Renault Kadjar I (HFE) (2015 – 2022)

Reliability score : 7.2/10

The Renault Kadjar (first generation, internal code HFE) is a compact SUV based on the Renault-Nissan Alliance CMF-C/D platform, shared with the Nissan Qashqai II. Launched in 2015, it positions itself as a more family-friendly and comfortable alternative to the Mégane. While it excels in suspension comfort and interior space, its first phase suffered from a finish that lagged behind the competition (notably the Peugeot 3008) and a temperamental R-Link 2 multimedia system. The late 2018 facelift (Phase 2) corrected these issues with improved perceived quality, new bumpers, and especially the introduction of the very successful 1.3 TCe petrol engine (developed with Mercedes-Benz) which replaces the notoriously problematic 1.2 TCe. Overall, the Kadjar is a rational vehicle, whose reliability

✅ Strengths

Excellent suspension comfort, ideal for long journeys
Generous interior space and boot volume (472 liters)
Very successful, powerful, and reliable 1.3 TCe engine (Phase 2)
Fuel consumption of diesel engines (1.5 dCi) among the best in its category
Used car prices often more attractive than the Peugeot 3008 or VW Tiguan

⚠️ Weaknesses

Catastrophic reliability of the 1.2 TCe 130 petrol engine (Phase 1)
Disappointing interior finish and plastic quality on Phase 1 (2015-2018)
R-Link 2 multimedia system slow, not very ergonomic, and prone to bugs
Imperfect sound insulation at high speeds (wind noise)
EDC automatic gearbox sometimes causes jerks at low speeds

🎯 Verdict

The Renault Kadjar is an SUV with two faces. Phase 1 (2015-2018) with the 1.2 TCe petrol engine is to be absolutely avoided due to major engine failure risks. However, Phase 2 (from late 2018 onwards) equipped with the 1.3 TCe engine is an excellent used car deal: it offers high-level reliability, superior driving pleasure, and an improved finish, all at prices often lower than its direct competitors. In diesel, the 1.5 dCi remains a safe bet for high-mileage drivers, regardless of the year.

Common issues

Consommation d'huile excessive et usure prématurée de la chaîne de distribution (moteur 1.2 TCe) High

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 2 500 – 5 000 € (peut aller jusqu'au remplacement moteur)

Privilégier le 1.3 TCe. Pour le 1.2 TCe, vérifier historique et niveau d'huile régulièrement.

Dysfonctionnements du système d'infodivertissement R-Link 2 (bugs, lenteurs, écran figé) Medium

🔧 Dès l'achat, plus fréquent après 2-3 ans

💶 0 € (mise à jour logicielle) – 800 € (remplacement unité)

S'assurer que le système est à jour et tester toutes les fonctions.

Usure prématurée des silentblocs/rotules de suspension avant Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 250 – 500 € par essieu

Écouter les bruits de claquement ou grincement à basse vitesse.

Problèmes de capteurs électroniques (ex: capteur PMH, capteur de pression de pneus) Low

🔧 Variable, souvent après 5 ans ou 100 000 km

💶 100 – 350 €

Vérifier l'absence de voyants moteur ou d'anomalies au tableau de bord.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing chain	£650 – 1 200 (si remplacement nécessaire)
Clutch	£750 – 1 400
Complete brakes	£280 – 550
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.