Renault Espace
Exotic 3.0-litre V6 diesel with piezo injectors — rarely seen in the Espace and expensive to maintain with age. EGR problems and boost weakness are known from forums; repair costs when something fails are significant. Only recommended for enthusiasts with good workshop access.
V6 Diesel Cruiser
3.0 V6 dCi with 181 hp — a refined diesel in the Espace. Effortless cruising on the motorway.
Engine Weaknesses 5
Identical weakness to the V9X: the cylinder liners of the 3.0 V6 dCi in the Vel Satis drop due to thermal loading. Coolant enters the engine — catastrophic engine failure is the consequence.
Symptoms: Heavy coolant loss, white smoke, engine overheating
The oil control rings settle as with all V9X-based units from around 100,000 km. In the Vel Satis with its high kerb weight this is especially critical as the engine is under greater load.
Symptoms: Increased oil consumption, blue smoke, decreasing engine power
The timing chains stretch from 100,000–150,000 km. In the Vel Satis with its heavy body the drivetrain is under sustained high load. Engine removal is mandatory for the replacement and very costly.
Symptoms: Rattling on cold start, engine warning light, chain noise
Like all V9X derivatives the EGR valve clogs quickly and is almost impossible to clean out. For the rare Vel Satis replacement parts are hard to source, driving repair costs even higher.
Symptoms: Power loss, rough idle, increased fuel consumption
The intercooler on the 3.0 V6 dCi is short-lived. For the Vel Satis as a rare vehicle replacement parts are hard and expensive to source, turning even minor faults into major cost problems.
Symptoms: Power loss under acceleration, increased fuel consumption
Vehicle Weaknesses 8
Ball joints, steering joints and control arms are not adequately dimensioned for the high vehicle weight and wear early. Control arms on the front axle can break in extreme cases.
Due to the high vehicle mass, brake discs and pads wear significantly faster than on other vehicles. Missing backing plates further accelerate corrosion.
Glass and panoramic roofs on the Espace IV lose their seal with age. Water enters the interior, particularly at the drains and guide rails.
Weak batteries, defective alternators and defective starter motors are documented weak points on the Espace IV in the electrical system, leading to starting problems.
The electric motors of the active rear wheel steering (on 4Control models) fail due to defects. Early models were particularly affected before Renault changed the supplier.
The high vehicle weight of the Espace IV considerably accelerates wear on control arm bushings, tie rod ends and wheel bearings. MOT defects due to excessive play are frequent.
Glass and panoramic roofs on the Espace IV lose their seal with age. Water enters the interior, particularly at the drains and guide rails.
The heavy Espace IV (up to approx. 2,200 kg) puts heavy stress on brake discs and pads. Missing brake dust shields accelerate disc corrosion. Frequent replacement intervals should be planned for.
