56 sourced reports, with what to check before you buy. Each one links to the page it was reported on.
Costly or dangerous
1.3 TCe (H5H) excessive oil consumption in early models
Found by looking
Early 1.3 TCe (H5H) engines can burn oil, especially if driven hard before warming up or due to carbon-sticking piston rings. This can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
What to check. Check oil level and condition; look for blue exhaust smoke on startup and acceleration. Ask for oil consumption history or proof of recent oil changes.
Aluminum block susceptibility to catastrophic failure
Found with a diagnostic scan
The aluminum block of the H5Ht 1.3 TCe engine is highly susceptible to catastrophic failure if overheating or neglecting oil levels occurs. This can result in a total engine write-off.
What to check. Regularly check oil levels and coolant temperature. Monitor for overheating signs, unusual noises, or warning lights. Address any overheating or oil-related issues immediately to prevent block failure.
Dealers have allegedly concealed timing chain failures by replacing chains under warranty without disclosing the defect. This practice misleads buyers and risks repeated failures if substandard components are reused. Foreign markets report dealers dismissing rattling noises as normal, leading to engine damage post-warranty.
What to check. Request the full service history, including invoices for timing chain replacements. Ask if the failure was attributed to manufacturing defects or normal wear. Check for recurring complaints about rattling noises in the timing chain area.
Exhaust Gas System Failures in Falke HT (Hermetic) and Falke BT (Chimney) Combis
Chronic defects in the exhaust system, including fan failure, electronic card issues, or improper installation of exhaust air ducts in hermetic models, and baca-related problems in chimney models.
What to check. For Falke HT: Inspect the fan, electronic control card, and exhaust air duct installation. For Falke BT: Check baca for proper draft, blockages, and baca sensor functionality.
The text explicitly states that **faulty fuel injectors** lead to **unburned fuel in exhaust gases**, causing **blue/white smoke**, **DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) clogging**, and **fuel system corrosion**. This is a **chronic issue** in turbocharged Renault engines like the **H5H 1.3 TCe**.
What to check. Listen for **rough idling or misfires**. Check for **blue/white exhaust smoke** (indicative of unburned fuel or oil burning). Inspect injectors for **leaks, carbon buildup, or physical damage**. Verify if the **DPF system is clogged** (common in turbocharged engines).
Fuel pump seal failure causes oil dilution on h5h engine
Found with a diagnostic scan
The high-pressure fuel pump seals can deteriorate, letting fuel leak into the engine oil. This dilutes the oil and reduces its ability to protect the engine, potentially causing serious damage over time. This is a specific issue to watch for on the h5h engine.
What to check. At the viewing, check the oil dipstick for a fuel smell or rising oil level. If possible, scan for diagnostic trouble code P0087 (fuel pressure) which may indicate fuel pump issues. Ask for service records related to the fuel pump.
The high-pressure fuel pump's internal seals can fail on the 1.3 TCe (h5h) engine. This allows diesel fuel to leak into the engine oil, diluting it and potentially causing severe engine damage. This is a known chronic issue that is not easily detected by a standard pre-purchase inspection.
What to check. Check oil level and dipstick for fuel smell or thinning. Look for DTC P0087 (fuel pressure too low) in the ECU. Verify service history for fuel pump replacement or recall.
The 1.3 TCe engine uses a plastic thermostat housing that can crack after repeated high-temperature driving, especially at sustained high speeds. This causes coolant to leak and can lead to engine overheating and serious damage if not fixed promptly.
What to check. At viewing, check the coolant level and condition, look for dried coolant residue or stains around the thermostat housing and radiator hoses, and during a test drive monitor the temperature gauge for any spikes. If there is a coolant smell or visible leaks, this likely indicates a failing thermostat housing. Also verify service history for any thermostat housing replacement.
H5H 1.3 TCe EGR valve failure damages turbo and DPF
Found with a diagnostic scan
The EGR valve recirculates exhaust gas to cut emissions. On this engine, it tends to fail, causing black smoke, poor fuel economy, and can lead to costly damage to the turbocharger and diesel particulate filter. This is a serious, expensive repair.
What to check. During the test drive, watch for black smoke on acceleration, rough idle, or a fuel smell. Use an OBD scanner to check for EGR-related fault codes such as P0401, P0405, or P0409. Inspect the EGR valve and pipe for heavy carbon buildup if accessible.
The H5H 1.3 TCe engine is prone to premature catalytic converter failure, especially with poor fuel quality, heavy city driving, and thermal stress. This can trigger the P0420 code and requires an expensive replacement.
What to check. Check for P0420 code on a diagnostic scan. Ask about fuel quality and driving history. Inspect underbody for catalytic converter rattling or damage.
This engine has an aluminum block with an open cooling jacket, which can cause piston gaps to widen with mileage. This leads to increased oil consumption in some vehicles, a costly issue not easily detected in a standard inspection.
What to check. At viewing, check oil level and condition, look for blue smoke from exhaust, and ask the owner about oil consumption and service history.
The 1.3 TCe (H5H) engine has a high-pressure fuel pump whose lifter/roller wears over time, especially with delayed oil changes or wrong oil. This lowers fuel pressure and causes warning lights, power loss, and potential stalling. It is a specific, expensive failure that a standard inspection does not catch.
What to check. At viewing, check the service history for oil changes using the correct RN17 specification. Take a test drive to feel for hesitation or power loss. Have a diagnostic scan performed for DTC P0087 and measure the high-pressure fuel pump output.
This engine uses oil injectors to cool the pistons. Using the wrong oil viscosity (e.g., too thin) can cause these injectors to fail, leading to overheating and severe engine damage. Check service records to confirm the correct 0W40 or 5W40 oil has been used.
What to check. Ask about oil change history and verify the oil specification used. Look for signs of overheating such as discolored coolant or a replaced cylinder head. If possible, check the oil filler cap for the required viscosity label.
The 1.3 TCe engine (engine code H5H) in the Dacia Duster can develop a fuel pressure problem due to a worn high-pressure fuel pump, a faulty rail pressure sensor, or a clogged fuel filter. This leads to power loss and poor drivability. It's a known issue specific to this engine, not obvious in a standard inspection.
What to check. Check for DTC P0087 (fuel rail pressure too low) on a scan tool during viewing. Ask for service history of fuel filter changes. Listen for unusual high-pressure pump noise at cold start. A fuel pressure test at idle and under load may reveal pump wear.
Direct injection engines like the H5H 1.3 TCe can build up carbon on intake valves, causing rough idle and potentially requiring cylinder head removal for cleaning if neglected. Regular cleaning with additives can prevent severe damage.
What to check. Ask if intake valve cleaning has been performed and check service history. Listen for rough idle at cold start. A borescope inspection can reveal carbon buildup.
Chronic failure of the safety thermostat triggering overheating protection, often due to prolonged dry operation or insufficient water pressure.
What to check. Check for proper water pressure and ensure the safety thermostat is functioning correctly. Look for signs of overheating or dry combustion.
Piston failure due to design stress and fuel quality
Found with a diagnostic scan
The 1.4 TSI engine, particularly pre-2012 models, suffers from piston failure due to weak piston design and cumulative stress factors. Poor fuel quality, clogged injectors, and engine knock further exacerbate the issue, leading to catastrophic engine failure.
What to check. Check for signs of oil consumption, unusual knocking noises, or excessive smoke from the exhaust. Verify service history for fuel quality (premium 97-99 RON recommended) and injector maintenance. Inspect for oil leaks or carbon buildup, which may indicate pre-existing stress on the pistons.
Plastic thermostat housing single-point failure on H5H/M282
Found with a diagnostic scan
The H5H/M282 engine uses a plastic thermostat housing that combines the thermostat, sensor and bypass valve. If it cracks or fails, coolant can leak or the engine can overheat or run too cold, and the whole assembly must be replaced. This is a known failure on this specific engine, not a general car issue.
What to check. At viewing, check coolant level and look for dried coolant residue or stains around the thermostat housing. If possible, pressure-test the cooling system and ask for proof the housing has already been replaced.
Owners report dealers refusing to honor claims for timing chain failures after warranty expiration, despite persistent rattling noises. This forces owners to pay for expensive repairs (e.g., NOK 20,000+) out-of-pocket, risking catastrophic engine damage if ignored.
What to check. Confirm the remaining warranty coverage for the timing chain system. Ask if the dealer has a history of dismissing rattling noises as normal wear. Check for signs of prior chain stretch (e.g., oil leaks, uneven sprocket wear).
The 1.3 TCe H5H engine is reported to consume oil progressively from early miles, potentially due to improper cylinder wall or piston ring assembly. This can lead to expensive engine failure if not monitored. A standard pre-purchase inspection may not detect this issue without measuring oil consumption over time, making it a hidden risk.
What to check. During viewing, check oil level and condition, look for blue smoke from exhaust on startup or acceleration, and inspect the tailpipe for oily soot. If possible, review service history for oil consumption complaints or top-up intervals. Consider a compression or leak-down test for a thorough check.
The plastic thermostat housing on this engine can crack from heat cycling, causing coolant leaks. This can lead to overheating and expensive engine damage if not fixed promptly. It's a known issue specific to this engine, so ask for proof of replacement.
What to check. Check for coolant leaks under the engine, low coolant level, white exhaust smoke, and watch the temperature gauge on a test drive. Ask for service records showing thermostat housing replacement.
Timing chain failure risk due to improper parking and oil pressure delay
Found with a diagnostic scan
The 1.4 TSI lacks a ratchet mechanism on the timing chain tensioner, increasing the risk of timing chain slippage when the car is left in gear and rolls backward. This can misalign the timing, causing catastrophic valve-to-piston contact. Additionally, incomplete oil drain during oil changes can delay oil pressure buildup, further risking chain tensioner failure.
What to check. Verify the car is never left in gear when parked, especially on slopes or uneven surfaces. Check for signs of oil leaks or unusual engine noises during startup. Review service records for proper oil change procedures (avoid draining oil for extended periods).
The timing chain in this engine can stretch at high mileage, especially around 220,000 km. If not replaced, it can cause serious engine damage. This is a known issue specific to this engine, not something a standard inspection would catch without special checks.
What to check. Listen for rattling noise on cold start, especially at high mileage. Check service history for timing chain replacement. A diagnostic scan for timing correlation codes (e.g., P0011/P0016) may indicate stretch.
The turbocharger pipes on this engine can come loose due to weak clamps, causing sudden power loss and potential turbo damage. This is a known defect present since 2017.
What to check. Check the turbocharger pipe clamps for tightness and look for oil residue or soot around connections. Also check if the vehicle has had any recall or routine fix.
The 1.3 TCe engine's variable-displacement oil pump can fail without clear warning, sometimes no oil pressure light until it's too late. This can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed promptly. It is a known weakness specific to this engine code.
What to check. During a viewing, ask about oil pressure warning light history and recent oil changes. Have a mechanic check live oil pressure at idle and under revs, and listen for unusual engine noises. No DTCs may be present until failure.
h5h EDC dual-clutch overheating and shift quality failure
Noticed on a test drive
The dual-clutch gearbox and its mechatronic unit in the 1.3 petrol Megane can overheat in stop-and-go traffic. If the gearbox oil and software aren't maintained on schedule, you may feel juddering on pull-away, jerky low-speed shifts, and a delay when shifting from reverse to drive. This can eventually trigger a transmission warning and may need expensive repairs.
What to check. Check service history for the gearbox oil change and any mechatronic software updates. On a test drive, include repeated stop-and-go maneuvers to feel for clutch judder, hesitant launches, or delayed reverse engagement. Look for any transmission fault codes (e.g., transmission ECU codes) during a diagnostic scan.
The high-pressure fuel pump's internal seals can fail, allowing fuel to mix with engine oil. This indicates the pump is at end of life and can cause severe engine damage if not addressed. This is a specific, costly failure that a standard inspection might miss.
What to check. During the test drive, check the engine oil level and smell the dipstick for a fuel odor; look for a rising oil level or fuel dilution. Also scan for DTC P0087 and inspect the HPFP for leaks.
This engine can suffer severe damage to the engine block and cylinder head if used for towing. The failure appears to be a design limitation rather than normal wear, so a standard inspection may not reveal the risk. Buyers should consider whether the car was used for towing.
What to check. Check whether the car has a tow bar or evidence of towing (electric sockets, service records). Ask the seller about towing history. A compression test and cooling system pressure test may help, but a future failure under towing cannot be detected at viewing.
The high-pressure fuel pump is driven by a camshaft tappet. If this tappet wears, it can damage the new pump even after replacement. The problem is specific to the h5h engine and will recur unless the tappet is replaced together with the pump.
What to check. Scan for DTC P0087. Ask if the HPFP was replaced and whether the camshaft tappet was also replaced. A ticking noise from the pump area or low fuel pressure codes are warning signs.
The 1.3 TCe engine (code h5h) can suffer piston ring sticking caused by carbon buildup, particularly if the engine is often used before reaching normal operating temperature. This leads to increased oil consumption and reduced performance. It is a known chronic issue that could require costly engine repairs.
What to check. At viewing, check oil level and service history for frequent top-ups. Look for blue smoke from the exhaust, especially when cold. Ask if the car makes many short trips. Consider a compression test or borescope inspection to assess ring condition.
The h5h engine can develop timing chain stretch, causing camshaft and crankshaft to lose synchronization and the engine to not start. Replacing the chain is an expensive repair. This is a known issue on this engine.
What to check. Scan for fault codes P0340 and P0016, listen for a rattling noise on cold start, and ask whether the timing chain has been replaced.
The 1.3 TCe (h5h) engine has a chronic defect where turbocharger pipes are poorly fastened. The clamps fail, causing sudden pipe detachment and loss of power. This is a known issue since 2017 and remains unfixed.
What to check. Inspect turbo pipe clamps for signs of movement, corrosion, or oil leakage. Take a test drive to listen for hissing or hesitation under acceleration. If possible, have a mechanic check the clamping force and replace with upgraded clamps if any doubt.
The 1.3 TCe (H5Ht) engine's aluminum block can warp over time, especially after 150,000 km, allowing oil to pass into the combustion chamber. This causes gradual oil consumption, which if not monitored can lead to engine damage. It's a mileage-related design issue, not visible in a routine inspection.
What to check. Check oil level and look for blue smoke from exhaust. Ask about oil consumption history. A compression or leak-down test may reveal ring/cylinder wear, but it's not always conclusive.
The 1.3 TCe is a direct-injection engine, and carbon deposits can form on intake valves over time. This can cause rough idle, hesitation, and reduced power. Cleaning requires specialised service, so it's a cost to consider.
What to check. During a test drive, listen for rough idle or hesitation. Check service records for intake valve cleaning. If possible, request a borescope inspection of the intake ports.
Some 1.3 TCe H5Ht engines exhibit progressive oil consumption, often linked to assembly defects (e.g., improper cylinder wall/piston/oil ring fit) or aging. While less severe than the 1.2 TCe predecessor, it remains a concern under heavy loads, particularly for small-displacement turbocharged engines.
What to check. Check for oil leaks, blue exhaust smoke (burning oil), or low oil levels between changes. Inspect the engine for signs of oil consumption (e.g., oil spots under the engine or in the exhaust). Verify oil levels after short trips, as turbocharged engines may consume oil more noticeably under load.
The fuel return valve can leak pressure back to the tank after shutdown, making the engine hard to start and causing unstable idle. This is a known issue on this specific engine and not something a standard inspection would catch.
What to check. Check for hard starting after the car has sat overnight. Listen for rough idle. A fuel pressure gauge test can reveal the leak.
Chronic issue where the gas blockage prevents ignition and operation, requiring servicing to resolve.
What to check. Check for proper gas supply and ensure no blockages exist in the gas line or burner assembly. Verify the combustion chamber and gas valve functionality.
This engine uses direct injection without port injection, so fuel never washes the intake valves. Over time carbon deposits build up, causing rough idle, power loss, and sometimes misfires. Cleaning requires walnut blasting or chemical treatment, which is not part of a routine inspection.
What to check. At viewing, ask when the intake valves were last cleaned. If a borescope is available, inspect the intake ports. Check for cold-start roughness or hesitation. Diagnostic trouble codes may include P0300 (random misfire) or P0171 (lean mixture).
The oxygen sensor in this engine sits in very hot exhaust gas and wears out over time. When it fails it gives wrong air-fuel ratio readings, so the engine runs poorly and uses more fuel. This is a known chronic problem for the H5H 1.3 TCe.
What to check. At viewing, scan the ECU for O2 sensor related DTCs (e.g., P0130, P0133). Also check short/long fuel trims; if they are far from zero when warm, the sensor may be aging. A live data test can show slowly switching or stuck O2 voltage.
The 1.3 TCe (H5H) engine has a known tendency for spark plugs and ignition coils to fail prematurely, often much earlier than expected. This can cause misfires, rough idle, and the check engine light. Replacing coils and plugs is a recurring cost that a buyer should factor in.
What to check. Check service history for spark plug/coil replacement intervals. Test drive and feel for misfires during acceleration. Scan fault codes for P0300 or P0301-P0304 cylinder misfires. Visually inspect coils for cracks or replacement signs.
The H5H engine has reported cases of the turbine pipe (turbocharger pipe) failing, which can cause a sudden loss of power or traction. This is a known issue that may occur with age and mileage, and replacing the pipe can be expensive.
What to check. Inspect turbo pipes for cracks, oil leaks, or loose connections. Test drive under hard acceleration for any loss of power. Check for boost pressure fault codes (e.g., P0234, P0299).
Early 2018-2019 1.3 TCe engines (H5H) have been reported to consume more oil than normal. This can lead to engine wear and costly repairs if not monitored.
What to check. At viewing, check the oil level on the dipstick and look for any signs of blue smoke from the exhaust. Ask about oil consumption and service records, especially for early 2018-2019 production.
This engine is prone to carbon deposits on intake valves, especially with city driving. Over time this causes rough idle and loss of power. Standard inspections won't detect it without a borescope.
What to check. Ask for a borescope inspection of intake ports, or check service history for intake cleaning. Look for rough idle on cold start and check for misfire fault codes.
The M282 engine has a known chronic thermostat housing leak that can cause coolant loss and overheating. This issue is predictable based on engine code and usually requires replacement of the housing, an expensive repair. It may not be visible during a standard inspection until the leak becomes active.
What to check. At viewing, check the thermostat housing area for coolant residue, stains, or fresh drips. Verify coolant level and look for signs of overheating in history. A pressure test can reveal slow leaks not visible on a cold engine.
Early 2018-2019 H5H engines may burn oil due to carbon-stuck piston rings, especially if driven hard before warming up. This can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not monitored. It is a known issue specific to this engine code, not a generic risk.
What to check. Check engine oil level and condition; look for blue smoke from exhaust on startup or acceleration. Ask if the car has had any oil consumption complaints or top-ups between services.
Premature spark plug and coil failure in H5Ht 1.3 TCe
Found with a diagnostic scan
The 1.3 TCe (H5Ht) engine is known to wear out spark plugs and ignition coils sooner than typical engines. This causes misfires, rough idle, and reduced performance, with replacement costs adding up. It's a specific weakness of this engine that a buyer should factor in.
What to check. Check maintenance records for spark plug and coil replacement. During test drive, notice any misfires or hesitation. If possible, scan for misfire DTCs (e.g., P0300-P0304) and inspect coil condition visually.
Rapid wear of spark plugs and ignition coils in h5h engine
Found with a diagnostic scan
Owners report that spark plugs and ignition coils wear out faster than normal on this engine. This can cause misfires, rough running, and extra repair costs that a buyer would not expect.
What to check. Ask for service history showing spark plug and coil replacement. During a test drive, feel for misfires or hesitation. If plugs are due, plan to replace them soon.
Sprocket wear and premature failure (timing chain system)
Found with a diagnostic scan
The timing chain sprockets (camshaft and crankshaft) wear out prematurely due to the stretched chain. The crankshaft sprocket, in particular, is double-tracked and rotates at double the speed of camshaft sprockets, accelerating wear. Replacing only the chain without the sprockets risks repeated failure.
What to check. Verify if the full timing chain kit (chain, tensioners, slide rails, and **all sprockets**) was replaced during service. Ask for the service invoice to confirm. Check for uneven wear on the camshaft or crankshaft sprocket teeth.
Timing chain tensioner design flaw without ratchet mechanism
Found with a diagnostic scan
The 1.4 TSI timing chain tensioner lacks a ratchet mechanism to maintain tension when oil pressure is lost, unlike the 2.0 TSI which has a flawed ratchet mechanism that can fail catastrophically. This design flaw increases the risk of timing chain slippage and subsequent engine damage.
What to check. Check for any history of timing chain issues or engine misfires. Inspect for signs of oil leaks or unusual noises from the timing chain area. Compare with the 2.0 TSI’s known ratchet mechanism failure history for context.
The 1.3 TCe turbocharger's wastegate linkage rod can develop play over time, causing a metallic rattle and, if severe, boost leaks. This is a known issue specific to this engine code and can lead to reduced performance or turbo damage if left unattended.
What to check. During a test drive, listen for a metallic rattle from the turbocharger area, especially during boost or when revving. Also check for fault codes related to turbocharger position or boost pressure (e.g., P0243, P0244).
The h5h engine (1.3 TCe) runs hot, which over time damages the fuel rail pressure sensor and its wiring. This can cause the engine warning light to come on with a false low fuel pressure error code, even though the fuel system works fine. Repair usually means replacing the sensor or fixing the harness.
What to check. At viewing, ask about past P0087 fault codes and inspect the fuel rail wiring connector for heat damage or corrosion. Consider a fuel pressure test while the engine is hot; if pressure is normal but P0087 appeared, the wiring/sensor is likely the culprit.
The fuel rail pressure sensor in the h5h engine can develop internal resistance changes over time. Even when actual fuel pressure is normal, the sensor sends wrong signals to the ECU, causing warning lights and drivability problems. This is a known age-related failure not easily spotted by a standard inspection.
What to check. At viewing, use an OBD scanner to check for fuel pressure faults (e.g., P0087); if possible, observe fuel pressure at idle and under load. Also inspect the sensor connector for corrosion or damage.
Carbon buildup on intake valves/ports (direct injection-specific)
Shown by the service history
Direct-injected engines like the 1.3 TCe H5Ht lack the air-fuel mixture cleaning effect of port injection, leading to carbon deposits on intake valves and ports. While rare to cause severe performance issues, it can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency over time.
What to check. Check for black carbon deposits on intake valves and ports during a visual inspection of the engine bay or during a valve cover removal. Listen for rough idling or reduced power, which may indicate restricted airflow due to carbon buildup.
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.