Renault Scenic IV (J95) (2016 – 2022)

Reliability score : 6.8/10

The Renault Scénic IV (codename J95 for the short version, R95 for the Grand Scénic) marks a radical break from its predecessors. To counter the hegemony of SUVs, Renault transformed its compact MPV into a crossover-designed vehicle, characterized by increased ground clearance, a steeply raked windscreen, and, uniquely in the segment, 20-inch wheels as standard on all trim levels (with an atypical tire size of 195/55 R20). While the style gains immensely, rear passenger space and modularity (sliding 2/3-1/3 bench seat instead of individual seats) regress compared to the Scénic III. Mechanically, the Scénic IV's career is split into two: an initial period marred by the infamous 1.2 TCe petrol engine ('Motorgate' scandal), and a second period transformed by the excellent 1.3 TCe developed wi

✅ Strengths

Very successful design, dynamic crossover look
Remarkable suspension comfort despite 20-inch wheels
Pleasure and reliability of the 1.3 TCe petrol engine (from 2018)
'One-Touch' modularity (seat folding from the screen or boot)
Sound and safe road handling
Generous boot volume (especially on Grand Scénic)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Disastrous reliability of the 1.2 TCe petrol engine (2016-2018)
Recurring electronic bugs on the R-Link 2 multimedia system (especially before 2018)
Replacement cost of 195/55 R20 tires (rare and expensive at launch, although prices have decreased)
Reduced rear passenger space compared to the Scénic III
Disappearance of individual rear seats in favor of a 2/3-1/3 bench
Aerodynamic wind noise on the highway (windscreen pillars)

🎯 Verdict

The Renault Scénic IV is a two-faced vehicle. If you're looking for a petrol model, the rule is simple and non-negotiable: avoid the 1.2 TCe (115/130 hp) produced until 2018, whose design flaws can lead to engine failure. In contrast, the 1.3 TCe (115/140/160 hp) is highly recommended: it is powerful, economical, and very reliable. On the diesel side, the 1.5 dCi and 1.7 Blue dCi units are good companions for high-mileage drivers. Opt for a post-2018 model (Intens or Initiale Paris trim): you will benefit from the 1.3 TCe engine, a more reliable R-Link 2 system with CarPlay/Android Auto, and early fixes for the running gear.

Common issues

Problèmes moteur 1.2 TCe (consommation d'huile excessive, chaîne de distribution, turbo) High

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

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

Pour les modèles avant 2018, vérifier l'historique d'entretien et la consommation d'huile.

Dysfonctionnements du système multimédia R-Link 2 Medium

🔧 Dès 20 000 km

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

Tester toutes les fonctions (GPS, Bluetooth, radio) avant l'achat.

Usure prématurée des composants de suspension avant (rotules, silent-blocs, amortisseurs) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 400 – 900 €

Écouter attentivement les bruits de suspension sur routes dégradées.

Problèmes de boîte de vitesses automatique EDC (double embrayage) High

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 1 500 – 3 000 € (mécatronique, embrayages)

Tester la fluidité des passages de vitesses à froid et à chaud, sans à-coups.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing chain	£650 – 1 200 (si remplacement nécessaire)
Clutch	£750 – 1 500 (manual or EDC)
Complete brakes	£220 – 480
Estimated annual budget	£550 – 1 100

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