Dacia Logan
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.
Economy above all
Only 75 hp from the small diesel — very economical, but also very slow. Recommended only for low-mileage drivers.
Engine Weaknesses 5
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 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
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
DPF clogs when the car is used mostly for short trips. Regeneration fails, engine power is reduced. Regular motorway runs help.
Symptoms: DPF clogs with predominantly short-trip use
EGR valve gets coked up with soot, especially in city traffic. Power loss and increased emissions. Cleaning every 60,000 km recommended.
Symptoms: EGR valve sooted up, especially in city traffic
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.
