Renault Arkana 1
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The Arkana I (from 2021 in Europe) is Renault's coupé-SUV on the Captur/CMF-B base — a stylish roofline, generous standard equipment, but compromises on rear headroom and towing capacity. A car for commuters who want looks without a premium budget. As a young model it lacks solid long-term data — drivetrain choice is decisive.
The more recommendable is the H4M-FHEV (1.6 E-Tech full hybrid, 145 hp): markedly more frugal (a real 5.4 l/100 km), quieter, and its multi-mode gearbox with dog clutch isn't affected by the petrol's gearbox problem. The H5H-1.3 (1.3 TCe mild hybrid, 140/160 hp) is the cheap entry — but burdened with the known EDC dual-clutch problem, which shows itself in a characteristic shift noise ("WHOOOOP") and hard jolts. Only with a demonstrably repaired gearbox and a full service book.
Three themes define the Arkana. First, on the 1.3 TCe: the EDC clutch defect — well documented, repaired by clutch replacement, with parts sometimes on months-long back-order. Second the software and electronics instability of both variants (infotainment crashes, display jumps), mostly fixable by update. Third, on the E-Tech, a documented single case of a DC-DC converter failure with an unavailable spare part. Add a power-steering recall for cars up to November 2021.
Test drive: Pull away on the 1.3 TCe cold without fail and shift several times — the "WHOOOOP" and jerking show clearest when cold; demand a workshop invoice for a completed clutch replacement. On the E-Tech read out the fault memory. Check the power-steering recall (code 0DTM) via the chassis number, check the remaining warranty (only 3 years/60,000 km).
Market 2026: TCe 140 pre-facelift $16,000–19,000, E-Tech 145 from around $19,000, facelift models from 2023 $21,000–26,000.
Insider pick: An H4M-FHEV (E-Tech 145), ideally as an R.S. Line (barely dearer than the base used) with remaining warranty. The full hybrid completely sidesteps the petrol's EDC risk, the drivetrain comes from the proven Clio/Captur — the more rational and quieter choice, as long as the fault memory is clean.
Engine Overview
The Renault Arkana 1 is available with 2 engine variants — from 91 to 163 hp.
A 1.3-litre turbo developed with Daimler, with a timing chain and clearly improved reliability over the 1.2 TCe. Weak points are the wastegate linkage of early years (before the mid-2020 factory revision), the leaking thermostat housing and the intake-valve coking typical of direct injection. Ignition coils and spark plugs fail earlier than expected — a check from 60,000 km is sensible. With good oil care a solid, everyday-capable engine.
- !! Timing Chain Early Wear from 120,000 km
The H5H 1.3 TCe also shows initial timing chain rattling in 2019 models after 50,000–70,000 km. Chain tensioners in particular wear prematurely and must be replaced.
Symptoms: Rattling on cold start, clattering on load changes, camshaft control fault code - !! Wastegate Failure After 80,000+ km from 60,000 km
The wastegate valve of the H5H 1.3 TCe turbocharger wears after 80,000–100,000 km, causing power loss and increased oil consumption.
Symptoms: Power loss, no boost build-up, whistling from the turbo area - !! Thermostat housing leak from 70,000 km
The thermostat housing and its seals start to leak and coolant is lost without a visible external leak. Ignored, it risks overheating. The fault pattern and the part are known from the identical Mercedes engine.
Symptoms: Coolant loss without visible leak, overheating warning, fault code P0128
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Renault's full hybrid system combines a simple, robust 1.6-litre naturally aspirated engine with two electric motors and a 1.2 kWh battery — the combustion engine without direct injection is constructively solid. Early build years show a known shaft seal issue between gearbox and electric motor that causes oil leaks. Overall an economical and reliable drivetrain with correct servicing.
- !! Recall 0ET1: Electric Motor Primary Shaft O-Ring from 30,000 km
Recall 0ET1: An O-ring on the primary shaft of the electric motor inside the DB1 multimode gearbox fails, allowing gearbox oil to contaminate the e-motor. In mild cases only the temperature sensor is damaged (€300–500); in severe cases the e-motor windings are destroyed (up to €8,000). 155,825 vehicles built April 2019 – September 2022 affected. Renault replaces the original O-ring with a reinforced X-ring.
Symptoms: Gearbox overheating warning, power limitation, 'electric motor fault' warning, internal oil loss without visible external leak - !! Electric Motor Failure from Oil Contamination from 50,000 km
When the O-ring on the electric motor's primary shaft fails (recall 0ET1), gearbox oil enters the integrated e-motor and destroys its windings. On vehicles built 2019–2022, damage can occur without warning. Repair costs outside warranty: €3,000–8,000. Vehicles built after September 2022 have the X-ring fix from the factory.
Symptoms: Warning 'electric motor fault', limp-mode speed limitation, vehicle stranded, gears cannot be engaged - !! O-Ring Failure: Gearbox Oil Contaminates E-Motor (Recall 0ET1) from 35,000 km
The O-ring on the electric motor's primary shaft inside the DB1 multimode gearbox is poorly manufactured and allows gearbox oil to enter the e-motor internally. The gearbox remains externally dry. Recall 0ET1 covers 155,825 vehicles (Apr. 2019 – Sept. 2022). Early detection means a free seal replacement; advanced oil damage means a destroyed e-motor, costing up to €8,000.
Symptoms: Gearbox overheating warning, low gearbox fluid level without visible external leak, e-motor temperature fault codes
+ 6 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| CVT Gearbox with Rubber-Band Effect The continuously variable CVT gearbox shows jerky gear changes and delayed response times early on, especially in cold weather below 10°C. Typical rubber-band effect on acceleration. Symptoms: Judder on pull-away, delayed accelerator response, high rev level from 60,000 km | High | |
| CVT Gearbox Judders at Low Speeds The continuously variable CVT gearbox in the Arkana shows judder on pull-away and uneven power delivery particularly in mild hybrid variants. Renault carried out a gearbox update on all vehicles. Symptoms: Judder on pull-away, delayed response to accelerator, rough running at city speeds. from 30,000 km | High |
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 22 weaknesses have been documented for the Renault Arkana 1 (2021–2025) — 14 engine-related and 8 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Other, Brakes, Cooling. Considered reliable: H5H-1.3 (1.3L TCe).
Arkana (H4M-FHEV, 2021–2025) — Be Careful: Recall 0ET1: Electric Motor Primary Shaft O-Ring, Electric Motor Failure from Oil Contamination, O-Ring Failure: Gearbox Oil Contaminates E-Motor (Recall 0ET1). Power: 94 PS.
What to watch out for with the Renault Arkana? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Renault Arkana 1 have? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee