KNOWN FAULTS · Renault

Renault Espace (V) 1.6 dCi (R9M) common problems.

2015–2023 · Diesel

Sources are not verified in real time and no entry confirms that your car is affected.

2 known faults with sources

Applies if: Only Euro 6b 1.6 dCi, if the symptoms began after the 2024 update.

Judder and flat spots when accelerating on Euro 6b 1.5 dCi and 1.6 dCi engines after the 2024 emissions updateExhaust and emissions

Engine / equipment: Renault and Dacia Euro 6b 1.5 dCi (K9K) and 1.6 dCi (R9M)
Period mentioned: Cars that received the NOx-reduction update of early 2024
Symptoms: After a visit to the dealer, flat spots when accelerating and judder at steady speeds; sometimes higher diesel consumption. On the Mégane IV and Kadjar the engine may start and then stall.
Possible cause described: In early 2024 Renault and Dacia updated these engines to cut nitrogen oxides (NOx) further. According to an internal Renault technical note from June 2024, updated in February 2025 and reported by L'argus, the flat spots and judder are mainly due to the new strategy widening the periods when the NOx trap is cleaned (regenerated); to do so the engine injects more diesel, which also explains the higher consumption.
Check for the garage: Ask a Renault or Dacia dealer for the new injection ECU reprogramming for these symptoms (Dacia has offered it since May 2024 and Renault since January 2025). It is not a recall with a letter: you have to ask for it. First have them rule out other causes (particulate filter, boost pressure sensor).
Cost cited in the source: No verified estimate: the note does not say whether the reprogramming is free; ask the dealer.A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.

Applies if: Weak points of this model from inspections, breakdown statistics and recalls; anything specific to one engine is stated in the sheet.

Rear-wheel steering, rust, oil leaks and EGR on the Espace VKnown weak points

Engine / equipment: Renault Espace V (TCe and dCi)
Period mentioned: 2015–2023
Symptoms: Failures of the rear-wheel steering motors on early cars, moisture in the headlamps, rust after a few years, engine and gearbox oil leaks; on the 1.6 dCi (R9M), burning smell, loss of power and dark smoke from the EGR.
Possible cause described: Renault changed the rear-steering supplier. There were recalls: the R9M EGR (with possible loss of brake assistance), a chafing 1.6 dCi wiring loom, the child lock (March 2015–July 2016), seat bolts, curtain airbags, a bonded bonnet and chafing brake hoses.
Check for the garage: Check every campaign by VIN; read the rear-steering codes; check rust and leaks.
Cost cited in the source: No verified estimate; ask the garage for a quote.A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.