Reliability Renault Scenic: common problems, issues symptoms and faults
Automatic transmission problems: The automatic transmission on the Scenic 3 and Scenic 4 shows frequent faults from as early as 60,000-80,000 km. The CVT gearboxes are particularly affected, with jerky gear changes and loss of power.
Air conditioning not cooling: A widespread problem in all Scenic generations is the defective air conditioning system. Coolant leaks or defective compressors can occur as early as 40,000-50,000 km, which means that the air conditioning system no longer functions properly.
TCE engine timing chain: The 1.2 TCE engine and TCE 140 show weak points in the timing chain from 80,000-100,000 km. The timing chain can stretch or break, leading to costly engine damage.
Electronic breakdowns: Electronic faults are particularly common in the Scenic 3 and Scenic 4. Immobilizer problems and defective control units can occur as early as 30,000 km and result in the vehicle not starting.
Renault Scenic: Problems with the automatic transmission
The most common complaints with the Renault Scenic concern the automatic transmission, especially in the Scenic 3 automatic and Scenic 4 automatic models. The CVT transmission starts to show symptoms such as jerky gear changes, loss of power or complete failure as early as 60,000-80,000 km. The Scenic 2 automatic transmission in particular is known for its low reliability and service life. The problems often manifest themselves in unusual noises, delayed shifting reactions or the vehicle no longer shifts into certain gears. In extreme cases, the transmission can fail completely, rendering the vehicle unroadworthy.
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of the transmission. The sensitive Renault Scenic automatic gearboxes require an oil change with special CVT oil every 40,000-60,000 km. The oil level and oil quality should first be checked for diagnosis. Replacing the transmission oil and filters can help in the early stages. In the case of advanced damage, a complete transmission repair or replacement of the control unit is often necessary, which can cost between 3,000-5,000 euros.
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Parts Details
Supplementary Article / Supplementary Info Info 2:
with groove, with valves
Permissible maximum speed [km / h]:
250
Housing Colour:
black
Frequency Range [MHz]:
433
Valve stem material:
Aluminium
Code Letter:
3057
Tightening Torque [Nm]:
8
Mounting Type:
Bolted
Vehicle Equipment:
for vehicles with tyre-pressure monitoring system
Renault Scenic: Problems with the air conditioning system
Another common fault concerns the air conditioning system, with "Scenic 4 air conditioning not cooling" and "Scenic 3 air conditioning not cooling" among the most frequently reported problems. These faults occur from 40,000-50,000 km and affect all generations from the Scenic 1 to the Grand Scenic 4. The air conditioning system no longer works properly due to coolant leaks, defective compressors or clogged condensers. Typical symptoms are warm air from the air vents, unusual noises when the air conditioning system is switched on or complete failure of the system. In addition, problems such as "Scenic 3 ventilation does not work" or "Ventilation does not work" may occur if the fan is defective.
A systematic check is necessary to properly diagnose the air conditioning problems. The complex Renault Scenic air conditioning systems require a professional inspection of the entire system, including coolant level, compressor and electrical components. The solution starts with a visual inspection for leaks and checking the coolant level. A compressor replacement costs around 800-1.200 euros, while minor repairs such as seal replacements are less expensive. Regular maintenance every 2-3 years can prevent major damage.
Renault Scenic: Problems with TCE engines and timing chain
The TCE engines, especially the 1.2 TCE engine, TCE 130 and TCE 140, show considerable weaknesses in the timing chain. These problems typically occur between 80,000-120,000 km, but can occur earlier in extreme cases. The timing chain can stretch, leading to rattling noises during cold starts, or in the worst case scenario, break and cause a total engine failure. Other affected engines include the Scenic 3 1.4 TCE, which has similar symptoms. The problems are often exacerbated by inadequate maintenance or the use of incorrect oil specifications. Drivers report metallic noises from the engine compartment, especially on cold starts, and loss of power.
A professional inspection is essential if timing chain problems are suspected. The precise Renault Scenic TCE engines require regular timing chain checks every 60,000 km and the use of high-quality 5W-30 engine oil. Diagnosis is carried out by listening to the engine and checking the timing chain tension. Preventive replacement of the timing chain costs around 1.500-2,500 euros, while engine damage caused by a broken timing chain can result in repair costs of 5,000-8,000 euros. Regular oil changes every 15,000 km can significantly extend the service life of the timing chain.
Renault Scenic: Problems with electronics and starting problems
Electronic faults are among the most common Renault Scenic breakdowns, especially in newer models such as the Scenic 3 and Scenic 4. The "won't start immobilizer" problem occurs from 30,000 km and is caused by defective transponders, ignition locks or control units. Other electronic faults affect the infotainment system, the central locking system and various sensors. Typical symptoms are: the vehicle does not start, error messages in the display, defective lighting or problems with the electric window lift ("window no longer goes up"). The reliability of the electronics decreases significantly as the vehicle ages, with moisture and corrosion being common causes.
Professional maintenance is required to diagnose electronic problems. The sensitive Renault Scenic electronic components require regular software updates and checking of connectors for corrosion. The solution starts with a computerized diagnosis to identify the fault codes. Resetting the control units or replacing defective fuses often helps. In the case of more complex problems, it may be necessary to replace control units, which can cost between 500 and 1.500 euros. Regular checks of the battery and earth connections can prevent many electronic problems.
Renault Scenic: Problems with heating and ventilation
Heating and ventilation problems occur in all Scenic generations, with "heating doesn't work" and "Scenic 2 fan doesn't work" being among the most common complaints. These faults manifest themselves as early as 50,000-70,000 km due to defective blower motors, clogged heater cores or defective actuators for the air flaps. The Scenic 2 in particular is known for blower failures, while in the Scenic 3 and Grand Scenic 3 the automatic climate control often fails. Symptoms include cold air despite the heating being turned up, uneven temperature distribution or complete failure of the blower. The service life of the heating components is significantly reduced by dirt and moisture in the system.
Regular maintenance is essential for the proper functioning of the heating system. The complex Renault Scenic heating and ventilation systems require cleaning and disinfection of the ventilation ducts every 2-3 years. For diagnosis, the fuses and the blower motor should be checked first. A defective blower motor costs around 200-400 euros, while replacing the heating core can cost 600-1.000 euros. Changing air filters every 15,000-20,000 km and using air conditioning cleaners regularly can prevent most problems.
Renault Scenic: Problems with diesel engines
The diesel engines, especially the 1.5 dCi and Scenic 3 1.5 dCi, show specific weaknesses that manifest themselves in different mileage ranges. Between 60,000-100,000 km, problems often occur with the particulate filter, which becomes clogged and has to be regenerated. The 2.0 16V diesel engine shows problems with the high-pressure pump as early as 80,000 km, while injectors can typically fail between 120,000-150,000 km. Other common problems include exhaust gas recirculation (EGR valve) and turbocharger faults. Symptoms include loss of power, black smoke from the exhaust, increased fuel consumption or the vehicle will not start. The reliability of diesel engines depends heavily on driving style and maintenance.
A systematic check is crucial for the longevity of diesel engines. The demanding Renault Scenic diesel units require regular maintenance with high-quality diesel oil and timely filter changes every 20,000-30,000 km. Diagnosis is carried out by reading out the fault codes and checking the exhaust system. Regular highway driving helps with particulate filter regeneration. A defective particulate filter costs 1.500-2,500 euros, while injectors cost around 300-500 euros each. Preventive measures such as the use of diesel additives can significantly extend the service life.
Based on the experiences of Renault Scenic drivers, the following additional problems occur:
Defective power windows: power windows start to fail as early as 40,000-60,000 km, especially on the rear doors.
Problems with the handbrake: Scenic 2 handbrake malfunction can occur from 50,000 km, often due to worn cables or defective actuators.
Brake wear: The Scenic 3 brake system shows above-average wear of the brake pads from 30,000-40,000 km.
Defective fuel pump: Typically occurs between 100,000-120,000 km and leads to starting problems or loss of power.
Problems with the steering: Defective power steering pumps or steering gears can occur from 80,000-100,000 km.
Clutch wear: For manual transmissions, clutch replacement is common between 100,000-140,000 km.
Corrosion problems: Particularly with the Scenic RX4, rust problems occur on wheel arches and sills from 8-10 years.
Renault Scenic: weaknesses and strengths
Strengths
Weak points
Spacious interior
Automatic transmission problems
Flexible seat configuration
Air conditioning failures
Good overview
TCE engine timing chain problems
Comfortable suspension
Electronic malfunctions
Practical storage solutions
Heating/ventilation problems
Modern safety equipment
High repair costs
Versatility
Low reliability with high mileage
Despite its practical features and comfortable space, the Renault Scenic presents considerable challenges in terms of reliability. The most common faults concern complex systems such as the automatic gearbox, air conditioning and electronics, which can cause problems even at medium mileages. Consistent maintenance and early intervention at the first symptoms are crucial to extend the service life and avoid costly repairs.
Useful videos on this topic:
How to change air filter RENAULT SCÉNIC 2 TUTORIAL
How to change spark plug on RENAULT SCENIC RX4 TUTORIAL
11 September 2025 (updated) 
