Dacia Logan 2
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
With the Logan II from 2012, Dacia stepped things up in looks and engineering while staying true to the recipe: a cheap, spacious compact — saloon and estate (MCV) — that scores with proven Renault technology at a knock-down price. Build quality became noticeably more solid than before, but the character remains that of an honest workhorse for family and everyday use — no premium, but a fair value-for-money proposition and low running costs.
The engines get more interesting because the old and new worlds meet here. The classic naturally aspirated units — the 1.6-litre eight-valve K7M and the 1.2-litre 16V D4F — are as undemanding and long-lived as ever, with the timing belt as a fixed appointment and the water pump as a known weak point. These engines are the safe bet. Be more cautious with the modern 0.9-litre three-cylinder turbo (H4B): it runs economically and feels lively, but brings the typical downsizing issues — raised oil consumption, oil in the spark-plug wells and, above all, timing-chain stretch. That makes it trickier than the old naturally aspirated units, so a maintenance history is essential. The 1.0-litre B4D naturally aspirated unit is simply too weak and rough, and can be safely avoided. The 1.5 dCi diesel (K9K) remains the long-distance runner of the range; the stronger 65 and 66 kW versions and the Euro 6 Blue dCi are the sensible choices. The factory LPG variants are in high demand thanks to low fuel costs.
On the car itself, it's notable that the Logan II had a run of recalls — steering column, airbag wiring and bonnet latch should be checked as done. Add worn steering joints, a weak battery prone to deep discharge, sensitive paint and the prematurely worn Easy-R clutch on the automated gearbox — the latter a good reason to go for the manual when buying.
Bottom line: the Logan II is a thoroughly sound, cheap car — provided you pick the right engine. A naturally aspirated unit or a cared-for K9K with documented servicing is a genuine recommendation. With the H4B turbo, a dose of scepticism and a close look at the oil and chain pay off.
105 PS
Logan · Benzin
Refined four-cylinder
Decent73 PS
1.0L NA Benzin
3 weaknesses
Good ChoiceBody Variants
The Dacia Logan 2 is available as Sedan and Wagon — choose your body type for specific insurance data:
Generations
Engine Overview
The Dacia Logan 2 is available with 7 engine variants — from 73 to 105 hp. 2 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.
A turbocharged 1.5-litre diesel in its Blue guise with AdBlue injection and an SCR catalyst to meet the Euro 6 standard, fundamentally a very robust and smooth-running compression engine. In addition to the regular service schedule, AdBlue needs topping up and the SCR catalyst wants keeping an eye on. Injectors and the high-pressure pump remain the typical wear points at high mileages, and the EGR valve also clogs with soot. The diesel particulate filter blocks up under predominantly short-trip use, so plan regular longer runs to allow regeneration. Check the oil level consistently.
- !! Injectors worn out from 105,000 km
Delphi injection system (pre-2006) is particularly troublesome — injectors worn out by 60,000 km. Siemens system (from 2006) is significantly better.
Symptoms: Delphi injection system (pre-2006) particularly problematic — injectors worn out by 60,000 km - !! Turbocharger worn from 105,000 km
Turbocharger can develop play from 60,000 km, especially with short-trip use and no warm-up. Whistling and smoke as symptoms.
Symptoms: Turbocharger can develop play from 60,000 km - !! Connecting rod bearing damage from oil neglect from 150,000 km
Neglected oil changes can cause connecting rod bearing failure — catastrophic engine damage. Regular oil changes every 15,000 km are non-negotiable.
Symptoms: Neglected oil changes can cause connecting rod bearing failure — catastrophic engine damage
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Renault's legendary 1.5 dCi diesel engine (K9K) is considered exceptionally long-lived — 300,000 to 400,000 km with good maintenance are well documented. Early series had injector weaknesses; later 800-series variants are considerably more reliable. Strictly observe oil change intervals to prevent con-rod bearing damage.
- !! Injectors worn out from 105,000 km
Delphi injection system (pre-2006) is particularly troublesome — injectors worn out by 60,000 km. Siemens system (from 2006) is significantly better.
Symptoms: Delphi injection system (pre-2006) particularly problematic — injectors worn out by 60,000 km - !! Turbocharger worn from 105,000 km
Turbocharger can develop play from 60,000 km, especially with short-trip use and no warm-up. Whistling and smoke as symptoms.
Symptoms: Turbocharger can develop play from 60,000 km - !! Connecting rod bearing damage from oil neglect from 150,000 km
Neglected oil changes can cause connecting rod bearing failure — catastrophic engine damage. Regular oil changes every 15,000 km are non-negotiable.
Symptoms: Neglected oil changes can cause connecting rod bearing failure — catastrophic engine damage
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
A proven 1.5-litre common-rail diesel widely regarded as exceptionally long-lived, reaching 300,000 to 400,000 kilometres with disciplined servicing. The typical cost centres lie in the injection system: worn injectors show up as rough running and hard starting, and the turbocharger can develop play at high mileage. The diesel particulate filter tends to clog in short-trip use, and the EGR valve sooties up and causes power dips — regular motorway runs for regeneration help. The most serious point is sensitivity to low oil level: with insufficient oil or overrun change intervals, big-end bearing damage looms. Strict oil care and clean intake tracts are this engine's life insurance.
- !! Injectors worn out from 105,000 km
Delphi injection system (pre-2006) is particularly troublesome — injectors worn out by 60,000 km. Siemens system (from 2006) is significantly better.
Symptoms: Delphi injection system (pre-2006) particularly problematic — injectors worn out by 60,000 km - !! Turbocharger worn from 105,000 km
Turbocharger can develop play from 60,000 km, especially with short-trip use and no warm-up. Whistling and smoke as symptoms.
Symptoms: Turbocharger can develop play from 60,000 km - !! Connecting rod bearing damage from oil neglect from 150,000 km
Neglected oil changes can cause connecting rod bearing failure — catastrophic engine damage. Regular oil changes every 15,000 km are non-negotiable.
Symptoms: Neglected oil changes can cause connecting rod bearing failure — catastrophic engine damage
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
A proven 1.5-litre common-rail diesel with a reputation for being exceptionally durable and smooth-running, serving in countless small and compact cars. At high mileages the typical wear points are the injectors and the turbocharger — worn injectors show up as harsh running and poor cold starts. The diesel particulate filter can clog under predominantly short-trip use, so regular longer drives aid regeneration. The EGR valve sootens up over time and impairs running smoothness and power. Most important is strict adherence to oil-change intervals: oil starvation or overrun intervals risk connecting-rod bearing damage that catastrophically ruins the engine.
- !! Injectors worn out from 105,000 km
Delphi injection system (pre-2006) is particularly troublesome — injectors worn out by 60,000 km. Siemens system (from 2006) is significantly better.
Symptoms: Delphi injection system (pre-2006) particularly problematic — injectors worn out by 60,000 km - !! Turbocharger worn from 105,000 km
Turbocharger can develop play from 60,000 km, especially with short-trip use and no warm-up. Whistling and smoke as symptoms.
Symptoms: Turbocharger can develop play from 60,000 km - !! Connecting rod bearing damage from oil neglect from 150,000 km
Neglected oil changes can cause connecting rod bearing failure — catastrophic engine damage. Regular oil changes every 15,000 km are non-negotiable.
Symptoms: Neglected oil changes can cause connecting rod bearing failure — catastrophic engine damage
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
A small 0.9-litre three-cylinder turbo that scores with low consumption and a lively pull, but brings a few characteristic weak spots. The turbocharger can suffer from heat soak after many years — warming up and a brief cool-down before shutting off noticeably extend its life. The timing chain is prone to stretching, announced by rattling on a cold start, and should be taken seriously. Oil in the spark plug wells from ageing seals, together with elevated oil consumption, appears over time, so regular oil-level checks are mandatory. A rattling wastegate is a known noise that does not necessarily impair function. Oil care is decisive on this turbo.
- !! Timing chain stretch from 125,000 km
Timing chain stretches after 100,000–150,000 km. Rattling on cold start is the first symptom. Replace before the chain tensioner reaches its limit.
Symptoms: Timing chain stretches after 100,000 km - !! Oil in spark plug tubes from 90,000 km
Typical three-cylinder issue: valve cover gasket leaks in the spark plug tube area. Oil seeps down around the spark plugs.
Symptoms: Typical three-cylinder issue: valve cover gasket leaks in the spark plug tube area - !! Elevated oil consumption from 115,000 km
Turbocharger seals deteriorate over time. Oil consumption of 0.5–1.0 L/1,000 km is possible. Regular oil level checks are essential.
Symptoms: Turbocharger seals deteriorate over time
+ 1 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Renault's 0.9-litre three-cylinder turbo engine with known weak points: turbocharger prone to wear, ignition coil failures possible. LPG variant with factory-fitted LPG system; observe mandatory tank re-certification every 10 years. Additional heat from turbo and LPG operation — keep an eye on the cooling system.
- !! Timing chain stretch from 125,000 km
Timing chain stretches after 100,000–150,000 km. Rattling on cold start is the first symptom. Replace before the chain tensioner reaches its limit.
Symptoms: Timing chain stretches after 100,000 km - !! Oil in spark plug tubes from 90,000 km
Typical three-cylinder issue: valve cover gasket leaks in the spark plug tube area. Oil seeps down around the spark plugs.
Symptoms: Typical three-cylinder issue: valve cover gasket leaks in the spark plug tube area - !! Elevated oil consumption from 115,000 km
Turbocharger seals deteriorate over time. Oil consumption of 0.5–1.0 L/1,000 km is possible. Regular oil level checks are essential.
Symptoms: Turbocharger seals deteriorate over time
+ 5 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
A plain 1.0-litre three-cylinder naturally aspirated unit built for economical city driving and low running costs. Without hydraulic lifters the valve clearance must be checked periodically, otherwise the valvetrain grows noisy. The timing chain repays overly long oil-change intervals with premature wear — short intervals are mandatory. By design three cylinders run rougher, and noticeable idle vibration is normal. The valve cover gasket is prone to oil seepage and uses a liquid sealant, which makes the repair more involved. One production batch carries a recall for a leaking fuel line, and its completion should be documented in the service record.
- !! Recall: leaking fuel line
2021 recall for Sandero III: fuel line may develop a leak. 20,600 vehicles affected. Free repair at the dealer.
Symptoms: 2021 recall for Sandero III: fuel line may develop a leak - ! Oil leak at the valve cover from 80,000 km
On the 1.0 SCe the valve cover is bonded with a liquid sealant rather than a conventional gasket. It starts to weep oil over the years; the repair is labour-intensive as much has to be removed.
Symptoms: Oil-wet valve cover, oil smell in the engine bay, oil traces and a slowly dropping oil level, sometimes oil in the spark-plug wells. - i Three-cylinder vibrations
Typical three-cylinder vibrations at idle, especially with the air conditioning on. By design, not a defect. Check engine mounts if vibrations are more pronounced.
Symptoms: Typical three-cylinder vibrations at idle, especially with the air conditioning on
A compact 1.2-litre 16-valve naturally aspirated engine — simple, manageable technology without forced induction that reaches mileages up to 300,000 km with careful maintenance. Output is adequate for city driving but needs revs for brisk progress, as low-end torque is modest. The timing belt must be changed strictly on schedule, since a break destroys the valves. Spark plug wells can fill with oil once the rocker cover gasket ages, causing misfires. The ignition coil and leads form a vulnerable unit and should be checked when starting problems appear. Note also a recall over faulty valve cotters on certain model years, whose completion should be documented in the service record.
- !! Recall: faulty valve cotters
Recall for vehicles produced September–November 2010: faulty valve cotters may come loose and cause engine damage.
Symptoms: Recall for vehicles produced September–November 2010: faulty valve cotters may come loose and cause engine damage - !! Timing belt every 90,000 km from 85,000 km
Timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km or 5 years. The small engine is not interference-free.
Symptoms: Timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km - !! Oil in spark plug tubes from 115,000 km
Valve cover gasket leaks in the spark plug tube area. Oil collects around the spark plugs and can cause misfires.
Symptoms: Valve cover gasket leaks in the spark plug tube area
A compact 1.2-litre sixteen-valve unit with straightforward engineering that easily passes 250,000 kilometres with consistent care. The key maintenance item is the timing belt: it must be renewed at 90,000 kilometres at the latest, or a snapped belt causes costly valve damage. A known issue is cracked or oil-filled spark-plug wells where oil collects and disrupts ignition — renew the seals promptly if affected. There is also a recall for faulty valve keepers that should definitely be checked and completed. Otherwise a frugal naturally aspirated engine with no fundamental weaknesses, rewarding regular oil changes and a clean ignition system with longevity.
- !! Recall: faulty valve cotters
Recall for vehicles produced September–November 2010: faulty valve cotters may come loose and cause engine damage.
Symptoms: Recall for vehicles produced September–November 2010: faulty valve cotters may come loose and cause engine damage - !! Timing belt every 90,000 km from 85,000 km
Timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km or 5 years. The small engine is not interference-free.
Symptoms: Timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km - !! Oil in spark plug tubes from 115,000 km
Valve cover gasket leaks in the spark plug tube area. Oil collects around the spark plugs and can cause misfires.
Symptoms: Valve cover gasket leaks in the spark plug tube area
A compact 1.2-litre 16-valve naturally aspirated petrol engine with simple technology that can reach 300,000 km when cared for. The timing belt absolutely must be renewed on schedule; a failure risks severe valve and piston damage. Oil in the spark-plug wells is a typical ageing symptom and should be monitored. In factory autogas operation the drier combustion causes increased valve-seat wear, fouled gas injectors and limited diagnostics of the gas system. The gas tank is subject to mandatory revision and may develop corrosion after roughly ten years.
- !! Recall: faulty valve cotters
Recall for vehicles produced September–November 2010: faulty valve cotters may come loose and cause engine damage.
Symptoms: Recall for vehicles produced September–November 2010: faulty valve cotters may come loose and cause engine damage - !! Timing belt every 90,000 km from 85,000 km
Timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km or 5 years. The small engine is not interference-free.
Symptoms: Timing belt must be replaced every 90,000 km - !! Oil in spark plug tubes from 115,000 km
Valve cover gasket leaks in the spark plug tube area. Oil collects around the spark plugs and can cause misfires.
Symptoms: Valve cover gasket leaks in the spark plug tube area
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Renault's 1.6-litre 16V naturally aspirated engine is one of the most robust in the Renault family — mileages above 300,000 km are well documented. The variable valve timing (VVT) unit can cause rattling noises and slight power loss on a warm engine. Engine mounts wear and lead to noticeable vibrations at idle.
- !! Timing belt every 120,000 km from 110,000 km
Timing belt and water pump due every 120,000 km or 6 years. More involved replacement than on the K7M due to the 16V head.
Symptoms: Timing belt and water pump due every 120,000 km - !! VVT actuator sticking from 115,000 km
VVT oil control valve fouls and sticks. Rattling on cold start; power loss. Clean or replace the solenoid valve.
Symptoms: VVT oil control valve fouls and sticks - !! Ignition coils susceptible to moisture from 90,000 km
Ignition coil housing develops hairline cracks; moisture ingresses. Engine runs on 3 cylinders; misfires in wet conditions.
Symptoms: Ignition coil housing develops hairline cracks; moisture ingresses
+ 1 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
A mechanically simple 1.6-litre eight-valve engine with port injection that has a reputation for being exceptionally rugged and durable. The valvetrain is driven by a timing belt — the specified replacement interval must be observed without fail, as a snapped belt causes catastrophic engine damage. Over its service life a noticeable crankshaft axial play tends to develop, announced by dull knocking noises, and should be monitored. A dirty idle control valve leads to a rough or fluctuating idle and can usually be cleaned. The rocker cover gasket often begins to weep oil with age, which is cheap and predictable wear. With consistent maintenance, very high mileages are easily attainable.
- !! Observe timing belt interval from 75,000 km
Timing belt due every 60,000–90,000 km. Not interference-free — a snapped belt means valve damage and total engine failure.
Symptoms: Timing belt due every 60,000–90,000 km - !! Crankshaft axial play from 160,000 km
Trigger wheel shifts due to crankshaft axial play. TDC sensor loses signal; engine fails to start or runs rough.
Symptoms: Trigger wheel shifts due to crankshaft axial play - ! Idle control valve fouled from 115,000 km
Same weakness as the K7J — valve fouls, engine stalls at idle. Cleaning usually helps.
Symptoms: Same weakness as the K7J — valve fouls, engine stalls at idle
+ 1 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
A mechanically simple 1.6-litre eight-valve naturally aspirated engine with belt-driven camshaft, considered robust and long-lived. The main weak point is the water pump, whose failure can lead to cylinder head damage in the worst case, so replace the timing belt together with the pump at the specified interval. Running on factory-fitted autogas increases valve seat wear, so keep an eye on valve clearance and compression. The gas injectors tend to clog and need cleaning, while the gas tank requires recertification after ten years. Diagnosis is straightforward and spare parts are cheap.
- !! Observe timing belt interval from 75,000 km
Timing belt due every 60,000–90,000 km. Not interference-free — a snapped belt means valve damage and total engine failure.
Symptoms: Timing belt due every 60,000–90,000 km - !! Crankshaft axial play from 160,000 km
Trigger wheel shifts due to crankshaft axial play. TDC sensor loses signal; engine fails to start or runs rough.
Symptoms: Trigger wheel shifts due to crankshaft axial play - !! Valve seat wear from LPG operation from 90,000 km
LPG burns hotter than petrol — valve seats wear faster. Check valve clearance every 30,000 km. Hardened valve seats fitted from the factory.
Symptoms: LPG burns hotter than petrol — valve seats wear faster
+ 5 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Worn steering joints Steering joints and tie rod ends remain regular weak points at MOT in the second generation as well. The defect rate is well above the vehicle average. Symptoms: Steering play, vague feedback when turning, MOT failure due to worn joints from 80,000 km | Low |
Test Reports
TÜV Report
Defect rate of 39.6% on 10–11-year-old vehicles. Suspension, brakes, and exhaust emissions are chronic problem areas.
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 72 weaknesses have been documented for the Dacia Logan 2 (2012–2020) — 64 engine-related and 8 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Suspension, Electronics, Other, Body. Considered reliable: K7M-62kW (1.6L 8V), B4D (1.0L NA).
Logan (K9K-55kW, 2012–2021) — Be Careful: Injectors worn out, Turbocharger worn, Connecting rod bearing damage from oil neglect. Power: 68–75 PS.
Logan (K9K-65kW, 2012–2018) — Be Careful: Injectors worn out, Turbocharger worn, Connecting rod bearing damage from oil neglect. Power: 86–95 PS.
Logan (K9K-66kW, 2012–2021) — Be Careful: Injectors worn out, Turbocharger worn, Connecting rod bearing damage from oil neglect. Power: 86–95 PS.
Logan (K9K-70kW, 2018–2021) — Be Careful: Injectors worn out, Turbocharger worn, Connecting rod bearing damage from oil neglect. Power: 90–95 PS.
Logan (K4M, 2012–2016) — Be Careful: Timing belt every 120,000 km, VVT actuator sticking, Ignition coils susceptible to moisture. Power: 105 PS.
Logan (D4F-55kW, 2012–2015) — Be Careful: Recall: faulty valve cotters, Timing belt every 90,000 km, Oil in spark plug tubes. Power: 73–75 PS.
Logan (H4B, 2012–2021) — Be Careful: Timing chain stretch, Oil in spark plug tubes, Elevated oil consumption. Power: 90 PS.
Logan (D4F-54kW, 2015–2021) — Be Careful: Recall: faulty valve cotters, Timing belt every 90,000 km, Oil in spark plug tubes. Power: 73–75 PS.
Logan (K7M-62kW-LPG, 2011–2016) — Be Careful: Observe timing belt interval, Crankshaft axial play, Valve seat wear from LPG operation. Power: 84–87 PS.
Logan (D4F-55kW-LPG, 2011–2015) — Be Careful: Recall: faulty valve cotters, Timing belt every 90,000 km, Oil in spark plug tubes. Power: 75 PS.
Logan (H4B-LPG, 2015–2021) — Be Careful: Timing chain stretch, Oil in spark plug tubes, Elevated oil consumption. Power: 90 PS.
What to watch out for with the Dacia Logan? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Dacia Logan 2 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Dacia Logan 2? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Dacia Logan 2 engine is the most reliable? +
Which Dacia Logan 2 engine is the most fun? +
Is the Dacia Logan 2 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Dacia Logan 2? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee