CKFCar Known Faults
SevereAffected: 2012-201960,000–120,000 miles

Renault Clio Mk4 0.9 TCe 90bhp — Suspension Coil Spring Snapping

A very common MOT failure in the UK. Suspension coil springs corrode and snap, usually near the bottom pigtail.

Severity

Severe

DIY Difficulty

Hard

Est. Cost

£150–£300

OBD Codes

None

Component Diagram

Suspension

Typical layout and location for the Suspension assembly.

Suspension diagram
Reference Illustration

Symptoms

  • Loud 'twang' or bang when turning the steering wheel at low speeds
  • Car sits noticeably lower on one side
  • Grating noise over bumps

Root Cause

The protective coating on the steel spring chips from stone impacts. Salt water corrodes the exposed steel, weakening the spring until it fractures under load.

How To Fix

  1. Visually inspect all four springs for fractures at the very bottom coil.
  2. Always replace coil springs in pairs across an axle to maintain handling balance.
  3. Cost: £150-300 per pair at an independent garage.

Estimated Repair Costs

Repair OptionEst. Cost (GBP)
DIY (parts only)£60–£120
Independent Garage£150–£300
Main Dealership£240–£480

Other Faults on This Variant

Thermostat Housing Leak

Severe
2012-201940,000–80,000 miles£150–£200

The plastic thermostat housing on the 0.9 TCe warps and cracks, leading to a rapid loss of engine coolant and severe overheating risk.

Timing Chain Stretch and Rattle

Severe
2012-201950,000–90,000 miles£600–£800

The 0.9 TCe 3-cylinder engine suffers from premature timing chain stretch, causing an aggressive rattle and potentially fatal engine timing slip.

VVT Solenoid Oil Leak

Minor
2012-201950,000–100,000 miles£10–£80

The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid located on the top of the cylinder head leaks oil, which runs down the front of the engine.

Disclaimer: Repair cost estimates are indicative and based on community data. Always get a quote from a qualified mechanic before proceeding with any repair.