Engines Covered

• 1.5 L K9K I4 dCi
• 1.6 L K4M I4
• 1.2 L D4F/D4FT I4
• 2.0 L M4R/F4R I4.

Get the same comprehensive level of information that your Renault local dealer mechanics and technicians have in a simple PDF format. It’s simple and straightforward with only the manufacturer’s authorized service and repair procedures which you can follow and do by yourself.

Sample Pages: 2012-2019 Renault Clio IV Repair Manual

2012-2019 Renault Clio IV: Complete Buyer’s Guide

Overview

The Renault Clio IV (fourth generation) was produced from 2012 to 2019 as a supermini/subcompact hatchback. It was available in 3-door and 5-door body styles, with high-performance Renault Sport (RS) variants also offered.

Design & Features:

• Modern styling with distinctive front LED daytime running lights
• Improved interior quality over previous generation
• Available with R-Link touchscreen infotainity system
• 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating

Body Styles:

• 3-door hatchback
• 5-door hatchback
• Estate/wagon (Clio Sport Tourer)

Technical Specifications

Engine Options

Petrol Engines:

• 0.9 TCe 90 – 0.9L 3-cylinder turbo, 90 hp
• 1.2 16V – 1.2L 4-cylinder, 75 hp
• 1.2 TCe – 1.2L 4-cylinder turbo, 120 hp
• 1.6 RS – 1.6L 4-cylinder turbo, 200 hp (Clio RS)

Diesel Engines:

• 1.5 dCi 75 – 1.5L 4-cylinder, 75 hp
• 1.5 dCi 90 – 1.5L 4-cylinder, 90 hp
• 1.5 dCi 110 – 1.5L 4-cylinder, 110 hp

Transmissions

• 5-speed manual
• 6-speed manual
• 6-speed EDC dual-clutch automatic

Dimensions & Capacity

• Length: 4,062 mm (160 in)
• Width: 1,732 mm (68.2 in)
• Height: 1,448 mm (57 in)
• Wheelbase: 2,589 mm (101.9 in)
• Cargo: 300-1,146 liters (10.6-40.5 cu ft)
• Fuel tank: 45 liters (11.9 gal)

Performance (varies by engine)

• 0-100 km/h: 9.9-14.9 seconds
• Top speed: 160-230 km/h (99-143 mph)
• Fuel economy: 3.2-5.5 L/100km (43-73 mpg)

Top 10 Mechanical & Electrical Issues

1. EDC Dual-Clutch Transmission Failures

Symptoms:

• Jerky gear changes
• Loss of power/acceleration
• Warning lights (gearbox fault)
• Vehicle going into “limp mode”
• Strange noises during shifting

Root Cause: The EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) gearbox mechatronic unit and clutch packs are prone to premature wear, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. Software calibration issues also contribute.

Fix:

• Software update (if early failure)
• Mechatronic unit replacement
• Complete clutch pack replacement
• In severe cases, entire gearbox replacement

Cost: £1,200-£3,500 ($1,500-$4,500 USD)

2. 0.9 TCe Timing Belt Failure

Symptoms:

• Sudden engine failure/no start
• Loud knocking/rattling from engine
• Complete loss of power while driving
• Bent valves (catastrophic)

Root Cause: The 0.9L TCe engine uses a timing belt that can fail prematurely, sometimes before the scheduled replacement interval. This is a common issue on engines built between 2012-2016.

Fix:

• Preventative: Replace timing belt early (every 60,000 km/37,000 miles)
• After failure: Complete engine rebuild or replacement

Cost:

• Preventative belt replacement: £300-£500 ($375-$625)
• Engine rebuild after failure: £2,500-£5,000 ($3,100-$6,250)

3. Turbocharger Failure (TCe Engines)

Symptoms:

• Loss of power
• Blue or black smoke from exhaust
• Whining or whistling noise from engine bay
• Excessive oil consumption
• Check engine light

Root Cause: Oil starvation or contamination due to extended service intervals or faulty PCV system. Carbon buildup in the turbo also contributes to premature wear.

Fix:

• Replace turbocharger
• Check and clean oil feed/return lines
• Replace PCV valve
• Use proper oil specification

Cost: £800-£1,800 ($1,000-$2,250)

4. Injector Failure (1.5 dCi Diesel)

Symptoms:

• Rough idling
• Hard starting, especially when cold
• Black smoke from exhaust
• Poor fuel economy
• Loss of power
• Engine management light

Root Cause: The 1.5 dCi diesel injectors are sensitive to poor fuel quality and can suffer from carbon buildup and internal wear, causing spray pattern deterioration.

Fix:

• Replace faulty injector(s)
• Clean injector seats
• Perform fuel system cleaning
• Software update may be needed

Cost: £200-£400 per injector + labor = £600-£1,200 total ($750-$1,500)

5. EGR Valve Clogging (Diesel Models)

Symptoms:

• Poor acceleration
• Rough idle
• Increased fuel consumption
• Black smoke from exhaust
• Engine warning light
• Limp mode activation

Root Cause: Carbon buildup in the Exhaust Gas Recirculation valve, especially common with short journeys and low-speed driving. Affects diesel engines primarily.

Fix:

• Clean EGR valve
• Replace EGR valve if heavily clogged
• Clean intake manifold
• Use EGR cleaner additives preventatively

Cost:

• Cleaning: £150-£300 ($190-$375)
• Replacement: £400-£700 ($500-$875)

6. DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Issues

Symptoms:

• Warning light on dashboard
• Loss of power
• Increased fuel consumption
• Engine going into limp mode
• Failed emissions test
• Regeneration attempts frequently

Root Cause: Primarily affects diesel models driven predominantly in urban/short distance conditions. The DPF cannot complete regeneration cycles, leading to excessive soot buildup.

Fix:

• Forced regeneration at workshop
• DPF cleaning (off-car)
• DPF replacement if damaged
• Longer highway drives to allow natural regeneration

Cost:

• Forced regeneration: £100-£200 ($125-$250)
• Cleaning: £200-£400 ($250-$500)
• Replacement: £1,000-£2,000 ($1,250-$2,500)

7. Electric Power Steering Failures

Symptoms:

• Heavy steering suddenly
• “Power steering fault” warning
• Intermittent steering assistance loss
• Complete loss of power assistance
• Warning light illuminated

Root Cause: Electronic power steering motor or control module failure. Can be caused by water ingress, electrical connector corrosion, or internal motor wear.

Fix:

• Replace steering column motor assembly
• Replace steering ECU
• Check and repair wiring/connectors
• Software update may resolve some cases

Cost: £600-£1,500 ($750-$1,875)

8. Keyless Entry/Start System Failures

Symptoms:

• Key card not detected
• Unable to start engine despite key being present
• Doors won’t unlock/lock
• “Key card not detected” message
• Steering column locked

Root Cause: Faulty key card battery, damaged key card internal antenna, or faulty door handle sensors. The steering column electronic module can also fail.

Fix:

• Replace key card battery (CR2032)
• Replace key card
• Replace door handle sensor
• Replace steering column ECU

Cost:

• Key battery: £5 ($6)
• New key card: £150-£300 ($190-$375)
• Handle sensor: £100-£200 ($125-$250)
• Column ECU: £400-£800 ($500-$1,000)

9. R-Link Infotainment System Glitches

Symptoms:

• Frozen touchscreen
• System rebooting randomly
• Bluetooth connectivity issues
• Navigation failures
• Black screen on startup
• Slow response times

Root Cause: Software bugs, outdated firmware, or hardware failure in the head unit. The early R-Link systems were particularly problematic.

Fix:

• Software update from dealer
• Factory reset
• Replace head unit if hardware fault
• Clean touchscreen connections

Cost:

• Software update: £50-£150 ($60-$190)
• Head unit replacement: £500-£1,200 ($625-$1,500)

10. Front Suspension Noise/Wear

Symptoms:

• Knocking/clunking from front suspension
• Rattling over bumps
• Uneven tire wear
• Wandering steering
• Poor handling

Root Cause: Premature wear of front suspension components, particularly lower control arm bushings, anti-roll bar links, and shock absorber top mounts.

Fix:

• Replace worn control arm bushings
• Replace anti-roll bar links
• Replace shock absorber top mounts
• Wheel alignment after repairs

Cost: £300-£700 ($375-$875) depending on components needed

Top 5 Competitors

1. Ford Fiesta (2012-2019)

• Strengths: Excellent handling, strong engine range, good build quality
• Weaknesses: Powershift automatic transmission issues
• Key Difference: More engaging to drive, better dynamics

2. Volkswagen Polo (2009-2017 / 2017-2021)

• Strengths: Superior build quality, refined interior, solid reliability
• Weaknesses: Higher purchase price, less exciting to drive
• Key Difference: Premium feel, better residuals

3. Peugeot 208 (2012-2019)

• Strengths: Stylish design, comfortable ride, efficient engines
• Weaknesses: Smaller cargo space, some electrical gremlins
• Key Difference: More stylish interior, similar mechanical base

4. Vauxhall/Opel Corsa (2014-2019)

• Strengths: Practical, affordable, good warranty
• Weaknesses: Plain interior, unremarkable driving experience
• Key Difference: More conservative choice, widely available

5. Mazda2 (2014-2019)

• Strengths: Fun to drive, reliable, excellent build quality
• Weaknesses: Less rear legroom, smaller boot
• Key Difference: Japanese reliability, better long-term ownership

Top 10 Recalls, Advisories & TSB Highlights

1. Airbag Deployment Fault (2013-2014 models)

• Passenger airbag may not deploy correctly
• Recall issued to replace airbag module
• Critical safety issue

2. Fuel Tank Strap Corrosion (2012-2015)

• Fuel tank retaining straps can corrode prematurely
• Risk of fuel tank dropping
• Replacement of straps required

3. Seat Belt Pretensioner (2012-2013)

• Front seat belt pretensioners may not function properly
• Recall to replace pretensioner units
• Safety-critical repair

4. EDC Gearbox Software Update (2013-2016)

• Multiple software updates issued for jerky operation
• Improved shift quality and reliability
• Free update at dealers

5. Power Steering Loss (2012-2014)

• Electric power steering can fail suddenly
• Software update and potential component replacement
• Technical Service Bulletin issued

6. Brake System Vacuum Pump (Diesel – 2013-2015)

• Vacuum pump failure can reduce braking assistance
• Recall to inspect and replace if necessary
• Important safety recall

7. Engine Mount Failure (0.9 TCe – 2012-2016)

• Right-side engine mount can fail prematurely
• Causes excessive vibration
• TSB issued for inspection and replacement

8. DPF Regeneration Issues (Diesel – 2012-2017)

• Software calibration issues preventing proper regeneration
• Multiple software updates released
• Affects all diesel variants

9. Door Lock Mechanism (2012-2015)

• Central locking can fail, trapping occupants
• Recall to replace door lock actuators
• Safety concern in emergencies

10. Cooling Fan Resistor (2012-2014)

• Engine cooling fan resistor can overheat
• Risk of fire in extreme cases
• Recall issued for replacement

Maintenance Schedule

Every 12 Months or 12,000 Miles (20,000 km) – Whichever Comes First

Oil Change Service:

• Engine oil and filter change
• Visual inspection of brakes, tires, lights
• Check all fluid levels
• Reset service indicator

Cost: £100-£180 ($125-$225)

Every 2 Years or 24,000 Miles (40,000 km)

Major Service:

• All items from oil service plus:
• Air filter replacement
• Cabin/pollen filter replacement
• Brake fluid change
• Inspect brake pads/discs
• Check suspension components
• Inspect exhaust system

Cost: £200-£350 ($250-$440)

Every 4-6 Years

Additional Items:

• Coolant replacement (every 4 years or 90,000 miles)
• Spark plugs (petrol engines – every 60,000-100,000 miles)
• Diesel fuel filter (every 24,000 miles)

Cost: £50-£150 per item ($60-$190)

Timing Belt (0.9 TCe and 1.2 engines)

• Interval: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 6 years – CRITICAL
• Replace water pump at same time recommended
• Cost: £400-£650 ($500-$815)

Note: Early replacement recommended for 0.9 TCe due to known failures

EDC Transmission

• Fluid change every 60,000 miles (not officially required but recommended)
• Cost: £200-£300 ($250-$375)

DPF Diesel Models

• Regular long drives (30+ minutes at highway speeds) to aid regeneration
• Use low-ash diesel oil
• Avoid frequent short journeys

10 FAQs for Buyers

1. Should I avoid the EDC automatic transmission?

The EDC dual-clutch has a problematic reputation. If you need an automatic, look for later models (2016+) with updated software, or consider the manual transmission instead. Budget for potential transmission repairs if buying EDC-equipped models.

2. Which engine is most reliable?

The 1.5 dCi 90 diesel and 1.2 16V naturally aspirated petrol are generally the most reliable. Avoid the 0.9 TCe if concerned about timing belt issues. The 1.2 TCe is decent but ensure timing belt service history is complete.

3. Is the Clio IV expensive to maintain?

Service costs are moderate for a European car, but be prepared for potentially expensive repairs (gearbox, turbo, electrical issues). Independent specialists can be significantly cheaper than Renault dealers.

4. What’s the real-world fuel economy?

• 1.5 dCi diesel: 55-65 mpg (4.3-5.1 L/100km)
• 0.9 TCe petrol: 45-52 mpg (5.4-6.3 L/100km)
• 1.2 TCe petrol: 42-48 mpg (5.9-6.7 L/100km)

5. Are parts expensive and readily available?

Parts are moderately priced and widely available in Europe. Some electronic components and gearbox parts can be expensive. Third-party alternatives available for common service items.

6. How does it compare to Japanese rivals in reliability?

Renaults generally lag behind Japanese brands (Honda, Mazda, Toyota) in long-term reliability. The Clio IV has more electronic complexity which can lead to more issues as it ages.

7. What should I check when viewing a used Clio IV?

• Full service history (especially timing belt on TCe engines)
• EDC gearbox operation (smooth shifts, no warning lights)
• Power steering function
• Keyless entry/start working properly
• Check for DPF light on diesels
• Suspension noises
• R-Link system functionality
• Evidence of recalls completed

8. Is the Clio RS worth the premium?

The Clio RS (200 hp) is a genuine hot hatch with excellent performance and handling. However, running costs are higher and some suffer from the same EDC gearbox issues. The manual transmission RS is preferred by enthusiasts.

9. How much should I budget for annual repairs?

Beyond regular servicing, budget £300-£800 annually for unexpected repairs on average mileage examples (50,000-100,000 miles). High-mileage or neglected examples could require more.

10. What’s the best Clio IV specification to buy?

For reliability: 1.5 dCi 90 diesel with manual transmission, Dynamique or higher trim for better equipment.

For economy: 0.9 TCe with manual (if timing belt serviced properly)

For fun: 1.2 TCe 120 manual or Clio RS manual

Avoid if possible: EDC automatic (unless comfortable with potential repair costs), very early 2012-2013 models

Final Buyer Recommendations

✅ Consider Buying If:

• You want a stylish, modern supermini with good equipment levels
• Mainly driving in Europe where parts/service readily available
• You can find one with full service history, especially timing belt records
• You’re comfortable with a manual transmission
• You plan to use an independent Renault specialist for servicing
• You find a later model (2016-2019) with recalls completed
• Budget allows for potential repairs beyond routine maintenance

⚠️ Buy with Caution:

• EDC automatic models – inspect thoroughly and factor in potential gearbox costs
• High-mileage diesel models without DPF maintenance history
• 0.9 TCe engines without confirmed timing belt replacement
• Early 2012-2014 models with multiple known issues
• Examples with incomplete service history
• Cars that have been used primarily for short urban journeys (especially diesels)

❌ Avoid:

• EDC gearbox models showing any transmission warning lights or jerky behavior
• 0.9 TCe engines near timing belt interval without evidence of replacement
• Diesel models with DPF warning lights or regeneration issues
• Examples with power steering faults or history of electrical issues
• Cars with missing service history or evidence of neglect
• Vehicles with outstanding safety recalls not completed

Best Value Recommendation:

2016-2018 Renault Clio IV 1.5 dCi 90 Dynamique Nav 5-door with manual transmission

Why:

• Reliable diesel engine with good economy
• Most updates and software improvements implemented
• Good equipment level including navigation
• Avoids EDC gearbox issues
• Practical 5-door body
• Sweet spot for depreciation vs. reliability

What to Pay (UK Market, approximate):

• £7,000-£10,000 depending on mileage and condition
• Look for examples with 40,000-70,000 miles
• Full service history essential
• All recalls completed

Alternative: Budget Option

2015-2017 Renault Clio IV 1.2 16V Expression/Dynamique manual

• Naturally aspirated engine (no turbo/timing belt concerns)
• Simple, reliable mechanical setup
• Lower insurance group
• £5,000-£8,000 price range
• Adequate performance for daily driving

Performance Option:

2016-2019 Renault Clio RS 200 with Manual Transmission

• Only if you specifically want a hot hatch
• Avoid EDC version
• Budget £12,000-£18,000
• Higher running costs but excellent driving experience

Final Thoughts:

The Renault Clio IV is a stylish and well-equipped supermini that offers good value, especially in the used market. However, it’s not the most reliable choice in its class and requires careful selection and diligent maintenance.

Key to successful ownership:

1. Buy the right engine/transmission combination
2. Verify complete service history
3. Have pre-purchase inspection done
4. Budget for repairs beyond routine maintenance
5. Use specialists familiar with Renault quirks
6. Stay on top of preventative maintenance

If reliability is your top priority, Japanese alternatives (Mazda2, Honda Jazz) or even the VW Polo might be better choices despite higher initial costs. However, for those willing to accept some risk in exchange for French style and lower purchase prices, a well-chosen Clio IV can be a satisfying ownership experience.