Renault Espace Common Problems and Solutions
Heater problems
Problem:
If you have noticed that the heater on your Espace is not blowing out hot air and/or there is a wet patch on the carpets in the front foot well, you most likely have a faulty heater matrix.
Solution:
You will need to replace the heater matrix to sort out this problem. You can save money on a used, quality second-hand heater matrix with us.
Difficulty level
Heater Matrix
Oil sump leaking
Problem:
Underneath the oil sump, it is quite common for the oil to be weeping out around the main bolts.
Solution:
You will need to replace the oil sump gasket to resolve this issue. You can save money on a quality second hand oil sump gasket using our parts finder.
Difficulty level
Oil Sump Gasket
Doors stiff to open
Problem:
On the Espace it is a common problem for the doors to be a bit stiff to open. The problem lies with the worn rubber trim catching, which in turn leads to the trim wearing away.
Solution:
You will need to replace the rubber trim to solve this problem.
Difficulty level
Electrical problems
Problem:
It is quite common for these vehicles to have several different issues with the electrics. A warning light should come on the dashboard to indicate what the exact fault is.
Solution:
Have a diagnostic check run on your vehicle to identify the exact nature of the fault, and take the relevant action.
Difficulty level
Electric parking brake failure
Problem:
On models that have an electric handbrake, it is common for the wiring to fail or it could be a software problem. You may notice that it is not coming on when you press the stop button or is not de-activating properly when you pull away.
Solution:
Have it checked over to identify exactly what is causing the failure, and then you will need to either fix the wiring problem, or have the software updated.
Difficulty level
EGR Valves problem
Problem:
It is a well-known problem for the diesel versions to have problems with the EGR Valves. If you notice that your vehicle has a lack of power and struggles accelerating at low speeds, it is most likely a faulty EGR Valve. This will also cause heavy oil consumption.
Solution:
Have someone check over the vehicle, getting a diagnostic check done. If this is the cause, you can try cleaning out, but if this does not work you will need to replace the EGR Valve. Watch the video below to see how to clean out an EGR valve.
Difficulty level
EGR Valve
Hot Liquid Hitting Occupants
Problem:
There is a scalding hot liquid coming from the heater, injuring occupants.
Solution:
This caused a serious recall by Renault, and it’s being caused by hot coolant leaking from the heater matrix. It tends to come out on the passenger side, but the wide spray can affect everyone in the car. A modified heater matrix was released by Renault, which you can order directly from us. It’s a fiddly installation job but should only take a few minutes.
Difficulty level
Heater Matrix
Digital Speedometer Malfunction
Problem:
The speedometer is acting erratically and may stop working completely.
Solution:
Although you can find a new digital speedometer easily on our parts list, this can be quite a challenging fix to do yourself. The speedo on the Espace is one of the most commonly reported faults, and you're going to need to have to remove the whole dashboard to install a new one. There are online guides that will walk you through the process, but you’re going to need to set aside time and patience.
Difficulty level
Speedometer
Spare Wheel Has Fallen Off
Problem:
Your spare wheel has fallen off.
Solution:
This is caused by the spare wheel winch cable, which has either seized or broken completely. Order a modified spare wheel support cross member from our parts list, as well as a new winch unit. Of course, if you lost your spare wheel when it fell off, we can also deliver a new one of those.
Difficulty level
Cross Member
Odd Smell and Smoke From Dashboard
Problem:
There is an unusual smell coming from the dashboard vents, and this may be accompanied by smoke.
Solution:
This is a software fault that’s affecting your AC configuration. You’ll need to head to a Renault dealer for software reprogramming.
Difficulty level
