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 must start the car within 30 seconds of unlocking the door. You will need to lock the car again, then unlock it, and turn the ignition key before the 30 seconds expire.
Difficulty level
Heater problems
Problem:
It is known that the Renault Scenic has problems with the heating system. Some settings on the heating control may not function, or you might discover that they do not blow 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 find 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 footwells, you have a leak. The accumulation of debris and leaves in the plenum chamber beneath the front windscreen would have caused this issue.
Solution:
These vehicles have an issue with the blocked plenum chamber. Shine a torch through the mesh cover to identify the blockage, then remove the debris to stop the leak. Clean the front carpets to eliminate smells once you've cleared the blockage from the drain.
Difficulty level
Rear electric windows problems
Problem:
This is a common issue on the Scenic. If you notice that the windows are not moving up or down as smoothly as they should, you have a problem with the window regulator.
Solution:
There's a way to fix this yourself and save some money. Otherwise, you'll need to buy a new regulator, which isn't 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 chafing noise coming from the front suspension when driving over rough surfaces or bumps. The issue lies with the front anti-roll bar bushes.
Solution:
To resolve this issue, you will need to fit new front anti-roll bar bushes. You can save money on a quality second-hand replacement part by using our parts finder.
Difficulty level
Anti Roll Bar Bush
Poor idling and performance
Problem:
If you notice that your Scenic struggles when idling and isn’t performing as it should, you most likely have issues with the ignition coils.
Solution:
You will need to replace the faulty coil. The recommendation is to replace 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 rises in pitch as you go faster.
Solution:
Your alternator belt has probably snapped due to excessive wear and is now caught in the crankshaft pulley. Address this problem promptly, as it could cause complete top-end failure. You will definitely need a new alternator belt, but depending on any additional damage, you might also have to order a new crankshaft pulley and tensioners from our parts list.
Difficulty level
Alternator
Rough Running
Problem:
The car feels very rough to drive, and the power levels are inconsistent.
Solution:
The EGR valve frequently causes problems on the Scenic and can lead to expensive consequences if ignored. If the valve sticks shut, it could cause the engine to overheat or even explode, while a stuck open valve can result in turbo failure. Many mechanics mistake this issue for a faulty turbocharger, but simply consult our parts list for a replacement EGR valve to fix the problem.
Difficulty level
EGR Valve
Check Injection Light
Problem:
The 'check injection' light is illuminated on your dashboard, especially during a cold start.
Solution:
This will just be a glow plug failure. We always keep these in stock, and you can easily order and fit them yourself.
Difficulty level
Glow Plug
Water Damage
Problem:
Your 1990s Scenic exhibits visible water damage on the seats and flooring inside.
Solution:
It is very common to see this, especially in Scenics built in the 90s. Water enters the car due to a kink in the drainage channels around the sunroof. Ensure you keep these channels free of debris, and order replacement seats from us if the damage becomes too severe. You may also find that if your Scenic doesn't start, the water could have damaged the ECU housed in the offside wing, which will then need to be completely replaced.
Difficulty level
Set Of Seats
Front Seats Not Locking
Problem:
The front seats are hard to adjust and don't always lock securely.
Solution:
Inspect the rear of your seat's back frame, as it is highly probable that the welding has not been done properly. You will 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 sometimes experience a starting fault.
Solution:
If your Scenic was manufactured between 2003 and 2009, it is very likely that this issue is caused by a faulty crankshaft position sensor. Replacing it is straightforward, and you can purchase a new one directly from our online shop.
Difficulty level
Crankshaft Sensor
Car Alarm Going Off
Problem:
The car alarm keeps going off for no apparent reason.
Solution:
The good news is that this problem is simply caused by a faulty sensor, and we always have sensors for the Scenic available to order. The bad news is that you'll need to figure out which sensor is faulty. It's usually best to take the car to a dealer who can perform a diagnostic check for you, but you can easily replace the sensor yourself once you identify the issue.
Difficulty level
Squealing Brakes
Problem:
The brakes squeal when applied.
Solution:
The Scenic's brake pads wear out very quickly. Order some more durable ones from our drop-down menu for the Scenic, and the noise will stop.
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 resistor. It's likely one of these is faulty, and you can order both from our store.
Difficulty level
Heater Blower Fan Motor
Fuel Leak
Problem:
You've noticed a fuel leak due to visible oil spots or puddles when the car has been stationary.
Solution:
If your Scenic was built between September 2018 and May 2019, it is very likely that the issue is caused by internal corrosion in the fuel hose. Order a new fuel supply pipe from our parts list and replace it easily yourself.
Difficulty level
Fuel Hose