30 sourced reports, with what to check before you buy. Each one links to the page it was reported on.
Costly or dangerous
1.2 TCe (h5f) excessive oil consumption
Found by looking
Owners report this engine burns oil from around 85,000–110,000 km, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not monitored. It's a known issue specific to this engine, not general to all cars.
What to check. Check oil level on the dipstick (should be within marks). Look for blue smoke from exhaust on start-up and during acceleration. Ask for service records showing oil top-ups or frequent oil changes.
The camshaft position sensor on the 1.2 TCe (H5F) engine is a known weak point. When it fails, the engine may run poorly, lose power, or fail to start. This is a chronic issue reported on this specific engine.
What to check. Ask if the engine warning light has ever appeared. Use an OBD scanner to check for camshaft sensor fault codes (e.g., P0340). Also, test drive to see if the engine stalls or hesitates.
The 1.2 TCe engine is known to burn oil excessively, especially with mileage and hard driving. This can lead to catalytic converter damage, low oil warnings, and expensive repairs. A standard pre-purchase inspection may not measure the actual oil consumption rate.
What to check. Ask for service records showing oil top-ups, inspect for blue smoke on cold start and acceleration, check oil level and condition, and look for oily residue in the intake system. Consider a compression or leak-down test.
The 1.2 TCe engine (code H5F) is known for excessive oil consumption, with some owners adding half a liter every 1,000 km. This can cause premature engine wear and expensive repairs. This is a chronic, configuration-specific problem that a short inspection may not reveal.
What to check. Ask for service history and check if oil consumption was addressed. At viewing, check oil level and look for blue exhaust smoke. A compression test may hint at issues, but oil consumption often requires long-term monitoring.
The 1.2 TCe (H5F) engine has a known reputation for overheating, which can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed. This is a specific problem for this engine code, not a generic issue affecting all cars.
What to check. During the test drive, monitor the temperature gauge for any spikes. After the drive, check coolant level and condition, look for leaks around the engine bay, and inspect the cooling fan operation. Ask about prior thermostat or water pump replacements.
The H5F engine in some Renault and Nissan vehicles may consume oil excessively, which can lead to engine damage and costly repairs. This is a known issue specific to this engine code and is not reliably detected during a standard pre-purchase inspection.
What to check. Check the oil level and condition; look for blue smoke from the exhaust during a test drive, especially after acceleration. Ask for service records showing oil top-up frequency.
H5F (1.2 TCe) wastegate clogging can cause turbo overspeed failure
Found with a diagnostic scan
The wastegate is a valve that regulates exhaust flow to the turbo. If it clogs, the turbo can overspeed and fail catastrophically. This is specific to the H5F 1.2 TCe engine and can lead to expensive turbo replacement.
What to check. At viewing, check for any turbo-related fault codes (e.g., P0299, P0234). Listen for abnormal turbo whine or lack of boost during a test drive. If possible, have the wastegate actuator inspected for free movement.
The 1.2 TCe (H5F) engine can start consuming excessive oil after around 70,000 km. This is a known weakness that may lead to expensive engine damage if not monitored. Buyers should check oil levels and service records.
What to check. At viewing, check engine oil level and look for blue exhaust smoke on startup. Ask whether the car uses oil between services and if any oil-consumption repair has been done. A compression test can reveal ring or valve seal wear.
H5F 1.2 TCe excessive oil consumption from piston rings
Found by looking
The H5F 1.2 TCe engine is known to burn oil due to piston ring wear, which can cause engine damage and costly repairs. This issue is specific to this engine type and often appears between 40,000 and 100,000 km.
What to check. Check engine oil level when cold; look for blue smoke on startup; ask for service history showing oil top-ups or consumption complaints; consider a compression/leak-down test.
The Renault 1.2 TCe engine (H5F) is known for timing chain stretch and failure as it ages. This can cause rattling noises on start-up and, if ignored, lead to serious engine damage. The problem is mileage-related and not detectable by a standard pre-purchase inspection beyond listening for noise.
What to check. Listen for a rattling or whirring noise from the timing chain area on cold start or idle. Check service history for timing chain replacement. A diagnostic scan may show camshaft/crankshaft correlation faults (e.g., P0011/P0016).
H5F 408 engine: oil consumption and timing chain stretch
Found with a diagnostic scan
The 1.2-litre petrol engine in some Renault Clios burns a lot of oil and has timing chain problems. It can need a litre of oil every 1,000 km, and the chain can stretch, leading to costly repairs. These issues were serious enough to cause a class-action lawsuit.
What to check. Check oil level and service history for oil top-ups. Listen for rattle on cold start (timing chain). Look for oil leaks around crankshaft seal and crankcase ventilation.
The H5F engine (also used by Nissan as HRA2DDT) is known to burn oil excessively. This can lead to low oil levels between services and, if unnoticed, can cause serious engine damage. This is a recurring problem reported by many owners and is the subject of a legal action in 2022.
What to check. Check oil level and condition at viewing; look for service records showing frequent oil top-ups. If possible, ask for an oil consumption test. Listen for unusual engine noises and check for blue smoke from exhaust, especially after idle.
The timing chain in this engine can stretch or jump teeth, causing loss of synchronization and potentially severe internal engine damage. This may happen prematurely due to manufacturing defects or high mileage, making it a known chronic issue.
What to check. Listen for rattling noise from the timing chain area, especially on cold start. Check for DTCs like P0010/P0011 indicating cam/crank correlation issues. Verify maintenance records for timing chain service.
The H5F (1.2 TCe) engine has a known problem where the turbocharger shaft wears, causing a whistling noise and eventually loss of boost. This can lead to expensive turbo replacement.
What to check. During a test drive, listen for a whistling or whining sound from the engine bay, especially under acceleration. Check for turbo boost codes (e.g., P0299) and oil leaks around the turbo.
The 1.2 TCe engine (code h5f) has reported turbocharger failures at around 40,000 km, which is unusually early. This suggests a design or quality defect, and replacing a turbo is an expensive repair. The failure may occur without obvious warning and is not easily caught by a standard inspection.
What to check. At viewing, check for turbo whine or smoke, inspect oil quality and level, and ask about any turbo work in the service history. A diagnostic scan may reveal boost-pressure or turbo codes.
The 1.2 TCe engine (code h5f) has a known tendency for turbocharger failure, often leading to loss of power and expensive replacement. This is a model-specific issue that a standard inspection may not detect before purchase. Owners frequently report this problem, so it should be factored into buying decisions.
What to check. Check for turbo whine or lag during a test drive, look for oil leaks around the turbo, and scan for DTCs like P0299 (underboost) or P0298 (overboost). Verify engine oil change history, as poor oil maintenance accelerates turbo wear.
Renault 1.2 TCe (H5F) timing chain wear and oil consumption
Found with a diagnostic scan
This engine has known chronic issues with the timing chain, excessive oil consumption, and turbocharger failures. These problems can lead to major engine damage and expensive repairs. A standard inspection may not catch early signs, making it a significant risk.
What to check. Listen for a rattle on cold start (timing chain), check oil level and for blue smoke (oil consumption), and verify the turbocharger operation. Ask for service history showing any timing chain replacement or warranty extension work.
Renault H5F: excessive oil consumption causes camshaft wear
Found by looking
The H5F engine has a chronic defect of excessive oil consumption, leading to low lubrication, camshaft lobe wear, and eventually complete engine failure. This is a predictable, config-specific risk that a standard inspection may not catch.
What to check. Check engine oil level and condition, listen for unusual top-end noise, look for blue smoke from exhaust, and consider an oil consumption test if possible.
The H5F 1.2 TCe engine has a known problem with timing chain stretching, which can cause rattling and eventually severe engine damage. This typically occurs between 60,000 and 120,000 km and may cost €700–€1,500 to repair. It is a predictable, expensive issue not detectable by a routine visual inspection.
What to check. Listen for a rattling noise from the engine on cold start, especially within the first few seconds. Check the service history for timely oil changes and any tensioner replacement. If possible, have a mechanic perform a quick diagnostic check; DTC codes like P0011 or P0016 may indicate timing issues.
The turbocharger on the 1.2 TCe engine is known to be sensitive. Owners frequently report boost pressure loss, whistling noises, and reduced performance, often leading to costly replacement. This is a common issue to verify before purchase.
What to check. During a test drive, listen for turbo whistling and check for lack of boost. Review service history for regular oil changes, as turbo failures often relate to oil starvation. If possible, perform a boost pressure leak test.
The 1.2 TCe engine (code h5f) is known for turbocharger problems, often caused by oil starvation, wastegate actuator failure, or carbon buildup. These issues lead to loss of power and can result in expensive repairs.
What to check. Check engine oil level and service history for regular oil changes. Listen for turbo whine or unusual noises during test drive. Look for oil leaks around the turbo area. Consider a boost pressure test and scan for DTCs like P0299.
Reports indicate the 1.2 TCe engine can suffer premature turbocharger failure, often linked to oil starvation or contamination. A failed turbo causes power loss and requires expensive replacement unless caught early.
What to check. During the test drive, listen for a high-pitched whistle or loss of acceleration. Check engine oil level and condition, and look for excessive smoke or oil leaks. Diagnostic codes such as P0299 or P0234 may indicate turbo issues.
The h5f is a dual-clutch (EDC) transmission used with the 1.2 TCe engine. Owners report jerky shifting at low speeds, often requiring software updates or a costly clutch replacement. This is a known issue you can check for on a test drive and in service history.
What to check. Take a slow-speed test drive in stop-and-go traffic; jerky shifts indicate a problem. Ask for proof of the EDC software update recall and any clutch replacement. Also check for transmission warning lights.
The 1.2 TCe engine can suffer from camshaft position sensor failures caused by damaged wiring/connectors or heat/moisture. This can lead to starting problems, stalling, and misfiring. It is a known issue specific to this engine.
What to check. At viewing, read the OBD fault codes for camshaft sensor errors (e.g., P0340, P0345). Inspect the camshaft sensor wiring and connector for damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Ask about any history of stalling or misfiring.
The camshaft position sensor helps the engine computer manage valve timing and ignition. In the 1.2 TCe (H5F) engine, this sensor is known to fail, causing stalling, rough idle, or no-start conditions. It's a specific weakness of this engine, so check if it has been replaced.
What to check. During a viewing, ask for an OBD scan; look for camshaft position sensor codes such as P0340/P0345. Test drive to notice any stalling or unstable idle. Ask service records for sensor replacement.
The H5F 1.2 TCe engine has documented recurring electrical wiring faults and fuel system issues, causing owner complaints. These problems are specific to this engine and can lead to warning lights and performance degradation. Buyers should be aware of this known reliability concern.
What to check. At viewing, scan the car for DTCs related to electrical or fuel system faults. Check the engine wiring harness for any signs of fraying, loose connections, or previous repairs. Ask for service records showing whether any electrical components have been replaced.
The H5F 1.2 TCe engine has a known thermostat failure issue that can cause cooling problems and overheating. Repair costs are moderate and typically occur between 60,000 and 120,000 km. This is a predictable, engine-specific risk that a buyer cannot easily spot without a detailed check.
What to check. During a test drive, watch for slow warm-up or temperature gauge fluctuations. After a longer drive, feel the radiator hoses for temperature difference (one hot, one cold may indicate a stuck thermostat). Consider a diagnostic scan for thermostat-related fault codes (e.g., P0128).
The Renault Megane's EDC dual-clutch gearbox (h5f) has a known tendency to shift jerkily and make knocking noises, especially as it ages. This is a recurring complaint from owners, not a one-off fault. A buyer should test-drive carefully and be prepared for possible transmission refinement issues.
What to check. During a viewing, take the car for an extended test drive that includes stop-and-go traffic and low-speed maneuvers. Feel for harsh or jerky gear changes and listen for knocking noises. Have a transmission specialist perform a diagnostic scan for clutch or mechatronic fault codes.
The EDC dual-clutch gearbox in the Megane can produce harsh gear shifts. This may indicate clutch wear and is not something a standard inspection can detect; it requires a test drive.
What to check. During a viewing, take the car for a test drive in stop-and-go traffic and note any abrupt jolts during gear changes. Check the transmission service history for fluid changes.
h5f turbo oil leak causes oil loss and performance drop
Found with a diagnostic scan
This engine has a known tendency for the turbo oil seal to leak. Over time the engine loses oil and feels less powerful. If left unaddressed, it can damage the turbocharger.
What to check. Check for oil stains or wetness around the turbo area and oil lines; inspect oil level history; listen for turbo whine or look for blue smoke from exhaust.
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.
