Dacia Logan
Structurally simple, robust 1.6-litre naturally aspirated engine with high mileage potential. The water pump is the weak point: if it fails, head gasket damage threatens. LPG variant with factory-fitted LPG system; observe 10-year tank re-certification and have injectors checked regularly.
Economical on gas
The 1.6 with LPG saves at the pump. Performance is adequate; the boot shrinks slightly due to the gas tank.
Engine Weaknesses 8
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
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
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
LPG tanks must be inspected and replaced if necessary after 10 years (mandatory inspection). Internal corrosion from condensation is possible.
Symptoms: LPG tanks must be inspected after 10 years
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
Valve cover gasket becomes porous after 100,000+ km. Oil loss visible at the cylinder head. Inexpensive to replace.
Symptoms: Valve cover gasket becomes porous after 100,000 km
Landi Renzo LPG injectors foul up over time. Replace the gas filter every 15,000 km. Rough running in LPG mode is a symptom.
Symptoms: Landi Renzo LPG injectors foul up over time
LPG ECU (Landi Renzo) is encrypted — only specialist workshops can read it. Regular Dacia dealers are often unable to diagnose it.
Symptoms: LPG ECU (Landi Renzo) is encrypted — only specialist workshops can read it
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
Recall issued for vehicles produced between September and December 2015 due to possible fatigue fractures of the steering rod. Safety-critical.
Recall for 2012/2013 models due to faulty ignition unit wiring that could prevent airbag deployment in a crash.
Recall for several model years due to possible breakage of the bonnet latch bracket, which can cause the bonnet to fly open while driving.
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.
Lighting defects appear on the Logan II after just a few years of use. Low beam, tail lights, and indicators fail at well above average rates at MOT.
The Logan II's paint is thinly applied and vulnerable to stone chips. Windscreens scratch quickly and become hazy, impairing visibility in direct sunlight.
Battery failures are among the frequent breakdown reports for the Logan II, especially for model years 2012 to 2014. The standard batteries are undersized for the vehicle's power demands.
Reports & Tests
Defect rate of 39.6% on 10–11-year-old vehicles. Suspension, brakes, and exhaust emissions are chronic problem areas.
