Renault response to BBC Watchdog

As a manufacturer who takes any customer issue extremely seriously, Renault UK has shown concern where a customer has reported this experience, and reiterates that the safety of its customers is of paramount importance.

Renault has not found a manufacturing defect on the bonnet catch mechanism on the Clio II. All parts of the catch mechanism are accessible for lubrication. In the context of the amount of Clio II sold in the UK between 1998 and 2003 (350,000), there remains only a proportionately small number of cases where a problem with the bonnet catch mechanism has been reported.

Renault UK has carried out 34 inspections to date of Clio II's where the owner had reported this issue. The inspections were all attended by a representative from Renault UK's Technical department, a representative from the owner's individual insurance company and in some cases, by the customer unless they declined to attend.

Every inspection concluded that there was no manufacturing defect found and that the incident had occurred due to the bonnet not being closed properly as per the clear instructions in the vehicle handbook. The handbook clearly states that the customer should 'check that the bonnet is locked properly'.

However, we acknowledge that the reported incidents may cause our customers concern therefore, as a responsible manufacturer, Renault UK is very keen to ensure that it uses all means necessary to reassure its customers.

Renault continues to monitor any complaints regarding Clio II bonnets closely and as part of this, Renault UK has instructed its dealer network to check the condition of the bonnet lock mechanism and safety catch on all Renault vehicles during routine service and MOT - Renault.