Renault Clio (1998 - 2001) 1.9 D RT 5d (1998/S) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Wallet-weary.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Would you buy this car again and why?
No, because it's difficult to source parts as this car is the first of the 'bubble' shape. Also, it's awkward to repair yourself because Renault use obscure-sized Allen screws and plastic clips tend to break.
What are you likely to buy next?
An old VW would be easier to live with.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£0
When did you buy the car?
January 2007
Did you get a good deal and why?
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Diesel economy with the electrical gizmos.
What was the dealer like?
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
It sounds like a tractor as the engine capacity is too large for the car's body (this unit has now been replaced by the 1.5 Dci). The 1.9D is fast as I travelled from central London to Manchester in two and a half hours.
What's it like to park?
It depends on the driver but it's normally simple.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
The central locking stopped working because the circuit board (for the sensor) is conveniently located beneath the aerial and, you've guessed it, the seal leaks so it oxidises. The driver's door lock broke and isn't easy to change. The battery in the keyfob is awkward to change. Air gets into the fuel filter so the engine runs jerkily. You should find a diesel specialist for this car. The bonnet came open and buckled, partly because it hadn't been closed properly. Renault (UK) have issued an addentum to the service book about lubricating the safety catch. Radio display is invisible, I suspect the bulbs have gone. The 1.9D is too big for this car as the mounts worked loose because of the vibration. A more civilised 1.5 Dci is fitted now. It's difficult to get parts for this model as 19
What's most practical about your car?
Five doors.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Stereo control pod.
