2018-2024 · 1.3 TCe 130/150 HP petrol (Renault-Daimler H5Ht engine)
Budget SUV offering exceptional value for money, popular with families and first-time SUV buyers. The 1.3 TCe engine is a Renault-Mercedes co-development, replacing the older 1.2 TCe and generally more reliable. Main concerns are electrical gremlins (particularly early 2018-2019 models), MediaNav infotainment failures, timing chain stretch if service intervals are neglected, and carbon buildup from direct injection. EDC dual-clutch automatic is less reliable than the manual. Later models from 2022 onwards have fewer electrical issues. Very affordable to maintain but parts quality reflects the budget price point.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
€XXX - €XXX/year
15,000 km/year
Fixed costs
€XXX-XXX
Risk buffer
€XXX-XXX
What Can Break
bars = likelihood
Electrical problems and sensor failures€60 - €850
Dashboard warning lights, infotainment glitches, blown fuses, and sporadic sensor faults · more· less
Electrical niggles are commonly reported, especially on 2018-2019 models. Symptoms include random warning lights, dashboard glitches, lighting faults, and blown fuses. Many issues require dealer intervention. AdBlue sensor failures on diesel models can trigger warnings even when fluid levels are fine. Oxygen sensor replacement averages €205, while NOx sensor/AdBlue injector issues cost €350-850. Most electrical problems are resolved with diagnostic scans and simple fixes like replacing fuses or sensors, typically at the lower end of repair costs. Later models from 2020 onwards have fewer issues.
MediaNav infotainment system failure€100 - €400
Screen goes blank, freezes on logo, touchscreen becomes unresponsive · more· less
The MediaNav infotainment system experiences frequent failures including boot loop issues (stuck on LG logo), blank screens, and unresponsive touchscreens. The bottom row of buttons often becomes unusable, making settings inaccessible. Rebooting or disconnecting the battery for 15 minutes rarely fixes the problem. The unit is manufactured by LG and shared with Renault, Nissan, Kia, and Opel. Third-party repair services offer touchscreen replacement for around €100, while dealer replacements can exceed €300-400. This is a well-documented issue across Dacia's lineup.
Timing chain tensioner wear€800 - €1,800
Cold start rattle for 1-30 seconds, chain stretches over time · more· less
The 1.3 TCe uses a timing chain (not belt) that Renault claims lasts the engine's lifetime. In reality, the chain can stretch around 140,000-220,000 km if oil changes are neglected or low-quality oil is used. The tensioner has a release valve that weakens over time, allowing oil pressure to bleed off overnight. This causes a distinctive rattle on cold start lasting 1-30 seconds. If the rattle persists beyond a few seconds, the chain, guides, tensioner, and sprockets all need replacing. Ignoring this can lead to chain skip and catastrophic valve/piston contact. Replacement cost is €800-1,800 depending on labor rates. Regular oil changes every 12,000-15,000 km with C3 low-ash oil significantly reduces risk.
EDC dual-clutch gearbox issues (if equipped)€350 - €1,200
Jerky shifts, hesitation, delay pulling away, clunking · more· less
If equipped with EDC (dual-clutch automatic), expect reliability issues. Common symptoms include jerky gear changes, hesitation at city speeds, delay pulling away, and rough shifts. Problems stem from clutch wear, software faults, or mechatronic unit issues. Some owners report a slight pause or surge from rest due to clutch engagement at low RPM. Abrupt shift changes are particularly common in city driving. Repairs range from €350 for software reprogramming to €1,200 for clutch pack replacement. Following Renault's fluid change intervals and avoiding riding the clutch on inclines helps. Manual gearbox models are significantly more reliable and recommended over EDC.
Carbon buildup on intake valves (direct injection)€300 - €600
Rough idle, cold-start misfires, reduced performance after 60,000+ km · more· less
The 1.3 TCe uses direct fuel injection (GDI), which causes carbon buildup on intake valves since fuel doesn't wash over them. This is inherent to all GDI engines. Symptoms include rough idle, cold-start misfires, and reduced performance, typically appearing after 60,000-100,000 km. Professional walnut blasting costs €300-600 for a 4-cylinder engine. Prevention: use high-detergent premium fuel, avoid short trips, perform periodic high-RPM runs (Italian tune-up), use C3 low-ash engine oil, and consider an oil catch can. Walnut blasting every 60,000 miles is recommended maintenance for direct injection engines.
Shock absorber leaks€250 - €700
Oil leaking from dampers, typically between 40,000-90,000 km · more· less
Shock absorber failures are relatively common on Dusters, with owners reporting oil leaks affecting handling during cornering and braking. Front shocks often leak first, though all four can fail. Issues have been reported at 15,000 km, 42,000 km, and 90,000 km. Shocks are covered by warranty only up to 30,000 km and classified as wear items by Renault. Expected service life is 120,000-150,000 km. Dealer replacement of a pair costs €350-700, while aftermarket Monroe shocks cost around €250-400 per pair installed at independent shops. Regular inspection is recommended, especially if you notice changes in ride quality.
Key jams in start position, starter motor remains engaged, fire risk · more· less
A recall was issued in January 2021 for Dusters built between September 2017 and October 2018. The ignition switch may not disengage correctly after starting, causing the key to jam in the start position. This keeps the starter motor engaged, which can burn out the starter and, in rare circumstances, cause a thermal incident (fire). The fix is replacement of the ignition switch. If you're looking at a 2017-2018 Duster, contact a Dacia dealer with the VIN to verify whether this recall has been completed. Some owners experienced repeated starter motor failures before the recall was issued.
Air conditioning system failure€130 - €500
Blowing hot air, refrigerant leaks, compressor failure · more· less
Common AC issues include the system blowing hot air due to low refrigerant or compressor failure. A dirty AC radiator (sits next to the main radiator) restricts airflow and prevents refrigerant cooling. The compressor clutch can fail, preventing the compressor from spinning. Refrigerant leaks are common when the AC isn't used regularly. Aircon regas (refrigerant refill) averages €130 and takes 45 minutes. Heater control panel replacement costs around €390 from Renault. Manufacturers recommend regassing every two years. Exercise the AC regularly (even in winter, every couple of weeks) to keep compressor seals lubricated and prevent refrigerant loss.
Good value but expect electrical niggles
The Duster Mk2 offers exceptional value in the small SUV segment, ranking 4th out of 23 cars for reliability in its class and Dacia as a brand ranking 6th out of 31 manufacturers. Most issues are minor and inexpensive compared to rivals. Focus on 2020+ models to avoid early electrical gremlins, and choose manual over EDC automatic. The 1.3 TCe engine is reliable when maintained properly, with regular oil changes being critical to avoid timing chain issues.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential. Verify oil changes at 12,000-15,000 km intervals maximum.
Tires
Standard size 215/65 R16. Check tread depth, age (date codes), and uneven wear patterns.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for timing chain rattle in first 30 seconds.
Body condition
Check for rust, accident damage, paint mismatch. No parking sensors on base models - inspect bumpers.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including varied speeds. EDC gearbox needs 15+ minutes to warm up.
Specific for this vehicle
Cold start timing chain rattle test
Engine must be completely cold (parked overnight). Start and listen for rattle in first 30 seconds. Brief rattle is acceptable; prolonged rattle indicates chain stretch.
Test all electrical systems thoroughly
Check all dashboard lights, infotainment system, climate control, window switches, central locking. Look for any warning lights. Early 2018-2019 models most prone to issues.
MediaNav infotainment system test
Press all touchscreen areas, especially the bottom row. Test screen brightness, radio, Bluetooth. Look for freezing, blank screens, or boot loops.
EDC gearbox operation (if equipped)
Drive for 15+ minutes until gearbox is warm. Feel for jerky shifts, hesitation from rest, clunking. Slight pause at takeoff is normal for EDC. Try manual mode.
Inspect shock absorbers for oil leaks
Check all four shock absorbers for oil residue or wetness. Common failure point. Look underneath for oil drips.
Verify ignition switch recall completed (2017-2018)
For September 2017 to October 2018 production, contact Dacia dealer with VIN to confirm ignition switch recall was completed.
Check for curtain airbag recalls
Two separate recalls: non-deployment issue (July 2022 production) and excessive pressure issue (various dates). Verify with VIN.
Air conditioning test
Run AC for 10+ minutes. Should blow cold consistently. Check cabin filter condition and AC radiator for dirt buildup.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Ignition switch jamming (Sept 2017 - Oct 2018)Verify completed
Left curtain airbag non-deployment (July 2022)Verify completed
Left curtain airbag excessive pressure (May 2024)Verify completed
R107 connector not secured properlyCheck for airbag/brake issues
Contact a Dacia dealer with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The ignition switch recall is particularly important for 2017-2018 models. Two separate curtain airbag recalls affect different production dates - both must be verified.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty3 years / 60,000 miles (April 2024+)
Dacia ZEN extended warranty+1 year per service (max 7 years/75,000 miles)
Geographic coverageNetherlands + EU countries
Most 2018-2020 Dusters are outside the original 3-year warranty. The Dacia ZEN program extends warranty by 1 year/18,000 miles every time you service at a Dacia dealer, up to 7 years or 75,000 miles total. Extended warranty can be purchased while within the original 3-year period. Warranty is valid across European countries including Netherlands.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.