Renault Scenic
Widely used 1.2 TCe four-cylinder with a structural problem: the oil pump intermittently under-supplies the timing chain tensioner, leading to chain rattle, camshaft adjuster wear and increased oil consumption. Consumption over 1 l/1,000 km is not uncommon. Always check oil consumption before purchase and listen for chain noise.
TCe in the Van
115 hp 1.2 TCe — decent for the Scenic, but the timing chain issue overshadows everything.
Engine Weaknesses 5
The most well-known H5F problem: the timing chain stretches significantly — especially with short-trip use or missed oil changes — potentially causing rattling and engine damage from 70,000–100,000 km. Oil dilution from short trips accelerates wear.
Symptoms: Rattling on cold start, clattering on load changes, camshaft control fault code, engine damage
The H5F turbocharger suffers from oil supply problems, worsened by oil dilution from short trips and extended change intervals. Turbo damage is expensive.
Symptoms: Whistling from the turbo, blue smoke, power loss, no boost build-up
The electric water pump in the H5F hybrid derivatives (H5F index 600/601 in Austral/Espace) fails systematically in early build years, risking overheating and engine damage. Coolant losses are also known in the standard H5F.
Symptoms: Overheating warning, falling coolant level, coolant loss without visible leak
The H5F consumes increasing amounts of oil over its service life, often through worn piston rings or leaking valve stem seals. Values of 0.5–1.5 litres per 1,000 km are known from forum reports.
Symptoms: Oil level visibly drops between changes, blue smoke on acceleration
Faulty camshaft sensors and actuator solenoids trigger starting problems and fault codes. When the timing chain has stretched the symptoms worsen as valve timing drifts out of spec.
Symptoms: Hard starting, camshaft DTC fault, rough running
Vehicle Weaknesses 7
Blocked bodywork drainage channels let water into the interior and damage the wiring harness under the driver's seat. Numerous electrical failures result. Regular inspection of drains recommended.
A defective relay 1155 in the left A-pillar disables the power supply of several control units. Power steering, air conditioning, radio, navigation and boot release can all fail simultaneously.
Springs, dampers and steering joints fail above-average on the Scenic III at vehicle inspections. Typical suspension problem that occurs in the mid-mileage range.
Brake components on the Scenic III wear significantly faster after about 7 years. MOT data confirm significantly higher defect rates with age. Rear brake calipers tend to seize.
After about 5 years, underbody corrosion increases on the Scenic III. Brake lines and the exhaust are preferred rust spots. Regular underbody inspection is recommended.
The chrome strip on the tailgate rubs through the zinc coating and causes rust underneath. Renault has been aware of the defect since 2011 but hasn't resolved it structurally. Repairs often only last around one year.
Rear window regulators fail. Lighting fails regularly within 4 years. Typical electronics problems of the range with moisture as a frequent cause.
Reports & Tests
Failed springs and dampers are a recurring weakness. Steering joints are regularly flagged. Front lighting is too often defective; older vehicles show increased brake disc wear.
