Renault Koleos 1
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Generations
Engine Overview
The Renault Koleos 1 is available with 2 engine variants — from 131 to 200 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.
The Renault 2.0L dCi (Diesel, 150–173 PS) comes with 2 different engines: M9R (2008–2016, Be Careful) and M9R (2008–2016, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the 2.0L dCi!
The Renault 2.5L (Petrol, 171 PS) has the QR25DE (2.5L) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.
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Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| CVT gearbox fails due to coolant ingress The gearbox oil cooler and transfer case are damaged by coolant ingress. The CVT gearbox subsequently fails completely and requires a full rebuild. Symptoms: Gearbox slip, noises on acceleration, gearbox warning light from 100,000 km | High | |
| Rear differential / transfer case defective The rear differential on the Koleos I (especially 2.0 dCi 4WD) often breaks suddenly and completely. Internal damage with housing fracture. Typically occurs between 80,000 and 100,000 km. Symptoms: Loud grinding or cracking from the rear, vehicle pulling to one side, four-wheel drive fails. from 90,000 km | High |
Alternatives
BMW X4 F26
Mid-Size SUV (2014–2018)
Infiniti QX60 L50
Mid-Size SUV (2014–2020)
Nissan X-Trail T32
Mid-Size SUV (2014–2017)
Toyota Highlander XU50
Mid-Size SUV (2014–2019)
Audi SQ5 8R
Mid-Size SUV (2013–2017)
Nissan Pathfinder R52
Mid-Size SUV (2013–2020)
Known Problems and Issues
A total of 17 weaknesses have been documented for the Renault Koleos 1 (2008–2016) — 9 engine-related and 8 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Gearbox, Suspension, Rust, HVAC.
Koleos (M9R, 2008–2016) — Be Careful: Turbocharger Boost Control Valve / Failure, Injector Removal Causes Cylinder Head Damage, Coolant Loss / Seal Damage. Power: 150 PS.
Koleos (M9R, 2008–2016) — Be Careful: Turbocharger Boost Control Valve / Failure, Injector Removal Causes Cylinder Head Damage, Coolant Loss / Seal Damage. Power: 173 PS.
Koleos (QR25DE, 2008–2016) — Be Careful: CVT/X-Tronic Gearbox Wears, Catalytic Converter Substrate Failure with Engine Damage, Rear Wheel Bearing Wear. Power: 171 PS.
What to watch out for with the Renault Koleos? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Renault Koleos 1 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Renault Koleos 1? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Renault Koleos 1 engine is the most fun? +
Is the Renault Koleos 1 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Renault Koleos 1? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee