CKFCar Known Faults
MinorAffected: 2012-201930,000–80,000 miles

Renault Clio Mk4 0.9 TCe 90bhp — Front Anti-Roll Bar Drop Link Wear

The front anti-roll bar drop links wear out on heavily potholed UK roads, causing an annoying knocking sound at low speeds.

Severity

Minor

DIY Difficulty

Easy

Est. Cost

£60–£120

OBD Codes

None

Symptoms

  • Light knocking or rattling noise from the front suspension over rough roads
  • Noise is most pronounced at 10-20mph over speed bumps

Root Cause

The ball joints at either end of the drop link lose their grease and the nylon cups wear out, creating play in the joint.

How To Fix

  1. Jack the car and check for vertical play in the drop link.
  2. Replace in pairs (left and right) for best results.
  3. A very simple DIY job, but the nuts are often seized and need to be cut off.
  4. Cost: £60-120 at a garage.

Estimated Repair Costs

Repair OptionEst. Cost (GBP)
DIY (parts only)£24–£48
Independent Garage£60–£120
Main Dealership£96–£192

Other Faults on This Variant

Thermostat Housing Leak

Severe
2012-201940,000–80,000 miles£150–£200

The plastic thermostat housing on the 0.9 TCe warps and cracks, leading to a rapid loss of engine coolant and severe overheating risk.

Timing Chain Stretch and Rattle

Severe
2012-201950,000–90,000 miles£600–£800

The 0.9 TCe 3-cylinder engine suffers from premature timing chain stretch, causing an aggressive rattle and potentially fatal engine timing slip.

VVT Solenoid Oil Leak

Minor
2012-201950,000–100,000 miles£10–£80

The Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid located on the top of the cylinder head leaks oil, which runs down the front of the engine.

Disclaimer: Repair cost estimates are indicative and based on community data. Always get a quote from a qualified mechanic before proceeding with any repair.