CKFCar Known Faults
SevereAffected: 2012-201970,000–130,000 miles

Renault Clio Mk4 0.9 TCe 90bhp — Starter Motor Solenoid / Brush Wear

The starter motor wears out internally. This is particularly common on vehicles equipped with Stop/Start systems.

Severity

Severe

DIY Difficulty

Moderate

Est. Cost

£150–£350

OBD Codes

None

Symptoms

  • A single loud 'click' when turning the key, but engine doesn't crank
  • Engine cranks very slowly despite a fully charged battery
  • Whirring or grinding noise after the engine starts

Root Cause

The carbon brushes inside the motor wear down to the copper wiring, or the contacts inside the solenoid burn out from repeated arcing.

How To Fix

  1. Confirm battery voltage is strong under load (to rule out a dead battery).
  2. Replace the starter motor unit.
  3. Ensure main earth straps from engine block to chassis are clean and tight.
  4. Cost: £150-350

Estimated Repair Costs

Repair OptionEst. Cost (GBP)
DIY (parts only)£60–£140
Independent Garage£150–£350
Main Dealership£240–£560

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.