Renault Clio Mk1 (1991 - 1998)

Last updated 31 October 2016

Buying Guide

Good

Very, very cheap now.

Bad

Average performance in NCAP crash tests.

Watch out for kerbing damage, especially on power-steered Clios.

Some automatics have been prone to surging - cured by replacing faulty inlet manifold gaskets.

June 2001 Renault was rated by Motor Warranty Direct as Britain's joint 4th worst out of 22 marques for used car warranty claims.

18th from bottom for reliabilty in Auto Express 2002 reader survey of 100 models.

Renault had above average warranty repair costs in 2003 Warranty Direct Reliability index (index 114.24 v/s lowest 31.93) www.reliabilityindex.co.uk

Watch

4-speed autobox cooling system (oil cooler within the water radiator) can cause problems. High incidence of automatic transmission failures.

Kerbing damage to front suspension.

1998: (June '97-Nov '97 build): possibility of inadvertent deployment of airbags.

2000: may lose brake servo assistance.

On 1,149cc D7F engines it is essential to change the timing belt, tensioners and the water pump every 3 years of 36,000 miles (whichever comes first). Look for rust in rear arches where they rust from inside out.

Look for rust in rear arches where they rust from inside out.

Recalls

27-09-2001: News from The Backroom of a recall of R reg Clio because the throttle cable can snap.

2-12-2002: 1,861 Clio and Twingo recalled because of risk of loss of brake servo assistance due to incorrect positioning of air pressure sensor in inlet manifold. Position to be checked and corrected where necessary.