Segment:
City Car / Supermini
Target Audience:
Urban dwellers, budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners seeking practicality and economy.
Key Competitors:
Fiat Cinquecento/Seicento, Peugeot 106, Citroën Saxo, Ford Ka, Volkswagen Polo (earlier models).
Unique Selling Proposition:
Distinctive, quirky, and compact design; spacious interior for its size; excellent maneuverability; affordable running costs.
Design Philosophy:
Characterful and practical urban mobility solution with a focus on interior space and innovative design elements.
Covered Years:
1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typical for EPCs, often hundreds of pages depending on engine/options)
Type:
Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC) / Parts Manual
Language:
Likely Multilingual (English, French, German, Spanish, Italian common for European vehicles)
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, possibly with interactive catalog software)
Engine Components:
Engine block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, timing system (belt/chain), oil pump, cooling system (radiator, pump, thermostat), exhaust system (manifold, catalytic converter, muffler), intake system (air filter, intake manifold).
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel lines, throttle body, ECU fuel control.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission components (gearbox, clutch, shifter), automatic transmission components (if applicable), drive shafts, CV joints, differential.
Braking System:
Brake calipers, brake discs, brake pads, brake drums, wheel cylinders, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS components (if equipped), brake lines, parking brake system.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension components (struts, control arms, ball joints, anti-roll bar), rear suspension components (torsion beams, shock absorbers), steering rack, power steering pump (if applicable), steering column, steering wheel.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system (spark plugs, coils), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring harnesses, sensors (engine, ABS, etc.), ECU.
Body Exterior:
Body panels (doors, hood, trunk lid, fenders), bumpers, grille, windows, mirrors, seals, trim pieces, roof, chassis components.
Interior Trim:
Dashboard, seats, door panels, carpets, headliner, steering wheel, pedals, center console, climate control components (HVAC vents, controls), airbags.
Wheels Tires:
Wheel rims, hubcaps, lug nuts, tire specifications.
Part Identification:
Detailed exploded views illustrating the location and assembly of every component.
Part Number Lookup:
Provides official Renault part numbers for ordering replacement components.
Assembly Disassembly Guidance:
Visual guidance for understanding how parts fit together, essential for replacement or repair planning.
Depth:
Comprehensive parts catalog, ideal for parts identification, replacement, and general understanding of vehicle construction.
Length:
Approx. 3,430 mm (135.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,630 mm (64.2 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,390 mm (54.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,350 mm (92.5 in)
Boot Space Min:
Approx. 168 liters (seats up)
Boot Space Max:
Approx. 1,096 liters (rear seats folded)
Kerb Weight:
Approx. 780-820 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1,200 kg
Euro Ncap Rating:
2.5 stars (original tests, models varied by year and equipment)
ABS:
Optional on some early models, standard on later versions.
Traction Control:
Rarely available on this generation.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional.
Seatbelts:
Front three-point inertia reel seatbelts, rear lap belts.
Body Structure:
Designed with crumple zones for improved impact absorption.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Typically every 60,000 - 80,000 km or 4-5 years due to potential for catastrophic engine damage if it breaks.
Engine Oil Type:
Typically 10W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic/semi-synthetic, API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3 rated.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Renault Type D) mixed with distilled water (50/50).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Oil Type:
GL-4 SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90 gear oil.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, suspension bushings, exhaust system corrosion, radiator and hoses, starter motor brushes, alternator bearings.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can be prone to minor electrical faults over time, often related to wiring insulation or connector corrosion.
Timing Belt Failure Risk:
Critical to adhere to replacement intervals. Failure often leads to bent valves and piston damage.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, sill panels, rear spring mounting points, boot floor.
Manufacturer:
Renault S.A. (France)
Reputation:
Known for innovative and practical small cars, often with distinctive styling.
Design Inspiration:
The 'smiley face' design and innovative interior layout, including the sliding rear bench seat, were groundbreaking for its class.
Facelifts Updates:
Minor updates occurred during its production run, including revised trim levels, minor styling tweaks, and engine upgrades to meet emissions standards.
Production Period:
1993-2007 (for the first generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily France (SMC - Société des Mécanismes et des Composants), also Slovenia (Revoz).