IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2023 Renault Austral

Launched in 2023 on the CMF-CD platform, the Austral replaced the Kadjar as Renault's core C-SUV, sold in the UK exclusively with a 197bhp E-Tech full hybrid powertrain and Google-based OpenR Link infotainment.

What changed for 2023

  • •UK launch of C-segment SUV replacing the Kadjar, built on the advanced CMF-CD modular architecture
  • •Exclusive UK powertrain: 197bhp E-Tech full hybrid pairing a 1.2-litre turbo 3-cylinder with twin electric motors
  • •Innovative clutchless multimode dog-ring automatic transmission managing petrol and electric drives
  • •OpenR Link digital cockpit featuring twin 12-inch screens powered by Google Android Automotive OS
  • •Optional 4Control Advanced four-wheel steering providing a 10.1-metre urban turning circle on top trims

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Uneven front tyre shoulder scrubbing caused by instant electric motor torque and heavy hybrid kerb weight
  • !Advisories for light surface corrosion on rear brake discs from heavy reliance on regenerative deceleration
  • !Windscreen stone chips in the critical forward-facing ADAS sensor aperture
5
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
3
Minor

All Known Issues

E-Tech hybrid system "Impossible Restart"

SeriousEngine

Some owners report a total loss of power with an "Impossible Restart" message on the dash, often related to 12V battery regulation or hybrid control software.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£800 (mostly warranty)
Warning Signs:

Car will not start, "Check Electrical System" warning, 12V battery backup warning

What to Inspect:
  • Check dealer service history for hybrid software updates
  • Ensure 12V battery health
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

E-Tech hybrid hesitation and jerky acceleration

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The 1.2-litre E-Tech full hybrid can suffer from throttle lag or jerky movement when switching between electric and petrol modes, particularly from standstill or at low speeds. Gearbox software calibration issues are the usual cause.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£400 (software update)
Warning Signs:

Delay in throttle response, Jerky movement at low speed, Hesitation when pulling away, Inconsistent power delivery between modes

What to Inspect:
  • Test the car in stop-start traffic and from standstill
  • Check for the latest software calibration updates
  • Drive it fully cold and fully warm to see both modes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

OpenR Link infotainment crashes

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The Google-backed touchscreen is advanced but can freeze, lag, or go black, especially after a software update or in extreme temperatures.

Est. Repair Cost: £0 (Warranty fix)
Warning Signs:

Screen freezes or reboots, Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto disconnects, GPS lag

What to Inspect:
  • Test the screen responsiveness
  • Check for the latest software version in the settings
  • Ensure Bluetooth pairing is stable
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Driver-assist false alerts and sensor errors

MinorElectrics & Electronics

With adaptive cruise, blind-spot assist and 360-degree cameras, the Austral relies heavily on sensors that can produce false warnings or random system shutoffs when dirty, misaligned or running outdated software.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£200 (cleaning or software update)
Warning Signs:

False collision warnings, Blind-spot system randomly activates, 360 camera image glitches or disappears, Lane-keep assist steers incorrectly

What to Inspect:
  • Clean all camera lenses and radar sensors
  • Check for the latest ADAS software updates
  • Test each driver-assist system individually during a drive
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Rear suspension knocking and creaking

MinorSuspension & Chassis

Some owners report creaking or knocking sounds from the rear suspension, particularly over speed bumps or uneven surfaces. Worn bushes or inadequate factory lubrication on rear links are the typical culprits.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£350
Warning Signs:

Creaking over speed bumps, Knocking from rear on rough roads, Squeaking during low-speed manoeuvres

What to Inspect:
  • Drive over speed bumps and rough surfaces
  • Inspect rear suspension links and bushes
  • Check MOT history for suspension advisories
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2023 Renault Austral

  • Verify that all dealership software updates for the multimode gearbox and OpenR Link system have been applied
  • Test drive thoroughly across 20-40mph transitions to ensure the hybrid dog-clutch shifts cleanly without hesitation
  • Check that the auxiliary 12V battery is healthy and that no transient 'Check Hybrid System' warnings appear on startup
2024
Check a 2023 Renault Austral by Registration