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Renault · Known Issues

2020 Renault Clio Problems: 2 Known Issues

2020 model year · 60+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 60+ owner reports, the 2020 Renault Clio has 2 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are TCe Turbo Coolant Leak ($200-$600 repair) and Electric Power Steering (EPS) Column Failure ($700-$1,800 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $1,800. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Clio Engine1
  • Clio Steering1
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine1
  • Steering1
  • FAQ

All 2 Known Issues

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Community reported
60 owners

On the 2012-2026 Renault Clio, the TCe turbocharged engines develop coolant leaks from the turbocharger coolant lines and the thermostat housing. The plastic coolant connectors become brittle with age and heat exposure, causing seepage and eventual failure.

This issue also affects: Renault Captur

Common Symptoms

  • Coolant loss
  • Sweet smell from engine bay
  • Low coolant warning
  • Overheating risk

How to Fix

Replace the turbo coolant lines with updated metal fittings where available. Replace the thermostat housing assembly. Pressure test the cooling system after repair to verify no further leaks.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $600

Research This Issue

Based on 60 owner reports

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence60 owner reports

On the 2005-2020 Renault Clio, the electrically assisted steering column on the Clio III (2005-2012) is a notorious failure point: UK steering specialists describe complete column failure as 'a very common fault', caused by poor ground connections to the EPS motor or internal failure of the column's motor and control unit (fault code C1608). Assistance becomes intermittently heavy — sometimes in one direction only — before failing completely, leaving the car drivable but very heavy to steer. The problem resurfaced on the Clio V: a February 2020 EU/DVSA recall covered 2019-built cars for internal failure of the steering column motor control causing loss of assistance while driving.

Common Symptoms

  • Steering warning light appearing intermittently
  • Steering goes heavy intermittently, sometimes in one direction
  • 'STOP' and steering fault message with total loss of assistance
  • Vibration through the wheel when turning

How to Fix

Clean and remake the EPS motor ground connections first; if the column itself has failed, fit a remanufactured or repaired EPS column (around £800 plus VAT and coding for a new unit; remanufactured units are cheaper). Clio V owners should check the DVSA/EU recall status and have the column replaced free by Renault if affected.

Typical repair cost:$700 - $1,800

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
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Other Renault Models

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Renault Clio problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 60+ owner reports, the 2020 Renault Clio has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: TCe Turbo Coolant Leak, Electric Power Steering (EPS) Column Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Renault Clio reliable?

The 2020 Renault Clio has 2 known issues documented across 60+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: TCe Turbo Coolant Leak and Electric Power Steering (EPS) Column Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Renault Clio problems?

Repair costs for known Renault Clio issues range from $200 to $1,800, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, TCe Turbo Coolant Leak, typically costs $200-$600 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2012-2026 Renault Clio TCe Turbo Coolant Leak?

The TCe turbocharged engines develop coolant leaks from the turbocharger coolant lines and the thermostat housing. The plastic coolant connectors become brittle with age and heat exposure, causing seepage and eventual failure. Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: high.

What is the 2005-2020 Renault Clio Electric Power Steering (EPS) Column Failure?

The electrically assisted steering column on the Clio III (2005-2012) is a notorious failure point: UK steering specialists describe complete column failure as 'a very common fault', caused by poor ground connections to the EPS motor or internal failure of the column's motor and… Repairs typically run $700-$1,800. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 60+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.