may indicate this issue.
Reported on: mrthaber.com.tr
Found with a diagnostic scan
The Clio 5's electronic brake system has a known pattern of ABS and wheel speed sensor faults, causing warning lights and safety system deactivation. This is a model-specific reliability issue that may not be visible during a routine inspection if the light is intermittent.
What to check. Check for ABS/ESP warning lights on the dashboard. Test drive while monitoring for unusual ABS activation. If possible, use an OBD scanner to read DTC codes related to wheel speed sensors.
Reported on: whocanfixmycar.com
Found with a diagnostic scan
The Clio 5's intake manifold and vacuum hoses are prone to leaks, causing uncontrolled air intake. This disrupts the air-fuel ratio calculation by the ECU, leading to lean mixtures and misfires (P0300). This is a chronic issue due to design or material weaknesses in the intake components.
What to check. Listen for hissing sounds near the intake manifold or vacuum hoses. Check for cracks, loose connections, or degraded seals in the intake system, including the PCV valve and vacuum lines.
Reported on: mithaber.com.tr
The Clio's brake pedal switch is a known weak point. When it fails, it can trigger a 'braking fault' warning even though the brakes themselves work fine. This can be confusing and may require a replacement part, which is cheap but not something a standard inspection would detect.
What to check. At viewing, ask if the braking fault warning has ever appeared. If possible, test the brake lights and check for any stored fault codes related to the brake pedal switch (e.g., P0571).
Reported on: whocanfixmycar.com
Found by looking
Chronic noise in electric windows due to wear or looseness in the window regulator mechanism, requiring tightening, adjustment, or replacement.
What to check. Test electric windows for noise during operation. Inspect the window regulator and mounting points for wear or looseness.
Reported on: whocanfixmycar.com
Kriko reads a listing and tells you which of these apply to that exact product. It runs on your computer, needs no account and is free.
These reports come from the pages linked under each item: owner forums, repair guides and workshops. They are not a diagnosis of any one unit, and a careful check of the one you are buying still applies.
Text from the Kriko Cars catalog, version 0.1.4, under the CC-BY-SA-4.0 license.
