Renault South Africa
Scores reflect the Overall AI Score for each category
Based on recent customer reviews, Renault South Africa customers describe a deeply troubling ownership experience marked by recurring vehicle defects, denied warranty claims, and a near-total breakdown in after-sales support. Brand-new Kigers, Tribers, Clios and Kwids are reportedly failing within months, with engine, gearbox, clutch, cooling and electrical faults dominating the feedback. Dealership service quality and head-office escalation responsiveness are the most frequently criticised aspects of the brand experience.
TrustIndex
1.9
Jul '25 - Jun '26
Based on recent customer reviews, Renault South Africa customers describe a deeply troubling ownership experience marked by recurring vehicle defects, denied warranty claims, and a near-total breakdown in after-sales support. Brand-new Kigers, Tribers, Clios and Kwids are reportedly failing within months, with engine, gearbox, clutch, cooling and electrical faults dominating the feedback. Dealership service quality and head-office escalation responsiveness are the most frequently criticised aspects of the brand experience.
The most common complaint about Renault South Africa, based on Hellopeter's AI analysis of recent customer reviews, is Vehicle Quality & Reliability. Customers report severe defects on near-new vehicles including engine failures, gearbox faults, burst coolant systems, clutch failures, faulty infotainment, and even vehicle fires. Recurring complaints centre on the Kiger, Triber, Kwid and Clio with warranty claims often denied. Vehicle Quality & Reliability (0.6).
Used this business recently? Share your experience to help others decide.
Used this business recently? Share your experience to help others decide.
Share Your Experience1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I regret buying my Renault Kiger. After only 4 years, the car suffered severe overheating issues that led to major engine repairs. I was first told by CMH Renault Midrand that the water tank was leaking, but Penta Renault Klerksdorp dismissed it as a loose cap. The problem continued until the car eventually broke down and left me stranded. After nearly 3 weeks for repairs, the car was returned with a noticeable engine rattling sound. I just took it back again recently, and it has now been another 2 weeks without my car and with little to no updates from the Penta Renault Klerksdorp dealership. Very disappointed with both the vehicle quality and customer service. I am not one to complain, but this has given me sleepless nights. I also thought I would be upgrading my model early next year, but I would rather move away from this brand.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I regret buying my Renault Kiger. After only 4 years, the car suffered severe overheating issues that led to major engine repairs. I was first told by CMH Renault Midrand that the water tank was leaking, but Penta Renault Klerksdorp dismissed it as a loose cap. The problem continued until the car eventually broke down and left me stranded. After nearly 3 weeks for repairs, the car was returned with a noticeable engine rattling sound. I just took it back again recently, and it has now been another 2 weeks without my car and with little to no updates from the Penta Renault Klerksdorp dealership. Very disappointed with both the vehicle quality and customer service. I am not one to complain, but this has given me sleepless nights. I also thought I would be upgrading my model early next year, but I would rather move away from this brand.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
Dear Renault South Africa Customer Care, I am writing to formally lodge an urgent complaint and request immediate executive intervention regarding my Renault Kwid 1.0 Climber AMT. Vehicle Details: • Registration Number: CT97RDZN • VIN / Chassis Number: MEEBBA00100817972 • Engine Number: B4DA427E002533 • Owner: Pravesh Maharaj • Selling / Servicing Dealer: Renault Pinetown I purchased this vehicle in 2023 in good faith, expecting a reliable vehicle and professional after-sales support from Renault. Unfortunately, since taking ownership, this vehicle has been plagued by recurring clutch and actuator-related failures which have resulted in repeated breakdowns, workshop visits, inconvenience, financial loss and serious safety concerns for my family. According to Renault's own repair history, the vehicle has repeatedly returned for clutch and actuator-related problems: • March 2024 – Vehicle experienced clutch slipping and required replacement of the clutch kit and release bearing. • April 2024 – Vehicle broke down and was not drivable, requiring replacement of the clutch motor actuator. • December 2025 – Clutch actuator replaced. • December 2025 – Clutch actuator replaced again shortly afterwards. • May 2026 – Vehicle suffered clutch slipping and loss of power uphill. Renault diagnosed collapsed pressure plate fingers and replaced the clutch kit, release bearing and gearbox oil. • Immediately after this repair, the vehicle had to be returned again for further clutch adjustment and attention. The fact that the same clutch and actuator-related components continue to fail despite repeated repairs raises serious concerns regarding the reliability of the vehicle and the effectiveness of the repairs carried out. This matter goes far beyond inconvenience. On at least two separate occasions, my wife was left stranded alone on the side of the road because of these vehicle failures. As a husband, it is deeply upsetting and distressing to know that she was left vulnerable and exposed to serious risks while waiting for assistance. She could have been involved in an accident, stranded in an unsafe area, become the victim of crime, or found herself in a situation where help was not immediately available. No customer should have to worry whether their vehicle will leave them stranded without warning, especially when there is a documented history of recurring failures affecting the same system. The emotional stress, anxiety and concern caused by these incidents have been significant. Every time she leaves home in this vehicle, there is uncer*****y as to whether she will safely reach her destination or whether the vehicle will fail yet again. In addition to the safety concerns, the ongoing repairs have had a severe impact on our daily lives and finances. My wife relies on this vehicle to travel to work. Whenever the vehicle is booked into the dealership, we are left without reliable transportation. In many cases, no vehicle means no work, no income and no compensation for the losses suffered as a result of these recurring failures. Despite the vehicle repeatedly returning for repairs relating to the same faults, Renault Pinetown has refused to provide us with a courtesy vehicle. We have repeatedly found ourselves without transport while trying to resolve problems that are clearly not of our making. The lack of assistance and empathy shown in this regard has been extremely disappointing. We have cooperated with every inspection, every diagnosis and every repair request, yet we continue to suffer the consequences of ongoing failures without meaningful support. At this point, I have honestly reached the stage where I do not know what else to do. We have followed every process, attended every appointment and given Renault every opportunity to rectify these issues. Yet the same problems continue to return. I have lost confidence in the reliability of this vehicle and I am deeply concerned about the safety of my family. I therefore formally request: 1. A full investigation into the vehicle's complete repair history. 2. A written explanation for the repeated clutch and actuator failures. 3. A technical review by Renault South Africa management. 4. An investigation into the service and support provided by Renault Pinetown. 5. Consideration of compensation or goodwill assistance for the repeated inconvenience, loss of use of the vehicle and disruption suffered. 6. A commitment that a courtesy vehicle will be provided whenever the vehicle is retained for recurring repairs. 7. A permanent solution to these ongoing faults rather than continued temporary repairs. 8. Written confirmation of the corrective action Renault South Africa intends taking to resolve this matter once and for all. I trust Renault South Africa will appreciate the seriousness of this matter and provide urgent intervention. Should I not receive a satisfactory response within seven (7) days, I reserve all rights available to me under the Consumer Protection Act and will continue escalating this matter through the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA), the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud, the National Consumer Commission and any other relevant regulatory authorities. I look forward to your urgent response. Kind regards, Pravesh Maharaj 11A Davel Road Ashley Pinetown 3610 Email: praveshmaharaj81@gmail.com Contact Number: 0843701302
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
Dear Renault South Africa Customer Care, I am writing to formally lodge an urgent complaint and request immediate executive intervention regarding my Renault Kwid 1.0 Climber AMT. Vehicle Details: • Registration Number: CT97RDZN • VIN / Chassis Number: MEEBBA00100817972 • Engine Number: B4DA427E002533 • Owner: Pravesh Maharaj • Selling / Servicing Dealer: Renault Pinetown I purchased this vehicle in 2023 in good faith, expecting a reliable vehicle and professional after-sales support from Renault. Unfortunately, since taking ownership, this vehicle has been plagued by recurring clutch and actuator-related failures which have resulted in repeated breakdowns, workshop visits, inconvenience, financial loss and serious safety concerns for my family. According to Renault's own repair history, the vehicle has repeatedly returned for clutch and actuator-related problems: • March 2024 – Vehicle experienced clutch slipping and required replacement of the clutch kit and release bearing. • April 2024 – Vehicle broke down and was not drivable, requiring replacement of the clutch motor actuator. • December 2025 – Clutch actuator replaced. • December 2025 – Clutch actuator replaced again shortly afterwards. • May 2026 – Vehicle suffered clutch slipping and loss of power uphill. Renault diagnosed collapsed pressure plate fingers and replaced the clutch kit, release bearing and gearbox oil. • Immediately after this repair, the vehicle had to be returned again for further clutch adjustment and attention. The fact that the same clutch and actuator-related components continue to fail despite repeated repairs raises serious concerns regarding the reliability of the vehicle and the effectiveness of the repairs carried out. This matter goes far beyond inconvenience. On at least two separate occasions, my wife was left stranded alone on the side of the road because of these vehicle failures. As a husband, it is deeply upsetting and distressing to know that she was left vulnerable and exposed to serious risks while waiting for assistance. She could have been involved in an accident, stranded in an unsafe area, become the victim of crime, or found herself in a situation where help was not immediately available. No customer should have to worry whether their vehicle will leave them stranded without warning, especially when there is a documented history of recurring failures affecting the same system. The emotional stress, anxiety and concern caused by these incidents have been significant. Every time she leaves home in this vehicle, there is uncer*****y as to whether she will safely reach her destination or whether the vehicle will fail yet again. In addition to the safety concerns, the ongoing repairs have had a severe impact on our daily lives and finances. My wife relies on this vehicle to travel to work. Whenever the vehicle is booked into the dealership, we are left without reliable transportation. In many cases, no vehicle means no work, no income and no compensation for the losses suffered as a result of these recurring failures. Despite the vehicle repeatedly returning for repairs relating to the same faults, Renault Pinetown has refused to provide us with a courtesy vehicle. We have repeatedly found ourselves without transport while trying to resolve problems that are clearly not of our making. The lack of assistance and empathy shown in this regard has been extremely disappointing. We have cooperated with every inspection, every diagnosis and every repair request, yet we continue to suffer the consequences of ongoing failures without meaningful support. At this point, I have honestly reached the stage where I do not know what else to do. We have followed every process, attended every appointment and given Renault every opportunity to rectify these issues. Yet the same problems continue to return. I have lost confidence in the reliability of this vehicle and I am deeply concerned about the safety of my family. I therefore formally request: 1. A full investigation into the vehicle's complete repair history. 2. A written explanation for the repeated clutch and actuator failures. 3. A technical review by Renault South Africa management. 4. An investigation into the service and support provided by Renault Pinetown. 5. Consideration of compensation or goodwill assistance for the repeated inconvenience, loss of use of the vehicle and disruption suffered. 6. A commitment that a courtesy vehicle will be provided whenever the vehicle is retained for recurring repairs. 7. A permanent solution to these ongoing faults rather than continued temporary repairs. 8. Written confirmation of the corrective action Renault South Africa intends taking to resolve this matter once and for all. I trust Renault South Africa will appreciate the seriousness of this matter and provide urgent intervention. Should I not receive a satisfactory response within seven (7) days, I reserve all rights available to me under the Consumer Protection Act and will continue escalating this matter through the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA), the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud, the National Consumer Commission and any other relevant regulatory authorities. I look forward to your urgent response. Kind regards, Pravesh Maharaj 11A Davel Road Ashley Pinetown 3610 Email: praveshmaharaj81@gmail.com Contact Number: 0843701302
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
My experience Renault over the last 3 years have been quite shocking. Their lack of communication and accountability baffles me at times. From tracking and logging of incomplete and incorrect information, to services not done correctly and check ins when issues occur never being resolved. And when something happens, you as the owner of the vehicle is to blame, as if you the owner is the tech and maintenance people employed to resolve the issues. The communication is outrageous. No one answers their customer service line and road side assist is so hard to get a hold of that it’s honestly pointless. Trying to book your vehicle in for service or any maintenance issues, is another pain since if you do it online no one gets back to you. Calling the service department. Hang on because they will get back to you on never.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
My experience Renault over the last 3 years have been quite shocking. Their lack of communication and accountability baffles me at times. From tracking and logging of incomplete and incorrect information, to services not done correctly and check ins when issues occur never being resolved. And when something happens, you as the owner of the vehicle is to blame, as if you the owner is the tech and maintenance people employed to resolve the issues. The communication is outrageous. No one answers their customer service line and road side assist is so hard to get a hold of that it’s honestly pointless. Trying to book your vehicle in for service or any maintenance issues, is another pain since if you do it online no one gets back to you. Calling the service department. Hang on because they will get back to you on never.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
Absolutely disgraceful way Motus looks after the Renault brand in South Africa. I bought a 2017 Renault Megane RS 275 Finale(prenumbered 5/20 imported to South Africa from Dieppe in France) out of the box and absolutely babied this vehicle from day one. The vehicle is an absolute masterpiece, but I had a problem with faulty seat brackets(rocking) from the first few month's of ownership). This was mentioned to the Renault agent at each service and the seat brackets were tightened. Eventually both seat brackets were replaced but after a few months, the new driver's seat bracket started rocking again and the dealer continued to tighten the seat brackets at each service. Eventually the vehicle warranty expired and I was advised that I needed to replace the driver's seat bracket for a second time at my cost of R40k. Given that I had treated the vehicle with the care and respect that it deserved as a collectors piece, and that I had brought the problem to Renualt's attention throughout all the years, I approached Renault SA customer care to properly investigate and assist with the replacement cost. I highlighted that the Megane RS 275 Finale was the pinnacle of the Renault brand, but my requests were initially ignored and then after repeated follow ups by me, flat out dismissed. I requested on numerous occasions to discuss my complaint with the Renault/RS brand manager, but the customer care official refused to provide the email address or telephone number and trying to reach the brand manager via call centre telephonically was impossible. If this is how they treat a loyal customer of a collector's piece in their premium brand, I shudder to think how they will treat customers who own the regular Renault brands.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
Absolutely disgraceful way Motus looks after the Renault brand in South Africa. I bought a 2017 Renault Megane RS 275 Finale(prenumbered 5/20 imported to South Africa from Dieppe in France) out of the box and absolutely babied this vehicle from day one. The vehicle is an absolute masterpiece, but I had a problem with faulty seat brackets(rocking) from the first few month's of ownership). This was mentioned to the Renault agent at each service and the seat brackets were tightened. Eventually both seat brackets were replaced but after a few months, the new driver's seat bracket started rocking again and the dealer continued to tighten the seat brackets at each service. Eventually the vehicle warranty expired and I was advised that I needed to replace the driver's seat bracket for a second time at my cost of R40k. Given that I had treated the vehicle with the care and respect that it deserved as a collectors piece, and that I had brought the problem to Renualt's attention throughout all the years, I approached Renault SA customer care to properly investigate and assist with the replacement cost. I highlighted that the Megane RS 275 Finale was the pinnacle of the Renault brand, but my requests were initially ignored and then after repeated follow ups by me, flat out dismissed. I requested on numerous occasions to discuss my complaint with the Renault/RS brand manager, but the customer care official refused to provide the email address or telephone number and trying to reach the brand manager via call centre telephonically was impossible. If this is how they treat a loyal customer of a collector's piece in their premium brand, I shudder to think how they will treat customers who own the regular Renault brands.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I am submitting this review regarding my experience with Renault South Africa following the purchase of a 2024 Renault Clio Intens from Renault Northcliff in August 2025. Since shortly after delivery, the vehicle has had persistent issues, most notably a faulty Apple CarPlay/infotainment system. Despite multiple dealership visits, software interventions, and even a component replacement, the issue remains unresolved months later. Additional concerns were also identified over time, including structural and cosmetic defects and evidence of prior bodywork that was not disclosed at the point of sale. An independent assessment further confirmed signs of previous damage and repairs. While the matter was escalated to Renault South Africa, the resolution process has been slow and inconsistent, with shifting explanations and no lasting fix provided. At this stage, the vehicle remains unreliable in terms of one of its core advertised features. Based on my experience, I would strongly advise customers to ensure any Renault vehicle is independently assessed before purchase, as visible condition may not reflect underlying issues, and escalation support may not lead to timely resolution.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I am submitting this review regarding my experience with Renault South Africa following the purchase of a 2024 Renault Clio Intens from Renault Northcliff in August 2025. Since shortly after delivery, the vehicle has had persistent issues, most notably a faulty Apple CarPlay/infotainment system. Despite multiple dealership visits, software interventions, and even a component replacement, the issue remains unresolved months later. Additional concerns were also identified over time, including structural and cosmetic defects and evidence of prior bodywork that was not disclosed at the point of sale. An independent assessment further confirmed signs of previous damage and repairs. While the matter was escalated to Renault South Africa, the resolution process has been slow and inconsistent, with shifting explanations and no lasting fix provided. At this stage, the vehicle remains unreliable in terms of one of its core advertised features. Based on my experience, I would strongly advise customers to ensure any Renault vehicle is independently assessed before purchase, as visible condition may not reflect underlying issues, and escalation support may not lead to timely resolution.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I feel like a real Karen and some would think that I'm living up to my name, but when you buy a brand new car and no one seems to be willing to help, what do you do. Not going into detail the amount of times I called, tried visiting the branch, or the various employees / managers I spoke to, it's a joke how the client service and after-sale service at RENAULT SOUTH AFRICA just does not exist. I bought a brand new car, it is not even a year old yet, and I got an engine failure warning light while busy driving. Long story short, Renault confirmed that it's due to a crack in the water pump - their reasoning for that having happened is "due to a faulty part, unluck if you will". I have been without my car for a almost a week now. The part having finally been order by Renault to have it replaced, and the estimated time for that is another week. Two weeks without a car and Renault just shrugs their shoulders stating they don't do courtesy vehicles or even provide a client with a demo model which their employees drive with. So unhappy and wish I never supported this car manufacturer in the first instance! Having paid way less for a less-known car before, and even then, a courtesy car was always offered. In this case with Renault, it is not my fault that the part broke, the car is still under warrantee and it has not even been for its first service yet before breaking! And now that becomes my problem. How!? Pathetic service and very unsatisfied customer! Will not advise anyone to ever support any French car manufacturer.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I feel like a real Karen and some would think that I'm living up to my name, but when you buy a brand new car and no one seems to be willing to help, what do you do. Not going into detail the amount of times I called, tried visiting the branch, or the various employees / managers I spoke to, it's a joke how the client service and after-sale service at RENAULT SOUTH AFRICA just does not exist. I bought a brand new car, it is not even a year old yet, and I got an engine failure warning light while busy driving. Long story short, Renault confirmed that it's due to a crack in the water pump - their reasoning for that having happened is "due to a faulty part, unluck if you will". I have been without my car for a almost a week now. The part having finally been order by Renault to have it replaced, and the estimated time for that is another week. Two weeks without a car and Renault just shrugs their shoulders stating they don't do courtesy vehicles or even provide a client with a demo model which their employees drive with. So unhappy and wish I never supported this car manufacturer in the first instance! Having paid way less for a less-known car before, and even then, a courtesy car was always offered. In this case with Renault, it is not my fault that the part broke, the car is still under warrantee and it has not even been for its first service yet before breaking! And now that becomes my problem. How!? Pathetic service and very unsatisfied customer! Will not advise anyone to ever support any French car manufacturer.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I purchased a Renault Triber from Renault Melrose in December and collected it in January. Since collection, the vehicle has been unreliable and defective. The vehicle has broken down multiple times, has been towed on more than one occasion, and has been returned to the dealership repeatedly due to ongoing faults. These issues have been continuous since collection and are not isolated incidents. Despite several repair attempts since January, the situation has now escalated to the point where I have been informed that the vehicle requires a full engine replacement under warranty, after previously experiencing gearbox-related and driveability issues. It is extremely concerning that a recently purchased vehicle has required intervention on multiple major components within such a short period. I formally rejected the vehicle during an in-person meeting with the dealership on 24 March and requested either a refund or replacement. However, this request has still not been meaningfully addressed. Instead, as recently as yesterday, I was informed via email that the dealership has the right to continue repairing the vehicle. While I understand that warranty and OEM processes exist, I do not understand how this overrides my rights as a consumer to receive goods that are of good quality, reliable, durable, and free from defects. After multiple failed repair attempts from January to date, I am simply not prepared to accept further repairs on a vehicle that has repeatedly failed. I have also had to repeatedly correct inaccurate and incomplete statements regarding the history of this matter, which has made the process even more frustrating. I have honestly never dealt with a service provider whose approach has felt as undermining and dismissive as this experience has been. I am currently using a loan vehicle provided by the dealership after making them aware of the inconvenience this matter has caused. At this stage, I am effectively expected to continue using a temporary vehicle while the vehicle I purchased remains dead and inoperative. In addition, ownership of the vehicle I purchased has still not been transferred to me from January to date, which raises even further concern regarding the handling of this matter. The matter has been escalated to the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa and remains unresolved pending the outstanding information required to finalise the complaint process. At this stage, this is no longer just a repair issue, but a matter of reliability, accountability and consumer rights. I now require urgent intervention from Renault South Africa to properly resolve this matter.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
I purchased a Renault Triber from Renault Melrose in December and collected it in January. Since collection, the vehicle has been unreliable and defective. The vehicle has broken down multiple times, has been towed on more than one occasion, and has been returned to the dealership repeatedly due to ongoing faults. These issues have been continuous since collection and are not isolated incidents. Despite several repair attempts since January, the situation has now escalated to the point where I have been informed that the vehicle requires a full engine replacement under warranty, after previously experiencing gearbox-related and driveability issues. It is extremely concerning that a recently purchased vehicle has required intervention on multiple major components within such a short period. I formally rejected the vehicle during an in-person meeting with the dealership on 24 March and requested either a refund or replacement. However, this request has still not been meaningfully addressed. Instead, as recently as yesterday, I was informed via email that the dealership has the right to continue repairing the vehicle. While I understand that warranty and OEM processes exist, I do not understand how this overrides my rights as a consumer to receive goods that are of good quality, reliable, durable, and free from defects. After multiple failed repair attempts from January to date, I am simply not prepared to accept further repairs on a vehicle that has repeatedly failed. I have also had to repeatedly correct inaccurate and incomplete statements regarding the history of this matter, which has made the process even more frustrating. I have honestly never dealt with a service provider whose approach has felt as undermining and dismissive as this experience has been. I am currently using a loan vehicle provided by the dealership after making them aware of the inconvenience this matter has caused. At this stage, I am effectively expected to continue using a temporary vehicle while the vehicle I purchased remains dead and inoperative. In addition, ownership of the vehicle I purchased has still not been transferred to me from January to date, which raises even further concern regarding the handling of this matter. The matter has been escalated to the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa and remains unresolved pending the outstanding information required to finalise the complaint process. At this stage, this is no longer just a repair issue, but a matter of reliability, accountability and consumer rights. I now require urgent intervention from Renault South Africa to properly resolve this matter.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
Unable to get hold of Renault's customer care department. No reply on email. Sending an email to info@renaultsa.com which is the general email address from their website fails with an email delivery failure.
1 reviews | Active since Jan 2020
Unable to get hold of Renault's customer care department. No reply on email. Sending an email to info@renaultsa.com which is the general email address from their website fails with an email delivery failure.
Renault South Africa has a TrustIndex of 1.9 out of 10 on Hellopeter, based on 129 reviews in the last 12 months. Hellopeter has tracked Renault South Africa across 2,520 total reviews. How is the TrustIndex calculated? →