Renault Clio V6 (2001-05)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The **Renault Clio V6** has a few common faults that owners should be aware of:

- **Accelerator Pedal Sensor Issues** – Some **2002–2004 models** had faulty accelerator pedal sensors, leading to inconsistent throttle response.
- **Gearbox Problems** – Some Clios built between **2005 and 2006** experienced gearbox malfunctions, switching to manual mode or third gear unexpectedly.
- **Brake Servo Assistance Failure** – The **2002 model** had a known issue where the brake servo assistance could fail due to an incorrectly positioned air pressure sensor.
- **Suspension Weakness** – Some **October 2002 models** had faulty suspension arms that could break under impact.
- **Electrical Faults** – Various Clio models have suffered from electrical issues, including problems with the **central locking system, dashboard displays, and sensors**.

Despite these issues, the Clio V6 remains a **highly desirable collector’s car**.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The **Renault Clio V6** was produced in two distinct generations:

1. **Phase 1 (2001–2003)** – Built by **Tom Walkinshaw Racing (TWR) in Sweden**, this version had a **230 hp 3.0L V6 engine** and a more aggressive, raw driving experience.
2. **Phase 2 (2003–2005)** – Hand-built by **Renault Sport in France**, this model received a **255 hp upgrade**, improved handling, and a refined interior.

Unlike regular Clios, the Clio V6 didn’t have multiple trim levels—it was a **standalone performance model**. However, Renault did offer **limited-edition versions**, such as the **Clio V6 Trophy**, which featured unique styling and performance tweaks.
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Engine
The **Renault Clio V6** was equipped with a **3.0L naturally aspirated V6 engine**. Here are its key performance figures:

- **Phase 1 (2001–2003)**:
- **Power Output**: **230 hp (169 kW) @ 6,000 rpm**
- **Torque**: **300 Nm (221 lb-ft) @ 3,750 rpm**

- **Phase 2 (2003–2005)**:
- **Power Output**: **255 hp (187 kW) @ 7,150 rpm**
- **Torque**: **300 Nm (221 lb-ft) @ 4,650 rpm**

The **Phase 2 model** received a power boost, along with improved handling and refinement. It remained a **mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive** hot hatch—something truly unique in its class.
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Performance
The **Renault Clio V6** delivered impressive performance for a hot hatch, thanks to its **mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout**. Here are the key figures:

- **Phase 1 (2001–2003)**:
- **0-60 mph**: **6.4 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **146 mph (235 km/h)**
- **Weight**: **1,335 kg**
- **Power-to-Weight Ratio**: **172 hp per ton**

- **Phase 2 (2003–2005)**:
- **0-60 mph**: **5.9 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **153 mph (246 km/h)**
- **Weight**: **1,400 kg**
- **Power-to-Weight Ratio**: **182 hp per ton**

The **Phase 2 model** was noticeably quicker, thanks to its **255 hp engine** and improved chassis tuning. It was a true enthusiast’s car—raw, unpredictable, and thrilling to drive.
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Rivals
Here’s how the **Renault Clio V6** stacked up against its main rivals in terms of performance in the UK:

- **Renault Clio V6 (Phase 2, 2003–2005)**
- **0-60 mph**: **5.9 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **153 mph**
- **Power**: **255 hp**

- **Honda Civic Type R (EP3, 2001–2005)**
- **0-60 mph**: **6.4 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **146 mph**
- **Power**: **197 hp**

- **Peugeot 206 GTi 180 (2003–2006)**
- **0-60 mph**: **7.4 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **137 mph**
- **Power**: **180 hp**

- **Volkswagen Golf R32 (Mk4, 2002–2004)**
- **0-60 mph**: **6.4 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **153 mph**
- **Power**: **237 hp**

- **Ford Focus RS Mk1 (2002–2003)**
- **0-60 mph**: **6.4 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **144 mph**
- **Power**: **212 hp**

- **Audi S3 (8L, 1999–2003)**
- **0-60 mph**: **6.6 seconds**
- **Top Speed**: **155 mph**
- **Power**: **225 hp**

The **Clio V6** was one of the fastest hot hatches of its time, but it was also the most unconventional with its **mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout**. While rivals like the **Golf R32 and Audi S3** offered similar straight-line speed, they had **all-wheel drive**, making them more predictable in handling.
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Spares/Specialists NI
You have a few solid options for sourcing **Renault Clio V6 spares** in the **UK and Ireland**, as well as garages in **Northern Ireland** that can service it:

### **Where to Find Spares**
- **[Renault Parts Direct](https://renaultpartsdirect.co.uk/)** – A UK-based supplier offering **genuine Renault parts** and accessories.
- **[AutoVillage](https://www.autovillage.co.uk/car-parts/renault/clio/area/northern-ireland)** – Specializes in **new, used, and refurbished Renault Clio parts** across Northern Ireland.
- **[StillMotoring](https://editor.wix.com/html/editor/web/renderer/edit/a7b51f1b-dd38-43df-8e20-be5da5f120fd?metaSiteId=1e42b07e-938b-45de-8696-96ffc623a942)** – A dedicated Renault specialist with a wide range of parts for classic and performance Renaults.

### **Northern Ireland Garages for Servicing**
- **[Charles Hurst Renault Belfast](https://www.charleshurstgroup.co.uk/renault/contact-us/renault-belfast)** – One of Northern Ireland’s leading Renault dealerships, offering servicing and repairs.
- **[Renault Auto Stores & Clifton Motors](https://renaultpartsdirect.co.uk/)** – A **Bangor-based** garage specializing in Renault servicing, repairs, and diagnostics.
- **[Shelbourne Motors Portadown](http://www.shelbournemotors.com/)** – A well-established car retailer with Renault servicing options.

These places should have you covered whether you need **spares, servicing, or expert advice**.
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Racing
The **Renault Clio V6** had a dedicated racing version known as the **Clio V6 Trophy**. This was a full-fledged competition car built for a **one-make racing series** that ran between **1999 and 2003**. It featured a **285 hp engine**, a **sequential Sadev gearbox**, a **full roll cage**, and **magnesium wheels**. The Trophy series was designed to promote the Clio range and replaced the **Renaultsport Spider Trophy**.

While the road-going Clio V6 was inspired by this race car, the Trophy version was **completely different**, sharing only minor body parts with the production model. It was a true track weapon, built for **high-speed competition**.
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Valuation
The **Renault Clio V6** has become a highly sought-after collector’s car in the UK, with values rising significantly in recent years. As of **2025**, here’s what you can expect:

- **Lowest recorded price**: **£21,870**
- **Median price**: **£39,341**
- **Highest recorded price**: **£206,594**

These figures are based on auction and private sales data. Prices vary depending on **condition, mileage, and rarity**, with **Phase 2 models** generally commanding higher values due to their improved performance and refinement.
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Clubs
There are **Renault Sport owner clubs** in **Northern Ireland** where enthusiasts gather to share knowledge, attend events, and discuss their cars. Here are a couple of options:

- **[Renault Sport NI Owners Club](https://rmsmotoring.com/forum/threads/renault-sport-ni-owners-club.51995/)** – A dedicated forum for Renault Sport owners in Northern Ireland, covering models like the Clio V6, Megane RS, and more.
- **[ClioSport.net](https://cliosport.net/forums/)** – While not exclusive to Northern Ireland, this is a **popular UK-wide Clio enthusiast forum** with members from across the country.

These clubs are great for finding **technical advice, parts, and local meet-ups**.
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