Renault Scenic Mk3 Common Problems & Reliability
The Renault Scenic Mk3 (2009–2016) represents a significant and much-needed step forward in build quality and overall reliability compared to its predecessor. Designed to offer a more mature, refined, and dependable family MPV experience, it has successfully established itself as a sensible and popular choice on the UK used market. While it is far more robust than the Mk2, it is not entirely devoid of its own French quirks, and its long-term reliability remains heavily dependent on diligent maintenance, particularly regarding its emission-control components and suspension hardware. For prospective owners, the choice of engine is paramount, as the popular 1.5 dCi diesel requires strict adherence to cambelt replacement schedules and benefits greatly from being used for longer journeys to ensure the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) remains clear. The petrol engines, including the 1.2 TCe, can provide good performance but are sensitive to service history, with timing chain stretch being a known consideration. Common ownership irritations typically involve the electronic parking brake and auxiliary electrical systems, such as heater resistor packs and window regulators. Additionally, it remains vital to ensure that the scuttle drainage system is kept clean to prevent water from pooling and damaging cabin wiring. By prioritizing a post-2012 facelift model with a detailed service history, and by ensuring all electronic functions are rigorously tested during a thorough test drive, the Scenic Mk3 remains a highly capable, comfortable, and stylish family runabout that represents excellent value.
Select a Model Year Period
Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.
Most Common Renault Scenic Mk3 Faults & Repair Costs
Electronic parking-brake faults
The EPB module or rear caliper motors can fail or become slow to release, leaving warning messages, dragging brakes or an MOT headache.
Parking brake fault message, Handbrake slow to release, Grinding or straining noise
Heater resistor and blower-motor wiring failures
A failed resistor pack or overheated wiring connector can leave the blower stuck on one speed or dead altogether, which is a common annoyance on Mk3 Scenics.
Blower only works on one speed, No cabin fan, Burning smell from dash vents
Front suspension bush and drop-link wear
Even the improved Mk3 still wears front links, bushes and top mounts fairly regularly on UK roads, so knocks and repeat MOT advisories are common on tired examples.
Front-end clonk, Loose steering feel, Tyre wear on the front axle
1.5 dCi EGR, injector and DPF trouble
The 1.5 dCi is economical, but short-trip use and patchy servicing lead to injector-seat leaks, EGR sticking and DPF warnings on later Mk3 cars.
Limp mode, Uneven idle, Diesel smell around injectors, DPF or anti-pollution warning
Buying a used Renault Scenic Mk3? Always check for hidden finance and write-off history.
Mechanical problems are only half the battle. Over 1 in 3 UK used cars checked have unpaid finance or accident write-off records that could cause you to lose the car or thousands in value.