The Renault Master is the largest Renault van that was first introduced in the 1980 model year. 1997 saw the release of the 2nd generation of the Master while the 3rd generation of Master came about back in 2010. Renault managed to sell quite a few of these which is partly why they kept it for a better part of almost 2 and a half decades.
In this article, we are going to mention all the common problems with Renault Master which includes most of the stuff you ought to look for when you buy one used. The Renault Master tends to suffer from electrical issues, issues with the transmission, issues with the suspension, issues with the fuel delivery system, and issues with the brakes.
All in all, the Renault Master is a decently reliable van that should be able to stand the test of time if you take proper care of it. With that being said, the Master isn’t overly expensive to look out for which is also why it manages to shift many units even today.
Renault is not yet clear on whether the new Master is coming out immediately or if it’s going to be delayed for a year or two. Either way, the Renault Master is a good van that does manage to do its job quite well, especially if you are on top of all of its issues.
Electrical Issues
Electrical problems are likely the most common types of problems with the Renault Master. Some owners have reported problems with the battery not holding a charge, which can cause starting problems or the van not starting at all. The alternator can also be problematic and thus fail to charge the battery when on the move.
Many owners have reported problems with the wiring system of the van, which can cause electrical issues such as the van’s lights not working or the engine not starting. This can also lead to problems with the fuse box which can make it difficult to properly diagnose the root of the problem.
Transmission Issues
Transmission problems can also occur with Renault Master vans. Owners have reported issues with the clutch and gearbox, including difficulty shifting gears or slipping the clutch. These problems can be caused by worn-out clutch plates, damaged gearbox components, or a malfunctioning clutch hydraulic system.
Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, including jerky shifting, slipping gears, or delayed gear engagement. These problems can be caused by worn-out or damaged transmission components or issues with the transmission fluid.
Suspension Issues
Suspension issues are also common with Renault Master vans. Some owners have reported problems with the shock absorbers and springs, which can cause the van to ride rough, bounce excessively, or handle poorly. Other reported issues include uneven tire wear, excessive noise from the suspension, and steering problems.
Most of these problems are caused by worn-out suspension components, damaged shock absorbers or springs, or issues with the steering and alignment system. Regular inspection and maintenance of the suspension system can help prevent many of these issues from occurring.
Fuel System Issues
If you experience stuff such as hesitation during acceleration, engine stalling, difficulties starting the van up, or rough idle, you might be experiencing problems with the fuel pump, fuel injectors, and fuel lines.
Fuel system problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including clogged fuel filters, damaged fuel pumps, or dirty fuel injectors. Regular maintenance of the fuel system, including replacing the fuel filter at the recommended intervals, can help prevent many of these issues from occurring.
Issues with the Brakes
Brake problems are also a common issue that some Renault Master owners have reported. Some owners have reported problems with the brake pads, discs, and calipers. These issues can cause the van to have reduced stopping power, make unusual noises when braking, or experience uneven brake wear.
Brake problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out brake pads, damaged brake discs, or malfunctioning calipers. Regularly servicing and inspecting the essentials of the brake system, including replacing the brake pads and discs at the recommended intervals, can help prevent many of these issues from occurring.
FAQ Section
Should I Buy a Renault Master?
The Renault Master is known for its spacious interior, making it a great choice for those who need to transport goods or people. It also comes in a range of sizes and configurations, including panel vans, minibusses, and chassis cabs, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs. It is fuel efficient, decently reliable, and quite affordable on the 2nd hand market.
However, the Master isn’t the best large van on the market by any means which is partly why it depreciates as much as it does. The frequency of problems might be a bit too much for someone who uses these vans on a constant business daily basis, so be sure to value your options carefully before deciding.
How Safe Is the Renault Master?
Depending on the model and options selected, the Renault Master may come equipped with ADAS features such as lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and emergency braking assistance. It also comes with all the essential airbags, ESC, ABS, and hill start assist.
This means that the Master comes with all the essentials, but isn’t particularly well equipped, especially compared to most newer vans on the market. Be that as it may, the Renault Master has been crash-tested and has received a four-star Euro NCAP safety rating, which is considered to be a good rating.
Is the Renault Master Electric?
Renault Master is available in both diesel and electric versions. The electric version is called Renault Master Z.E. and it is a zero-emissions electric van designed for city driving. It is powered by a 33 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and has a range of up to 120 km (75 miles) on a single charge.
The Renault Master Z.E. is a popular choice for businesses and individuals who want an eco-friendly and efficient van for urban deliveries or short journeys.
