In recent years, Renault has moved up the reliability rankings and won back the confidence of UK motorists. However, there are still many who ask; are Renault cars reliable enough for long-term use in the UK? Which are the most reliable cars from Renault? And how long do they really last?
If you’ve been wondering the same, this blog post is for you. In this guide, we answer the 8 most frequently asked questions about Renault reliability. From common issues to the best models, we’ve got it all covered.
So, let’s dive in!
1. Are Renault Cars Reliable in the UK in 2025?
According to the 2025 Honest John reliability survey, Renault ranked 24th out of 33 manufacturers with a reliability rating of 88.30%. In the same survey, Renault ranked 25th out of 33 manufacturers with an owner satisfaction rating of 79.29%. Both ratings show that Renault cars are not the best when it comes to reliability.
That being said, Renault has made strong improvements regarding when it comes to reliability. Many newer models use simple and refined technology, which has reduced a lot of problems. Also, Renault now shares parts and platforms with Nissan. This makes repairs quicker and cheaper.
Furthermore, Renault has a wide dealer network across the UK. This means vehicle servicing and recall fixes happen quickly and without much hassle. While Renault may not lead every reliability chart, many drivers trust the brand. Its simple design and solid after-sales support build decent reliability in 2025.
2. Are Renault’s Electric Cars Reliable?
Yes, Renault’s electric models, particularly the Megane E with strong reliability ratings of 95.5%, have built a strong reputation. Moreover, EVs have far fewer moving parts compared to petrol or diesel cars. This means they often have fewer mechanical problems and lower chances of breakdowns.
Renault also offers strong battery warranties, often lasting eight years or more. It is giving drivers extra peace of mind. Furthermore, EV maintenance is cheaper—no oil changes or complex exhaust parts to worry about.
All in all, if you’re looking for a dependable electric car, Renault’s offerings are certainly worth considering.
3. What Common Problems Do Renault Cars Have?
There are quite a few issues that are common with Renault cars. You will find most Renault cars suffering from electrical faults like warning lights or sensor malfunctions. Similarly, diesel models from Renault can have DPF problems if only used for short city trips.
As far as the older Renaults are concerned, they may get suspension wear, which can cause bumpy rides or tyre issues. Similarly, in manual models, gearbox or clutch problems are quite common after heavy use. You might notice hard gear shifts or clutch slipping in older cars.
4. Which are the Least Reliable Renault Models?
Here are some Renault models that you need to avoid when buying a second-hand car:
i. Renault Arkana: Renault Arkana’s got a bit of a shaky reputation for reliability. It’s not the worst, but owners report problems often. Things like electrical glitches or interior bits can act up. However, repairs are usually covered, which is nice, but it’s still a hassle. If you’re eyeing one, check its history closely.
ii. Renault Modus: Renault Modus has a tough history when it comes to reliability. Many surveys give it low marks on the Reliability Index. Owners often faced issues with electronics or the engine. It’s not a new car, so parts can be hard to find. Be ready for potential fixes if you pick one up.
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5. Which Renault Models are the Most Reliable?
There are a lot of Renault models that have earned a solid reputation for going the distance. If you’re looking to buy a used Renault car, here are a few options worth noting:
i. Renault Captur:
Renault Captur is a compact SUV that’s great for city and family driving. It feels solid and well-built, especially after the 2020 update. In the latest What Car’s survey, it has a 95.9% reliability score. Drivers love how easy it is to park and how smooth it drives. It’s available in petrol, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options.
All the engines are simple which makes them easy and affordable to maintain. It also shares many parts with Nissan, which keeps repair costs low. It’s a modern, practical SUV with good space. It’s not the fastest, but it’s very dependable for everyday use.
ii. Renault Clio:
Renault Clio is still one of the UK’s most popular small cars. You’ll admire its no-fuss, smart design that just works. It’s simple, reliable, and easy on the wallet. The engines are fuel-efficient and low-maintenance, which helps keep running costs down. Its compact size makes it perfect for city driving or tight parking spaces.
In the recent What Car’s survey, it was ranked 19th most dependable small car in the UK. Clio 5 also comes with a 5-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. With fewer things to go wrong, it stays dependable year after year. The Clio is a solid, stress-free choice for everyday use.
iii. Renault Megane:
Renault’s Megane E-Tech stands out as the leading electric car in the UK market. It has a strong reliability rating of 95.5% and is a great choice for for families. Megane E-Tech is built on a new, EV-specific platform shared with the Nissan Ariya, contributing to its solid reliability and safety credentials.
Renault Megane E-Tech electric offers a driving range of up to 280 miles on a single charge. Charging capabilities include rapid DC charging at up to 130kW, allowing an 80% charge in around 40 minutes.
6. How Do Renaults Compare to Rivals Like Peugeot and Toyota?
Renault and Peugeot often compete closely in the UK when it comes to reliability. However, Renault (88.3%) is considered slightly better than Peugeot (78.64%) if you were to believe the the Honest John index. With Toyota at 94.65%, there’s still a big gap in long-term reliability and breakdown rate.
Still, Renault is often cheaper to buy and maintain. It gives good value without sacrificing too much on comfort or features. So, while Toyota wins on reliability, Renault still makes strong financial sense.
7. How long do Renault cars usually last?
With proper care, Renault cars often last between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. Small steps can help extend your Renault’s lifespan even beyond that. For instance, regular servicing and oil changes help keep the engine running smoothly. Similarly, fixing small problems early stops them from turning into bigger, costly repairs.
On the plus side, Renault cars in the UK come with a 5-year or 100,000-mile warranty. This warranty is longer than some rivals and gives real peace of mind. It also includes roadside help and covers most mechanical and electrical problems. That means fewer surprises if something goes wrong with your car.
If you buy a used Renault, you may still get a short-term warranty. Approved dealers often offer added protection or optional extended cover. However, Renault’s warranty support helps avoid big repair bills.
8. How Much Does it Cost to Maintain a Renault Car?
Renault repairs and servicing are usually cheaper than many German car brands. The average annual maintenance cost for a Renault car is around £300 to £550 Basic services like oil changes and checks usually cost between £150 and £200. Brake pad and disc changes often fall between £200 and £300.
However, rare parts for older models can push repair costs. Independent garages that specialise in Renaults can save you 20–30% on labour. They often charge less than main dealers but still know the brand well. So, shop around to keep costs low and your car running smoothly.
Final Thoughts: Are Renault Cars Reliable?
Yes, Renault has improved reliability with models like the Clio and Captur. These cars offer solid durability and low running costs for daily use. While some issues can occur, regular servicing helps prevent major problems. Choosing models from 2020 onwards reduces risks and improves reliability.
However, reliability depends on proper care and individual driving habits. Before buying, always test-drive the car, check the service history, and stick to 2020+ models. This way, you’ll avoid common issues.
Looking for a reliable ride? Sell your old car the easy way with Exchange My Car and switch to a dependable one today. Want to explore reliability of other car makes in the UK? Check out our blog for more expert insights and up-to-date guides.
The post Are Renault Cars Reliable in 2025? 8 FAQs Answered! first appeared on Car Blog | Selling, Buying and Loving Cars.