Dacia Dokker
Entry-level variant of the Renault 1.3-litre turbo — considered significantly more refined than the predecessor H5F. Direct injection promotes carbon build-up on the intake valves; periodic cleaning is recommended. With correct maintenance, overall a reliable and economical everyday engine.
Entry-level turbo
The 1.3 TCe with 102 hp in the Dokker offers adequate power. Turbo-typical torque in the mid-range.
Engine Weaknesses 4
Direct injection carbon build-up on the intake valves. Power loss and rough running after 80,000+ km. Walnut blasting is the solution.
Symptoms: Direct injection carbon build-up on the intake valves
Manufacturer states 150,000 km, workshops recommend an inspection from 100,000 km. Considerably better than the H5F predecessor, but a check is sensible.
Symptoms: Manufacturer states 150,000 km service life
Turbocharger bearings can develop play from 100,000 km. Whistling under load is a symptom. Observe oil quality and warm-up phase.
Symptoms: Turbocharger bearings can develop play from 100,000 km
Oil consumption of 0.3–0.5 L/1,000 km is possible under spirited driving. Regular oil level checks are recommended.
Symptoms: Oil consumption of 0.3–0.5 L/1,000 km under spirited driving
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
From the third MOT onwards, the Dokker's foot brake is flagged as a defect at above-average frequency.
A recall was issued for vehicles produced February to April 2016 because metal swarf in the ABS control unit could impair brake pressure distribution.
The Dokker's axle suspension is cited as defective at above-average frequency during MOT inspections.
The sliding door mechanism tends to jam and fail. A recall covered vehicles produced July 2015 to September 2016 due to a faulty sliding door lock.
Oil leaks on the Dokker become noticeably more frequent from the second MOT onwards.
Window regulators and central locking frequently fail on the Dokker.
Reports & Tests
Only 55% of 8–9-year-old Dokkers pass without defects (average: 72.4%). Lighting up to six times more likely to be defective than the class average.
