Renault Clio Hatchback (2001 - 2008) 1.2 16V Expression 3d (2003/03) 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?
Skint.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Absolutely nothing, I would think.
Would you buy this car again and why?
You're joking. I've had enough of the vagaries of French electrics to last a lifetime.
What are you likely to buy next?
Honda, Nissan, Toyota...
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£2,300
When did you buy the car?
March 2014
Did you get a good deal and why?
I've brought about half a dozen cars from the same dealer in the past. Think they have lowered their customer care levels recently. Vehicle not in a 'ready' condition when collected; had to take it to a main dealer to get a problem sorted (under their cost).
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
I needed a cheap runabout.
What was the dealer like?
Gone off the boil.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Corners well. No over steer. Fine around town, nippy at town speeds and parks in little spaces. Not fun on the motorway; underpowered and engine struggles above 60mph. I average about 50mpg though, which isn't bad for an old motor, and is the reason I keep it.
What's it like to park?
Easy; compact, good visibility.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
When I brought it, the rear wiper didn't work. They couldn't sort it, so told me they would pay for it to go to a main dealer. Main dealer thought it needed a new Engine Mangmnt Unit just to make the wiper work. Too protracted, and I got bored trying to get it fixed, and just live without it. Electrics are awful in this car. The centre console circuit (dial illumination, 12v socket, ventilation etc just works when it feels like it. But, the engine is mercifully a reliable little donkey and just ploughs on. Just as well, or I would have gone a bit 'Basil Fawlty' on it, and beaten it with a tree branch.
What's most practical about your car?
It goes when you start it. It gets you there. That's about it.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
It's got a stereo, so you can listen to music to liven up the dull driving experience. Basic sunroof.
