Dacia Lodgy
Renault's 1.3-litre turbo engine is considered significantly more refined than its predecessor the H5F — mileages above 200,000 km without major damage are well documented. Direct injection promotes carbon build-up on the intake valves; periodic cleaning is recommended. Keep an eye on oil consumption; overall a reliable everyday engine.
Strong turbo
131 hp TCe in the Lodgy — well powered. Strong pull from low revs.
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 7
The Lodgy's suspension shows problems as early as the first MOT — by the third inspection the fault rate is four times the average.
The Lodgy's brake lines are so corroded after at most seven years of use that replacement is the only option.
The Lodgy's electrical systems can develop problems with engine and gearbox control units from 70,000–90,000 km.
Lighting is a chronic MOT problem on the Lodgy, with the headlights being the main culprit.
The Lodgy's air conditioning shows frequent faults, appearing as early as 40,000–60,000 km.
Elevated oil loss from engine and gearbox is typical for the Lodgy.
Model years 2013 to 2015 in particular show frequent battery failures. The standard battery is undersized for the power demands of a seven-seater.
Reports & Tests
One in five Lodgys has problems at MOT. Suspension rises to four times the average by the third inspection. Brake lines and oil loss are persistently flagged.
