IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2013–2021 Renault Zoe

We've identified 5 known issues that can affect the 2013–2021 Renault Zoe. 3 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

5
Known Issues
3
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2013–2021 period has 3 more issues than the Renault Zoe average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Battery Charger Box (BCB) Failure

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

The BCB is responsible for managing AC charging. It is a common failure point, often caused by internal component failure or moisture ingress. A failed BCB will prevent the car from charging on AC, though DC rapid charging (if fitted) may still work.

Most affected: All Zoe models, especially Q210 and R90/R110

Estimated cost: £1,500–£2,500Affects: 2013–2021Often appears around: 40,000–80,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •"Unable to charge" message
  • •Car trips house circuit breaker when plugged in
  • •Intermittent charging at 22kW/11kW

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test the car on both a home 7kW charger and a 22kW public post
  • ✓Check for any "Check Electrical System" warnings
  • ✓Verify charging begins immediately without errors

Power Electronic Box (PEB) Failure

SeriousEngine

The PEB (Inverter) converts DC from the battery to AC for the motor. Failure symptoms often start with intermittent power loss or unusual whining noises before total vehicle immobilisation.

Most affected: All Zoe models

Estimated cost: £2,000–£4,000Affects: 2013–2022Often appears around: 50,000–90,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •"Electric Motor Failure" warning
  • •Sudden loss of power while driving
  • •High-pitched electrical whine
  • •Car stuck in "P"

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen for unusual electrical whining under heavy acceleration
  • ✓Check service history for inverter/PEB cooling fluid changes (critical every 4 years)
  • ✓Scan for DTCs related to isolation faults

12V battery electrical chaos

SeriousElectrics & Electronics

A weak 12V battery is the root of most Zoe "breakdowns". It can cause "Check Electrical System" messages, charging failures, and total vehicle immobilisation.

Most affected: All Zoe models

Estimated cost: £100–£200Affects: 2013–2024Often appears around: Any mileage; usually every 3–4 years

Typical symptoms

  • •Car refuses to start or charge
  • •Random dashboard warning lights
  • •Keyless entry failure

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Age of the 12V battery (sticker on battery)
  • ✓Voltage using a multimeter if possible
  • ✓Service history for battery replacement

Suspension (Drop links and ball joints) wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Due to the heavy battery pack, the Zoe’s front suspension components, particularly drop links and ball joints, wear faster than on a standard Clio.

Most affected: All Zoe models

Estimated cost: £120–£350Affects: 2013–2024Often appears around: 20,000–50,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Knocking noise over bumps
  • •Vague steering feel
  • •Uneven front tyre wear

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen for clunks on the test drive
  • ✓Inspect front tyres for inner edge wear
  • ✓Check MOT history for suspension advisories

Charging port and flap failure

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The locking pin for the Type 2 cable can fail, or the flap motor can seize, preventing the car from charging or releasing the cable.

Most affected: All Zoe models

Estimated cost: £150–£450Affects: 2013–2024Often appears around: 30,000–70,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Charging cable won’t lock or unlock
  • •Charging flap stuck shut
  • •Intermittent "Check Charging" message

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test the charging flap operation multiple times
  • ✓Check for loose or corroded pins in the charging socket

Buying Tips for the 2013 Renault Zoe

  • ✓Confirm if the battery is "i" (owned) or leased; a lease adds a monthly cost of £49–£110
  • ✓Check the health of the 12V battery; if it is over 3 years old, replace it immediately to avoid random electrical failures
  • ✓Listen for "milling" or whining noises from the motor, which can indicate bearing wear
  • ✓Ensure the charging cable locks correctly and the flap mechanism operates smoothly
  • ✓Inspect front suspension bushes and drop links, as the Zoe’s weight wears them out quickly
2022 Renault Zoe

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View 2013–2021 Directory

Other Renault Zoe Year Periods

2013–202120222023–2024

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