Praised for its affordability, prices for the SUV start at around £15,000, which is similar to what you’d be paying for a supermini. While it may not look as impressive as its competitors, it is designed for greater practicality and reliability. However, if you’re looking to buy a new or used Dacia Duster, you’ll probably also want to know what can go wrong. Here are some of the most commonly reported faults and past recalls for this model.
Common problems with the Dacia Duster
Electrical problems
As with most vehicles, electrical faults often appear as a result of something simple like a bad fuse. However, there have been a number of reports that the car horn is not working properly on some Duster models as there is a known issue with the horn’s electrical wiring.
ECU faults
In models produced between 2010 and 2013, more problematic electrical errors have occurred concerning the ECU. Owners have reported cases where an ECU fault has triggered a warning light and sent the car into limp mode. In these cases the ECU displays several error codes. It may be necessary to reprogramme ECU or update the software.
Gearbox problems
Some Dacia Duster owners have reported that the vehicle jolts or makes an abnormal clunking sound when changing gears. The cause may be as simple as a lack of lubrication. Make sure that there is enough gear oil and that you are using the right type.
Dacia Duster battery problems
There was a swift recall back in 2018 affecting certain models produced at the Pitesti factory. The cars weren’t starting because the positive terminal of the 12V batteries was incorrectly welded. While this issue was quickly resolved, you may encounter other battery-related problems such as charge maintenance issues.
Catalytic converter faults
Some people experience catalytic converter failure. The warning light should flash up on the dashboard to notify you as soon as there’s a problem.
Key jamming
There was a recent recall for models with a 1.5 dCi diesel engine that were manufactured between 1 September 2017 and 28 April 2018. There were incidents where the key was getting stuck in the start position, a situation which can cause damage to the starter. In some rare cases, this can cause the starter to overheat and burn.
Issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF)
If you’re purchasing a used diesel Dacia, make sure there are no DPF warning lights flashing on the dashboard. If the diesel car isn’t driven regularly on motorways or high-speed roads, the particulate filter won’t get hot enough to regenerate. This will cause it to become clogged much faster. Not only can this be costly to replace, but if the oil system gets contaminated with fuel, the oil levels will rise, which could lead to more costly engine repairs.
Dacia Duster AdBlue problems
AdBlue has been known to cause problems in a number of vehicles. For example, you may receive a ‘check antipollution’ warning despite normal diesel exhaust fluid levels. Sometimes a pump replacement is recommended. Using a high-quality additive may also help.
Buying a used Dacia Duster
If you want to buy a used Duster but are not satisfied with the condition of the interior, there are plenty of custom-made and universal accessories out there to help you spruce it up. For instance, you can use high-quality seat covers to cover up worn upholstery, as well as new car mats designed specifically for the Dacia Duster model.
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