Europe's most affordable new car, popular with budget-conscious buyers and first-time owners. The Sandero Stepway is the rugged crossover variant with raised ground clearance. Built on the same platform as the Renault Clio. The 1.0 TCe engine is improved over earlier TCe variants but the turbo wastegate actuator rattle is a widespread issue affecting many 2021-2023 cars - Dacia acknowledges the problem but considers it normal. Main concerns: electrical glitches on early production, MediaNav screen failures, gearbox notchiness, and water leaks through blocked drains. Parts are cheap, dealer network expanding, but build quality is basic.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
€XXX - €XXX/year
15,000 km/year
Fixed costs
€XXX-XXX
Risk buffer
€XXX-XXX
What Can Break
bars = likelihood
Turbo wastegate actuator rattle€500 - €2,500
Metallic rattling between 1,000-2,100 rpm due to wastegate rod clearance · more· less
This is the most common issue affecting the 1.0 TCe engine in 2021-2024 Sandero Stepway models. The wastegate control rod develops excessive play, creating a characteristic metallic rattling sound between 1,000 and 2,100 rpm during acceleration or deceleration. According to Dacia Technical Bulletin 71538, the manufacturer acknowledges this issue but considers the noise normal operation - turbos are no longer replaced under warranty for this complaint on TCe 90 and Eco-G 100 engines. The problem appears on cars as early as 20,000 km. If the actuator completely fails, you'll experience loss of boost pressure and EPC warning lights. Repair options: some specialists can replace just the actuator (€500-700), but if the turbocharger internals are damaged from the rattling, full turbo replacement costs €1,500-2,500. A fix similar to the 1.3 TCe engine was expected after May 2023, involving a spring to hold the rod and upgraded hardware material.
Electrical system glitches / BCM failure€150 - €1,200
Multiple warning lights, intermittent failures, car won't start · more· less
Early production 2021-2022 Sandero Stepway models experienced frequent electrical issues. Multiple owners reported cars failing to start within days of purchase, traced to Body Control Module (BCM/UCH) faults located in the passenger footwell. Symptoms include: multiple dashboard warning lights appearing simultaneously (tire pressure, traction control, power steering, radar), car completing system checks but refusing to start, climate control and radio screens going blank 5 seconds after startup. The BCM can fail due to water ingress (see water leak issue below). Diagnosis via OBD scanner costs €50-150. BCM replacement at dealer costs €800-1,200 including programming. Some cases resolved with software updates (€100-200). Issues appear most common on 2021-2022 production; 2023+ models show improvement.
MediaNav multimedia screen failure€300 - €800
Screen goes black, overheating, firmware update failures · more· less
The MediaNav system can overheat and shut off automatically when temperatures inside the vehicle are too high or low. Common issues include: screen going completely blank or only showing the Dacia logo, firmware updates via USB causing the system to freeze, volume control malfunctions, Google search activating repeatedly. Dacia acknowledged "issues with the LG multimedia" units installed in 2021-2022 models. Note that in April 2021, Dacia removed satellite navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto from Comfort trim Sanderos, causing confusion. Replacement MediaNav screens cost €300-500 from aftermarket suppliers. Dealer replacement with programming can reach €700-800. Check which system variant your car has (MediaNav, MediaNav Evolution, or Media Display) before ordering parts - they are not interchangeable.
Water leaks into cabin€0 - €300
Blocked scuttle drains cause water in passenger footwell · more· less
This is a known problem across Dacia/Renault, Peugeot, and Nissan vehicles sharing platform components. The scuttle tray (at base of windscreen) has a drain plug with a rubber flap that becomes blocked by leaves and debris, causing water to accumulate in the passenger footwell after heavy rain. Water can also enter through: door drain holes with stuck rubber bungs, between window glass and exterior wiper seal running down inside door card, poorly designed roof aerial lip seal, and windscreen seal leaks. The BCM is located in the passenger footwell - water ingress here can cause catastrophic electrical failures. Most water leak issues can be resolved by unblocking drains (DIY or €50-150 at garage). If the BCM has been damaged by water, replacement costs €800-1,200. Prevention: regularly check and clear scuttle drains accessible from the engine bay.
Difficulty engaging 2nd and 3rd gear, especially when cold · more· less
The 6-speed manual gearbox fitted to 2021+ Sandero Stepway models has a notoriously notchy feel, particularly when cold. Multiple owners report having to be "rough" with the shifter to engage gears, especially 2nd gear. Even automotive journalists reviewing the car have commented on this characteristic. Causes include: worn synchronizers, old or incorrect transmission oil specification, clutch not disengaging completely, or low gearbox oil level. The issue affects many examples - it appears to be a characteristic of this gearbox design rather than a defect affecting only some cars. Solutions: changing gearbox oil with specific synchronizer-cleaning additives can help (€150-250). If problem persists, synchronizer replacement requires gearbox disassembly (€300-400 labor at independent garage). Verify clutch adjustment is correct. Note: This is less of a "failure" and more of an annoying characteristic you should test-drive before purchase.
Thermostat housing gasket leak€200 - €450
Coolant leaks from plastic thermostat housing · more· less
The thermostat housing gasket is a known fault on 1.0 TCe (900cc/H4B and 1.0L/H5F) engines. The thermostat and housing are integrated as one plastic part, which often cracks. Symptoms include needing to frequently refill coolant and visible coolant leaks. Poor-quality gaskets on early production models cause significant water leaks - without rapid detection, there's risk of head gasket damage or complete engine failure from overheating. The part (thermostat housing with gasket, part number 110624453R) costs around €80-150 depending on source (Dacia dealers charge more; Autodoc and similar suppliers offer cheaper alternatives). Labor is approximately 2-3 hours due to access restrictions (€120-300). Total repair cost €200-450. Use UV dye and a black light UV torch to diagnose leaks inexpensively before they become serious.
EGR valve carbon buildup€150 - €400
Power loss, rough idling, increased fuel consumption · more· less
Over time, the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve becomes clogged with soot buildup, particularly on cars used mainly for short trips. Symptoms include: rough idling, erratic engine functioning including stalling, increased fuel consumption, higher emissions, and "check anti-pollution system" warning light. If the valve is merely dirty/clogged, it can be cleaned (€150-250 including labor). However, if the valve has developed leaks or cracks, it must be replaced. EGR valve replacement costs €300-400 including labor. The valve itself is tightly fitted in the engine bay, requiring significant labor for removal. Preventive maintenance: use good quality fuel, avoid excessive idling, take the car for occasional longer drives at higher RPM to burn off carbon deposits. Some manufacturers recommend EGR cleaning service every 50,000 miles.
Power loss / limp mode (various causes)€100 - €600
Spanner light with total power loss when accelerating · more· less
Some owners report experiencing the spanner warning light with total loss of power (unable to exceed 30 km/h) when accelerating, sometimes occurring 10-12 times in 9 months. Common causes include: faulty EGR valve (see above), boost pressure control issues from vacuum line leaks or faulty vacuum switching valves, throttle body problems (Renault engines have had throttle body issues causing loss of power and non-responsive throttle pedal), turbo wastegate actuator failure (see first issue above). Diagnosis requires an OBD scanner to read fault codes (€50-150). Repairs vary: vacuum line replacement €100-200, throttle body cleaning €150-250, throttle body replacement €400-600, EGR valve €300-400, turbo actuator €500-700. The challenge is that limp mode can be triggered by multiple different causes - proper diagnosis is essential.
Budget car with budget car problems
The Sandero Stepway is Europe's cheapest new car, and you get what you pay for. Early production (2021-2022) had significant teething problems with electrical systems and multimedia units. The turbo wastegate rattle affects most cars and Dacia won't fix it under warranty. However, when issues occur, parts are significantly cheaper than competitors - a major advantage. If you buy a 2023+ car that's past the initial electrical gremlins and you can tolerate the wastegate rattle, ownership costs remain very low. Just accept that build quality and refinement are basic compared to more expensive rivals.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Dacia dealer or specialist records essential. Verify oil changes at 15,000 km or annual intervals.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), and uneven wear patterns. Stepway uses 185/65R15 tires.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for turbo wastegate rattle between 1,000-2,100 rpm - this is extremely common but verify how loud it is.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including varied speeds. Test the gearbox when cold and warm - notchy shifting is normal but excessive stiffness indicates issues.
Interior condition
Check for signs of water damage, especially in passenger footwell where BCM is located. Musty smell indicates water leak problems.
Specific for this vehicle
Test all electrical systems and check for warning lights
Turn on ignition and watch for multiple warning lights (tire pressure, traction control, power steering, radar). Test windows, mirrors, door locks, climate control. Request an OBD scan to check for stored fault codes.
Listen for turbo wastegate rattle on test drive
Between 1,000-2,100 rpm during acceleration and deceleration. A slight rattle is "normal" according to Dacia, but excessive noise suggests advanced wear. This affects most cars - decide if you can tolerate it.
Check for water leaks in cabin
Inspect passenger footwell carpet for dampness. Look under floor mats. Check door seals and scuttle drain (accessible from engine bay) for blockages. Water damage to BCM is expensive.
Test MediaNav multimedia system thoroughly
Check screen doesn't go black or freeze. Test all functions: radio, navigation (if equipped), phone pairing, volume control. Try multiple hot/cold starts to check for temperature-related failures.
Inspect for coolant leaks
Check coolant level and condition. Look for staining around thermostat housing. Verify no sweet smell of coolant. Check under car after test drive for drips.
Check production date (prefer 2023+)
Early 2021-2022 production had more electrical issues. According to manufacturer data, warranty interventions improved by 22% after first half of 2021. 2023+ models are generally better.
Test gearbox shifting when completely cold
Difficulty engaging 2nd and 3rd gear when cold is common. Excessive force required or grinding noises indicate worn synchronizers or low gearbox oil.
Verify recall completed (battery terminal / alternator)
Contact Dacia with VIN to confirm the battery positive terminal proximity to alternator heat sink recall has been completed (fire risk).
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Battery terminal / alternator short circuit (H4Bt engines built before 26 July 2019)Verify completed
Technical Bulletin 71538: Turbo wastegate rattle (TCe 90 / Eco-G 100)Acknowledged, considered normal
Contact a Dacia dealer with the VIN to verify the battery terminal recall has been completed. The wastegate rattle issue is acknowledged by Dacia via Technical Bulletin 71538 but is not considered a warranty-eligible defect - they will not replace the turbo for this complaint alone.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty3 years / 60,000 miles
Paintwork warranty2 years
Anti-corrosion warranty6 years
Dacia Zen extended warranty+1 year / 18,000 miles per service (up to 7 years / 75,000 miles total)
The Dacia Zen program provides a free 1-year/18,000-mile warranty extension every time you service your vehicle at a Dacia dealer, up to a maximum of 7 years or 75,000 miles total. This warranty is transferable to new owners. Note that the turbo wastegate rattle issue is explicitly not covered under warranty per Technical Bulletin 71538.
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.