Renault Scenic III (JZ) (2009 – 2016)

Reliability score : 7.2/10

The Renault Scénic III (codename JZ) marks a major turning point for the diamond-brand manufacturer. After a Scénic II plagued by electronic and mechanical problems, this third generation was designed with a drastic specification focused on reliability. Available in short (5-seater) and Grand Scénic (5 or 7-seater) versions, it offers first-class road handling, royal comfort, and exemplary modularity (individual removable seats). It underwent two facelifts (Phase 2 in 2012, Phase 3 in 2013). In the used car market, petrol versions are highly sought after due to the decline of diesel, but beware: the petrol range houses both one of the most robust engines of its generation and one of the worst recent industrial scandals (the 1.2 TCe).

✅ Strengths

Overall reliability greatly improved compared to the Scénic II
Exceptional robustness of the 1.6 16v (petrol) and 2.0 dCi (diesel) engines
Dynamic and safe road handling
Spaciousness, brightness, and modularity (independent seats)
Decent finish quality and material aging
Original 1.6 16v Bioethanol (E85) version very economical to use

⚠️ Weaknesses

The 1.2 TCe (H5F) engine is a ticking time bomb (engine failure)
High fuel consumption of 1.4 TCe and 2.0 16v petrol engines
Significant vehicle weight (penalizes smaller engines)
Heavy rear seats to handle and remove (no retractable flat floor)
R-Link multimedia system (Phase 3) sometimes slow and buggy
EDC dual-clutch automatic gearbox sometimes temperamental on early model years

🎯 Verdict

The Renault Scénic III is an excellent family minivan that has managed to redeem its predecessor in terms of overall reliability. However, as a used petrol car, it's a two-faced vehicle. If you opt for the old but valiant 1.6 16v (ideally in E85 version) or the 2.0 16v, you are buying an almost indestructible car. The 1.4 TCe is a good compromise despite its thirst. On the other hand, you must avoid the 1.2 TCe (115 and 130 hp) like the plague. This engine suffers from a major design flaw leading to excessive oil consumption and engine failure, with no guaranteed manufacturer support today. Buy with full knowledge, meticulously checking the engine code (K4M or H4J = YES; H5F = NO).

Common issues

Consommation excessive d'huile et usure prématurée du moteur (1.2 TCe H5F) High

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 3 000 – 6 000 € (peut nécessiter un échange moteur)

Vérifier l'historique d'entretien et le niveau d'huile très régulièrement.

Problèmes de chaîne de distribution (1.2 TCe H5F) High

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 1 000 – 2 500 € (si pas de casse moteur)

Écouter les bruits anormaux au démarrage et vérifier l'historique des rappels.

Défaillance des bobines d'allumage (tous moteurs essence) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 150 – 300 €

Attention aux ratés moteur ou voyant d'anomalie, remplacement simple.

Bruit de poulie de déphaseur d'arbre à cames (1.6 16V K4M) Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 400 – 800 € (souvent avec la courroie de distribution)

Écouter un claquement au démarrage à froid, à faire vérifier rapidement.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing belt	£500 – 1 000 (pour 1.6 16V)
Clutch	£750 – 1 400
Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

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