Renault Scenic Common Problems and Solutions
Engine Won't Turn
Problem:
The car won't start no matter how many times you turn the key, and there are no obvious problems.
Solution:
This is actually a security feature in the Scenics built between '97 and '99. You have to start the car within 30 seconds of unlocking the car door. You'll have to lock the car again and then unlock it, then turn the ignition key before the 30 seconds is up.
Difficulty level
Heater problems
Problem:
It is known on the Renault Scenic to have issues with the heating system. Some of the settings on the heating control may not work or you may find that they are not blowing out hot air; this is due to a fault with the heater resistor.
Solution:
You can save money by fixing the problem yourself. Search our parts finder to get quality replacement parts for your solution. Have a look at the video below:
Difficulty level
Heater Resistor
Water in front footwells
Problem:
If you have noticed water in the front foot wells, you have a leak coming in. The build up of debris and leaves in the plenum chamber underneath the front windscreen would have caused this problem.
Solution:
These vehicles have a problem with the blocked plenum chamber. Shine a torch through the mesh cover to see the blockage and then you will have to remove the debris to stop the leaking. Give the front carpets a clean to stop them smelling once you have removed the blockage from the drain.
Difficulty level
Rear electric windows problems
Problem:
This is a common problem on the Scenic. If you have found that the windows are not moving up nor down as smoothly as they should, you have a problem with the window regulator.
Solution:
There is a way to fix this for yourself, and save yourself a small fortune. Otherwise you have to buy a new regulator which is not cheap. Check out this video below:
Difficulty level
Window Regulator Mechanism
Front Suspension problem
Problem:
On these cars, it is common to hear a squeaking or chaffing sound coming from the front suspension when driving over rough surfaces or bumps. The problem is with the front anti-roll bar bushes.
Solution:
To fix this problem you will need to fit new front anti-roll bar bushes. You can save money on a quality second hand replacement part using our parts finder.
Difficulty level
Anti Roll Bar Bush
Poor idling and performance
Problem:
If you have noticed that your Scenic has problems when idling and that it is not performing as well as it should, you most likely have problems with the ignition coils.
Solution:
You will need to replace the faulty coil. The recommendation is to change all coils at the same time.
Difficulty level
Ignition Coil
Whistling Noise From Engine
Problem:
You can hear a whistling sound coming from the engine while you drive, and it increases in pitch as you drive faster.
Solution:
Your alternator belt has probably snapped after becoming too worn out and is now caught up in the crankshaft pulley. Tackle this issue immediately because it will lead to eventual top-end failure. You'll certainly need a replacement alternator belt, but you may also need to order a new crankshaft pulley and tensioners from our parts list depending on any additional damage.
Difficulty level
Alternator
Rough Running
Problem:
The car feels very rough to drive, and there are inconsistent power levels.
Solution:
The EGR valve is a common issue on the Scenic, and it can have expensive consequences if ignored. If the valve is stuck in the closed position, then the engine might explode, and if it's stuck in the open position, then the turbo will fail. It's common to find that mechanics will diagnose this issue as a problem with the turbocharger, but browse our parts list for a replacement EGR valve, and the problem will be solved.
Difficulty level
EGR Valve
Check Injection Light
Problem:
The 'check injection' light is illuminated on your dashboard, particularly during a cold start.
Solution:
This will just be a heater plug (glow plug) failure. We always have these in stock, and you can order and install these yourself very easily.
Difficulty level
Glow Plug
Water Damage
Problem:
Your 1990s Scenic has visible signs of water damage on the seats and flooring on the inside.
Solution:
This is very common to see, especially in Scenics built in the 90s. The water is getting into the car thanks to a kink in the drainage channels around the sunroof. Make sure that you keep these clean of debris, and order replacement seats from us if the damage is intolerable. You may also find that if your Scenic doesn't start, then the water may have caused damage to the ECU that's housed in the offside wing, which will need to be completely replaced.
Difficulty level
Set Of Seats
Front Seats Not Locking
Problem:
The front seats are difficult to adjust, and they don't always lock into place.
Solution:
Check the back of your seat's back frame, as it's very likely that the welding has not been carried out correctly. You're going to need to install a new seat back frame on the affected seats, which you can order from us and have delivered.
Difficulty level
Engine Cutting Out
Problem:
The engine is cutting out intermittently, and you have the occasional start fault.
Solution:
If your Scenic was built between 2003 and 2009, then it's very likely that this is caused by a faulty crankshaft position sensor. This is very easy to replace, and you can buy a new one directly from our online store.
Difficulty level
Crankshaft Sensor
Car Alarm Going Off
Problem:
The car alarm keeps going off for no obvious reason.
Solution:
The good news is that this is going to be caused by nothing more than a faulty sensor, and we always have sensors for the Scenic available to order. The bad news is that you're going to have to work out which sensor is faulty. It's usually best to take the car to a dealer who can carry out a diagnostic check for you, but you can easily replace the sensor yourself once you know the issue.
Difficulty level
Squealing Brakes
Problem:
The brakes make a squealing noise when applied.
Solution:
The Scenic goes through brake pads very quickly. Order some tougher ones from our drop-down menu for the Scenic, and the noise will go.
Difficulty level
Brake Pads
No Air From Blowers
Problem:
There is no hot or cold air coming from the blowers.
Solution:
Check your heater motor and your resistor. It's going to be one of those that are faulty, and you can order both from our store.
Difficulty level
Heater Blower Fan Motor
Fuel Leak
Problem:
You've spotted a fuel leak with visible spots or puddles of oil when the car has been standing in one place.
Solution:
If your Scenic was built between September 2018 and May 2019 then it's very likely that this is being caused by internal aggression in the fuel hose. Order a new fuel supply pipe from our parts list and easily replace it yourself.
Difficulty level
Fuel Hose
