Abnormal engine oil consumption is one of the most discussed problems among owners of vehicles equipped with Renault TCe 0.9 and 1.2 petrol engines , mounted on various models such as Captur, Clio, Megane, Dacia Duster and others until 2020. These engines are known to have excessive oil top-up requirements even with mileages of less than 60,000 km.
🔍 Symptoms of abnormal oil consumption in TCe engines
Owners of cars with a TCe engine can recognize the problem through various signs:
⚠️ "Service" light on
One of the first warning signs is the yellow "Service" light on the dashboard. In many cases, this light comes on due to a low oil level , even if the vehicle has been serviced regularly.
🛢️ Frequent top-ups
Another very common symptom is the need to top up the oil every 1,000–1,500 km , a frequency well above the norm for a modern gasoline engine. This not only entails additional costs, but also the risk of serious engine damage if the level drops too low.
💨 Smoke from the exhaust and residue in the engine compartment
Excessive oil consumption can cause blue smoke from the exhaust , indicating that oil is burning in the engine. Furthermore, oily residues in the engine compartment are not uncommon , which can result from leaks or poor crankcase ventilation management.
🔧 Main causes of the problem
Abnormal oil consumption in TCe engines has been associated mainly with:
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Manufacturing defects of some internal components (such as piston rings or piston rings)
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Excessive tolerances between mechanical parts
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Lubrication problems and premature wear
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Poorly tested designs in early versions of the engine
Over the years, Renault has made modifications to the TCe engines, but problems have been quite widespread, especially in models produced up to 2018-2020.
🧰 What to do if your car consumes too much oil
If you own a car with a TCe engine and experience one or more symptoms, we recommend that you:
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✅ Check the oil level frequently , every 1,000 km or even less
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✅ Top up only with the oil recommended by the manufacturer
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✅ Avoid long journeys with low oil level , to prevent irreversible damage
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✅ Have a diagnosis carried out by a qualified mechanic , who will be able to check for any leaks, compression and condition of the piston rings
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✅ Evaluate the warranty extension or a possible warranty intervention if the car still falls within the terms
🚗 Which models are involved
Among the models most affected by this defect are:
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Renault Captur (until 2020)
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Renault Clio III and IV
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Renault Megane III
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Dacia Duster
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Dacia Sandero
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Nissan Juke (with TCe 1.2 DIG-T engine)
📋 Which oil should I use for TCe engines?
To ensure maximum protection for the engine, it is essential to use an engine oil with specifications:
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Renault RN0710 – mandatory for TCe turbo engines
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ACEA A3/B4 – for adequate protection in turbocharged petrol engines
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RN17 (new specification) – backwards compatible with RN0710, recommended for newer models
The recommended grades are 5W-30 or 5W-40 , to be chosen based on the climate and conditions of use.
📝 Final considerations
The problem of abnormal oil consumption in TCe engines is real and documented by numerous driver testimonials. If you own one of these engines, careful and regular maintenance can help limit the damage. In the event of excessive consumption, it is essential to act promptly to avoid serious engine failure.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it normal to have to top up the oil every 1,500 km?
No. An engine in good condition shouldn't require such frequent top-ups. This is a clear symptom of a TCe malfunction.
Can I continue driving if the "Service" light comes on?
You can only drive for short distances. You should check the oil level immediately and top up if necessary.
Which oil is recommended for TCe engines?
We recommend a 5W30 or 5W40 synthetic oil that meets Renault RN0710 specifications , but it is always best to check your owner's manual.
Is the repair covered by warranty?
It depends on the age of the car and the mileage. Some customers have received warranty repairs, while others have had to pay the full cost.
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