29th Feb 2004, 19:46
I bought a clio dynamique 8 months ago and I've had various problems (including one tonight at 2am!). The engine cut out when I was driving at 50mph - steering locked while I was slowing down and I almost crashed.
Anyway, I've had several punctures which I don't blame on renault obviously, but when you have one every month you begin to wonder...
The security sensor came off 2 days after I received the car and was 'floating' around the engine when I found it. Took the car back the next day. It was repaired in 2 minutes, but it fell off again about 2 months down the line.
The renault dealership which I bought the car from made a mistake in the administration dept. I received a letter saying that my car was going to be repossessed within 7 days. They had given the wrong direct debit details to the bank. This was not a pleasant experience which was made worse by the lack of an apology from anybody that I spoke to while clearing up the matter.
I needed a new steering rack after 5 months which was by no fault of my own - the renault mechanic just explained that "these things happen".
I have been extremely dissatisfied with my 1.2 Dynamique. It is a gorgeous car inside and out and I have no complaint about the look of the car, but the problems I have had will make me think twice about recommending anybody to buy one.
I would appreciate any opinions from fellow owners. Thanks.
15th Apr 2004, 04:11
I've owned my 2002 Clio 1.2 16v Dynamique for approx 2 months, having bought it second hand from a Renault dealer. So far I have had the entire fuel system replaced (dealer fault - petrol problem) but otherwise I have had no major problems other than usual teething problems when purchasing a new car. I had driven a 1997 Fiat Punto 1.1 before the Clio and find the Clio to be a dream to drive in comparison. The steering is light, but sturdy and the responsiveness of the engine is good.
I drive approx 50mls commute to work everyday and average 250/300mls a week and find it very economical on fuel and comfortable for long haul driving. Other than the fuel problem at the start (again, a dealer fault) I have had no major problems and am looking forward to years of pleasant driving.
28th Apr 2009, 11:46
I have just sold my 2002 1.4 Dynamic and never want to see it again. Such rubbish, coils going all the time cat converter £1000 and loads of other stuff. This is a rattle box I'm not going to pine after!
1st Apr 2003, 08:40
Any potential buyers who are worried about the performance of the 1.2 should consider that 1.4 and 1.6 engines are available at a small amount of extra cost.
I have a 1.6 16v dynamique (bought from a car supermarket), and it performs excellently.
My only complaint would be that it has the same gear ratios as the 1.2, and therefore it revs harder than it needs to on motorways. It could definitely do with a longer 5th gear (or maybe even a 6th).