Popular French family MPV with practical seven-seat option and reasonable running costs. The K9K 1.5 dCi diesel is widely used across Renault-Nissan models but has serious reliability concerns. Pre-May 2016 models suffer from catastrophic oil consumption issues (the "Motorgate" scandal) leading to engine failure - check oil consumption records carefully. Water ingress from blocked scuttle drains can destroy electronics. Electrical systems are notoriously fragile. Parts are affordable but labor-intensive repairs add up. Only consider post-2016 facelift models or those with documented oil consumption fixes.
Expected Annual Maintenance Costs
€700 - €1,350/year
15,000 km/year
Fixed costs
€400-700
Risk buffer
€300-650
What Can Break
bars = likelihood
Engine oil consumption (Motorgate)€3,000 - €8,000
Pre-May 2016 models suffer catastrophic oil consumption leading to engine failure · more· less
This is the most serious issue affecting the 1.5 dCi 105/110 hp engines in pre-May 2016 Scenics. Abnormal oil consumption can reach up to 1 liter per 1,000 km, causing lubrication failure and complete engine destruction. Symptoms include "STOP engine failure risk" warning light, "ESP to be checked" or "Antipollution to be checked" error messages, and white smoke from the exhaust. A class action lawsuit ("Motorgate") was launched against Renault in January 2023. Some owners received ECU reprogramming or piston ring replacement, but many required complete engine replacement at €5,000-8,000. Check oil consumption records meticulously - if the car needs more than 0.5 liters between services, walk away. Post-May 2016 models have modifications that reduce this risk significantly.
Water ingress from blocked scuttle drains€500 - €2,500
Design flaw allows water to flood interior electronics when drains clog · more· less
All Scenics suffer from blocked drain holes under the scuttle panel (below wiper motors). When these drains clog with leaves and debris, water floods into the car through the heater inlet, destroying the UCH control unit, dashboard electronics, and filling the front footwell storage bins. The felt scuttle panel cover degrades from constant soaking/drying cycles, making the problem worse. Check the front underfloor cubby bins for any moisture - if wet, the car likely has extensive electrical damage. Prevention requires cleaning the drains every 6 months (remove wiper arms and scuttle panel to access). If already damaged, expect €500-1,200 for UCH replacement plus €300-1,300 for additional electrical component repairs. Scuttle panel replacement costs €150+ from dealer.
Short journeys and city driving cause DPF to clog, triggering limp mode · more· less
The diesel particulate filter requires regular regeneration (self-cleaning) at highway speeds. Short trips and city driving prevent regeneration, causing soot accumulation and complete blockage. Symptoms include antipollution filter warnings, spanner warning light, loss of power, and limp mode. DPF problems often interconnect with EGR valve issues and thermostat failures - a stuck-open thermostat prevents the engine reaching operating temperature, generating more soot and blocking the DPF faster. Professional DPF cleaning costs €300-600, but severely blocked filters require replacement at €800-1,500 plus labor. Must use RN0720 specification oil to prevent premature DPF blocking. Drive at highway speeds for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 weeks to maintain DPF health.
Electronic parking brake failure€175 - €750
EPB motor seizes or wiring under passenger seat gets water damaged · more· less
The electronic parking brake motor commonly seizes, and the wiring under the passenger seat is prone to water damage from scuttle drain issues. Low battery voltage can also trigger parking brake faults. Renault dealers quote €750+ for EPB repairs, but specialist refurbishers like BBA Reman can fix the motor for €175+VAT. Try the reset procedure first: turn ignition on without starting, open driver's door, press lock button on keycard, insert keycard and press start button for 5 seconds, then pull the large part of the handbrake handle while pushing the small button with red light. Some Scenic EPB failures were subject to Renault goodwill contributions covering approximately 80% of repair costs - contact Renault UK customer relations.
Timing belt and water pump€500 - €900
Must replace every 6 years or 90,000 km - interference engine · more· less
The K9K 1.5 dCi is an interference engine - if the timing belt breaks, pistons hit valves causing catastrophic damage. Official Renault interval is 6 years or 72,000 miles (90,000 km), though some recommend more conservative intervals. Always replace the complete kit including tensioner and pulleys, not just the belt. The water pump is also belt-driven and should be replaced simultaneously. Dealer cost is approximately €700-900; independent garage with quality parts (Gates belt) costs €500-700. Budget €100-150 extra if the water pump hasn't been changed. Premature timing belt failure is rare on the K9K, but neglecting replacement intervals will destroy the engine.
Turbocharger and EGR valve failures€600 - €2,500
Turbo actuator sticks from gentle driving, EGR clogs from carbon buildup · more· less
The turbo actuator tends to stick if driven gently or only for short trips, as carbon builds up. Symptoms include EPC light, loss of power, and limp mode. Renault won't sell the actuator separately - actuator-only repair at specialist costs €500-600, but if turbo internals are damaged, full replacement runs €1,200-2,500. The EGR valve frequently clogs with carbon deposits, especially with city driving. A stuck-open EGR valve can cause turbo failure - if only the turbo is replaced without fixing the EGR, the new turbo will fail quickly. EGR cleaning costs €150-300; replacement €400-700. Check small vacuum lines to turbo and control solenoid for cracks. Using premium fuel and occasional spirited highway driving helps prevent both issues.
Fuel injector failure€500 - €2,000
Delphi injectors clog from poor fuel quality, causing misfires and power loss · more· less
Early K9K engines (pre-2011) used Delphi Common Rail injectors that don't tolerate air ingress, clogged fuel filters, or poor quality diesel. Metal particles clog the injectors and damage the high-pressure pump and turbo. Symptoms include severe power loss, misfires, rough running, and fuel smell. Single injector replacement costs €115-500 depending on parts source, but specialists recommend replacing all 4 injectors simultaneously (€800-1,200) because mixing old and new injectors puts strain on the older ones, causing premature failure. If the high-pressure pump also needs reconditioning, total cost reaches €1,500-2,000. Prevention: use quality fuel, replace fuel filter every 30,000 km, and occasionally run the engine hard (3,000+ rpm for 15 minutes) to clean deposits.
Alternator and battery charging faults€200 - €700
"STOP Battery Charging Fault" - can be alternator, UPC fusebox, or wiring · more· less
This is a notoriously common and difficult-to-diagnose fault on Mk3 Scenics. Many owners have replaced the alternator, regulator, battery, battery control unit, UPC fuse panel, and battery negative clamp - yet the warning persists. The issue is often a failed diode in the alternator voltage regulator, giving partial voltage but insufficient current. However, it could also be the UPC (under-bonnet fusebox) to alternator link, a relay soldered to the UPC board, or broken wiring in the engine bay loom. The alternator (210 amp Mitsubishi unit) costs approximately €500 new. Later models with Start-Stop have "intelligent" charging systems requiring diagnostic reset when components are replaced. Test alternator output: engine running should show ~14V across battery; if ~12V, alternator has failed. If voltage is correct but warning persists, suspect UPC or wiring issues.
Dual-mass flywheel failure€600 - €1,200
DMF wears out around 70,000-100,000 km, causing metallic rattle at idle · more· less
The dual-mass flywheel is a wear item that typically fails between 70,000-100,000 km. Symptoms include metallic rattling while idling (especially when cold), clutch judder, and difficulty selecting gears. Excessive play between the DMF plates causes the noise. Renault dealers quote €700+ for DMF replacement alone; with clutch replacement (recommended) total cost reaches €1,000-1,200 at dealers or €600-900 at independent garages. Labor is 6-6.3 hours due to transmission removal. Some owners convert to a solid mass flywheel (SMF) for €400-600 total, which eliminates future DMF failures but may increase drivetrain vibration. Second-hand DMFs can be found for under €100 but reliability is questionable. Always replace clutch and DMF together to avoid repeating the labor cost.
Driver's side window regulator motor€100 - €350
Well-known failure point - driver's window gets stuck due to weak motor · more· less
Thousands of Scenic owners have faced this issue - the driver's side electric window regulator motor is prone to failure. The window gets stuck, usually in the down position. Often the issue is a flimsy regulator bracket that costs only €4.70 for a front pair from Renault. Window regulators are typically sold without the motor for €20-100 aftermarket, or around €250 from Renault dealers. Complete assemblies with motor range from €30-200. DIY repair is possible with basic tools, saving significant labor costs (garages charge €150-250 for parts and installation). Special repair kits are available with all components needed to fix the mechanism. Check whether you need just the bracket, the regulator, or the complete motor assembly before purchasing parts.
Front suspension strut mounts and anti-roll bar links€150 - €450
Knocking sounds over bumps - strut mounts wear, shock absorbers can snap · more· less
Clicking or knocking sounds when cornering from idle or going over bumps typically indicate worn upper strut mounts. This is very common on Scenics - the mount bearings and rubber deteriorate, causing noise and poor handling. Parts cost €20-45 per mount; labor adds €100-200. More seriously, shock absorbers can snap at the upper mounting weld, even on cars with only 50,000 km. Both shocks failing within 3 months of each other has been reported. If replacing strut mounts, consider replacing shocks simultaneously (complete strut with bearing and spring costs €45-90 second-hand). Front anti-roll bar drop links also wear, causing knocking on turns - replacement costs €150-250 including labor. Check wheel alignment after strut mount replacement as previous adjustment may have compensated for the worn mount.
Electrical control unit and wiring loom failures€500 - €1,500
Electronic faults are notoriously common in Scenic 3. The UCH (control unit) can fail as early as 30,000 km, causing the vehicle not to start. Climate control units frequently fail, especially the automatic climate control system. Dashboard displays malfunction, parking brake units fail, and diagnostic costs are high. Wiring looms are known to fail, causing engine management faults. Some issues stem from water damage (see scuttle drain problem), but many are simply poor component quality. UCH replacement costs €500-800, climate control unit €400-700, dashboard display €300-600. Some electrical issues can be resolved with software updates or resetting control units (€100-200), but serious failures require component replacement. Regular checks of battery and earth connections can prevent some problems. Two things kill Renaults: "Sogginess" (water ingress) and lack of maintenance.
High-risk vehicle requiring careful inspection
The Scenic 3 with 1.5 dCi engine has significant reliability concerns, particularly pre-May 2016 models affected by the "Motorgate" oil consumption scandal. Water ingress from blocked scuttle drains destroys expensive electronics. While parts are relatively affordable, the frequency of electrical and mechanical failures makes this a risky purchase unless you can verify comprehensive maintenance records and confirm the engine oil consumption issue has been addressed. Post-2016 facelift models show improved reliability.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential. Verify oil changes at correct intervals (12 months/15,000 km maximum). Look for evidence of timing belt replacement.
Tires
Check tread depth (minimum 3mm for safety), age (date codes - avoid tires over 6 years old), and uneven wear patterns indicating suspension issues.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual rattles, knocks, or rough running. White smoke indicates oil burning (Motorgate issue).
Body condition
Check for rust, accident damage, paint mismatch. Inspect door seals and sunroof drains.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including varied speeds. Monitor all warning lights carefully.
Specific for this vehicle
Check oil consumption records meticulously
This is the most critical check. Review service history for oil top-ups between services. Ask owner how often oil needs topping up. More than 0.5 liters between 15,000 km services indicates Motorgate issue - walk away. Pre-May 2016 models are highest risk.
Inspect front footwell storage bins for water
Open the front underfloor cubby bins and check for any moisture, dampness, or water staining. Even slight dampness indicates blocked scuttle drains and potential electrical damage. If wet, assume UCH and wiring damage - do not buy.
Test all electrical systems thoroughly
Test driver's window (most common failure), all other windows, central locking, electronic parking brake, climate control, dashboard display, headlights, indicators, wipers. Any malfunction suggests wider electrical issues.
Check for DPF and EGR warning lights
During test drive, watch for antipollution warnings, spanner light, or "check injection" messages. Loss of power or limp mode indicates DPF/EGR/injector problems. Test acceleration from standstill and at highway speeds.
Listen for knocking sounds from suspension
Drive over bumps and speed humps slowly. Knocking or clicking from front suspension indicates worn strut mounts or anti-roll bar links. Turn steering lock-to-lock while stationary and listen for grinding.
Verify timing belt replacement history
Belt must be replaced every 6 years or 90,000 km. If no documented evidence, budget €500-900 for immediate replacement. This is an interference engine - belt failure destroys the engine.
Check for metallic rattle at idle when warm
Dual-mass flywheel failure produces distinctive metallic rattling when engine is idling, especially noticeable in neutral. Also test clutch for judder during engagement.
Test electronic parking brake operation
Apply and release EPB multiple times. Listen for motor noise - no sound indicates seized motor. "Check parking brake" warning on startup is a red flag.
Inspect scuttle panel and drain holes
Remove wiper arms if possible to inspect scuttle panel condition. Degraded felt panel indicates water damage risk. Drains should be clear - if clogged with leaves/debris, factor in cleaning time and potential damage.
Check for white/blue smoke from exhaust
During test drive and especially on hard acceleration, watch exhaust for smoke. White smoke = burning oil (Motorgate). Black smoke = DPF/EGR/injector issues. Blue smoke = turbo failure.
Various electrical system recallsVerify with dealer using VIN
Electronic parking brake goodwill repairsContact Renault customer relations
Contact a Renault dealer with the VIN to verify all recalls have been completed. For pre-May 2016 models, inquire about Motorgate class action lawsuit eligibility and any available remedies. Some EPB failures have received Renault goodwill contributions covering ~80% of repair costs.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 100,000 km)Expired on all Scenic 3 models
Paint warranty (3 years)Expired
Anti-corrosion warranty (12 years)May still apply to 2013-2016 models
Extended warranty optionsAvailable for vehicles under 100,000 km
All Scenic 3 models (2009-2016) are outside their original manufacturer warranty. Renault offers 12-month extended warranties for vehicles under 100,000 km. Third-party warranty providers like MotorEasy or AA also offer coverage, but carefully check exclusions - wear and tear items, pre-existing conditions, and water damage are typically not covered. Given this vehicle's reliability issues, extended warranty may not cover most common faults.
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.