2002 Renault Clio Expression dci 65 from UK and Ireland - Comments

Seat runners broke at 40000 miles Warranty covered.

Water pump slight leak at 60000 miles replaced.

Oil cooler started to drip oil into coolant - replaced at 99000miles.

Overall I am extremely please with the car. I wanted a vehicle that would be cheap to run, cheap to tax, reliable and comfortable. I am 5' 9" so a big car was not really necessary. I got the car after it had depreciated over £5K so it was a real steal. It also had warranty on it so I had piece of mind.

The performance is pretty good for a 1.5 diesel and I am getting around 60 mpg! The tax is only £50 now per annum and so it really is cheap! The service intervals are 18000 so again, another reason to buy this car.

Problems. My mate, who is a mechanic, advised that I replace the water pump at 60km, which hadn't failed, but was showing signs of going.

Also, just resently 98K, I found oil sludge in the coolant tank. BAD NEWS, I thought. Everything was pointing towards the Head gasket. However, I had a feeling it may be the oil cooler. So, I had it flushed a few times and the problem persisted. Then I replaced the oil cooler (£100 for the part + £120 for fitting and flushing) and then waited a few days before just having the coolant tank flushed and since then the sludge has gone. Great news! I would advise anyone with the same problem on the 1.5Dci to do the same as me and not jump to change the head gasket. Anyone with the same issue, should leave a comment and I will advise you further.

Overall a great car!

UPDATE:I am now on 108000 miles and things still going well. Still on original exhaust, gearbox, engine (Obviously).

Fan belt is squeaking. I have had the self-adjuster replaced by dealer and 6 months later it is squeaking again!

As much as the car is cheap, I need something bigger and so I have my eye on a fabia vrs. Suppose to be quick for a diesel!

I would still recommend a clio diesel to someone looking for a cheap little motor.

Oil leaking from the oil filter mounting very badly, no known fix!

Have the exact car and have noticed a lot of white smoke from the exhaust, and someone mentioned the head gasket, which will burn a hole in my wallet, so want to be sure if it is; did you notice any smoke coming from the exhaust? Before having the problem fixed?

Thanks.