Recalls: Renault X85 Clio RS
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Renault X85 Clio RS
No recall information is available for the Renault X85 Clio RS. To search for recalls of Renault models, please visit Product Safety Recalls Australia: Renault.
Problems and faults: Renault X85 Clio RS
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
F4R engine
The Clio RS’ F4R engine is widely regarded as durable, but is sensitive to cam timing – it is recommended that cambelts be changed by mechanics familiar with this procedure. Furthermore, the cambelt and auxiliary belt need to be replaced every 115,000 kilometres or five years (whichever comes first).
The exhaust manifolds for the Renault X85 Clio RS’s F4R engine are susceptible to cracking.
Transmission
In late 2007, changes were made to the Renault X85 Clio RS’s manual transmission to overcome the problem of the gearbox crunching in second and third gears. Since the Clio RS 197 was released in Australia in August 2008, Australian-delivered vehicles do not have this problem.
The synchromesh within the manual transmission wears over time; while third and fourth gears are most commonly affected, second gear may also experience difficulties. If the synchros are worn, the only cost-effective solution is to replace transmission.
Suspension
A knocking noise from the Clio RS’ front suspension may be due to a worn lower ball joint. While Renault recommends that the entire hub carrier be replaced, it can be fixed by just replacing the ball joint.
The rear shock absorbers are susceptible to leaking.
Brakes
The four-piston Brembo brake calipers are susceptible to seizing. For this reason, it is recommended that the calipers be stripped and cleaned once a year.
Steering
The steering rack for the Clio RS is susceptible to failure, producing whining or clunking noises. To test, the driver should turn the steering wheel from lock to lock when parked or when driving at walking pace.
Interior
- Where fitted, the Recaro seats are susceptible to worn bolsters on the right hand side.
- A rattle from the rear of the Clio RS may be due to a misaligned boot hatch which allows the tailgate to move as the car is driven.
