Used Renault Kadjar

What to know before buying: Renault Kadjar

From 5 video reviews, 1 forum thread and 1 press test · updated 23/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The Kadjar is a practical family crossover with a roomy cabin, good rear-seat space and a versatile boot.[2][4][6]
• The ride is comfortable and balanced, with the suspension absorbing bumps well, though the handling is not sporty.[2][5][6]
• The steering is light and easy in daily use but offers limited feedback and precision for enthusiastic driving.[5][6][7]
• Body corrosion resistance is rated highly, even on cars exposed to winters and road salt.[1]one source

Typical faults

• The LED daytime running lights can yellow and eventually fail as ageing thermal adhesive on the board reduces diode cooling.[1]one source
• The rear lights can mist up; the reported remedy is to dismantle, dry and reseal the lamp.[1]one source
• The cabin-heater fan bearings can develop a whistling noise.[1]one source
• The steering rack can start knocking at 140,000–200,000 km, usually on the right; repair involves replacing its guide bushes.[1]one source

  140 000–200 000 km

• The 1.2 H5T timing chain can rattle on cold starts around 110,000–130,000 km; the source links this to overly long oil intervals.[1]one source

  110 000–130 000 km · 1.2 H5T

• On the 1.6 dCi R9M, the EGR cooler can leak at its gaskets or crack; coolant or exhaust smells are warning signs.[1]one source

  1.6 dCi R9M

• A recall for 2015–2018 cars addressed rear-door child locks that could disengage unnoticed after activation.[3]one source

  2015–2018

Which engine and version to take

• The 140 or 160 hp 1.3 H5H is a strong choice: sources describe it as quiet, responsive and generally reliable, though plastic cooling parts can occasionally fail.[1][2][5]
• The 1.5 dCi is economical and generally very reliable; around 200,000 km, the source advises budgeting for preventive big-end bearing replacement.[1][4][6]

What to avoid

• Choose the 1.2 H5T only with convincing oil-change history: long intervals are linked to oil use and chain wear, while motorway performance lacks reserve.[1][6]
• The 1.6 dCi R9M is riskier than the 1.5 dCi, with reported EGR-cooler leaks or cracks and timing-chain life of roughly 150,000 km.[1]one source

What to check at the inspection

• Check the service book and confirm that maintenance, especially oil changes, was performed regularly.[4][1]
• Test every infotainment and electrical function, as owners have reported infotainment glitches.[4]one source
• Switch on the daytime running lights and look for yellowed or failed LEDs; also inspect the rear lamps for condensation.[1]one source
• On a cold start of the 1.2 H5T, listen for timing-chain rattle, especially at 110,000–130,000 km.[1]one source
• During the test drive, listen for steering-rack knocks on the right and check whether the heater fan whistles.[1]one source
• Use the VIN to confirm all recalls were completed, especially the rear-door child-lock campaign for 2015–2018 cars.[3]one source
• Inspect the body, wheels and rear cabin for parking scrapes, kerb damage and wear left by family use.[4]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]АвтоСтронг — Он ВАМ НЕ Nissan! 🛑 Вся правда о проблемах Renault Kadjar. · ▶ video
2. [2]iauto.lv — Tests: Braucam ar atjaunoto „Renault Kadjar” (+ FOTO) · forum
3. [3]car-recalls.eu — Распространенные проблемы Рено Каджар · press
4. [4]CarGurus UK — Should I Buy a Used Renault Kadjar? · ▶ video
5. [5]Carbuyer — Renault Kadjar SUV 2019 in-depth review - Carbuyer · ▶ video
6. [6]carwow — Renault Kadjar SUV 2018 review | carwow Reviews · ▶ video
7. [7]Autofandi - أوتوفندي — تجربة قيادة رينو كادجار - Renault Kadjar Review · ▶ video

Spotted an error? Tell us