Common Problems with the Dacia Duster
Ellie Dyer-Brown, 2 years ago
5 min read
- Dacia
- Common problems
WhoCanFixMyCar uncovers some of the problems drivers have reported with the Dacia Duster, including how much you can expect to pay for repairs.
If you're looking for a compact crossover SUV with all the bells and whistles, the Dacia Duster isn't for you. It isn't fast, it isn't fancy, and it doesn't possess the refinement of some of its competitors. But make no mistake, what the Duster lacks in style, it more than makes up for in practicality and affordability. Recent generations also have a reputation for being extremely reliable.
This guide discusses common problems you should look out for if you own or are considering buying a Dacia Duster. Known pain points include:
Poor interior quality
Catalytic converter issues
What's wrong with the Dacia Duster?
Duster drivers often search for information about the following problems.
Dacia Duster gearbox problems
Some people report problems with the gearbox of their Dacia, particularly that the car jolts while changing gear and makes an unpleasant clunking sound. The noise may be due to a lack of lubrication, in which case the gear oil needs topping up.
Dacia Duster electrical problems
You can often trace issues with the Duster's electrical system to a bad fuse. Fortunately, it's reasonably easy to replace fuses yourself, and even if you decide to book a mechanic to do the job for you, it still won't cost much.
Dacia Duster AdBlue problems
AdBlue seems to cause problems in almost every type of car, so it's no surprise the Duster is also affected. The 'check antipollution' warning usually appears on the dashboard, despite sufficient fluid level. According to some mechanics, the AdBlue pump needs replacing, and you should also change the additive brand since the factory one is of poor quality.
Dacia Duster DPF problems
Like all diesel cars, if you don't drive your Duster on lengthy motorway journeys every so often, the DPF will likely become clogged. When this happens, your vehicle will usually go into limp mode and may struggle to start.
Dacia Duster 2010-2013 problems
The Dacia Duster is a small SUV that came out in 2010. If you're thinking about buying one, make sure you check it for the following problems first.
1. Poor tracking
One of the most common issues is that the car pulls to the left while driving, indicating a problem with the wheel tracking.
What repair is needed for poor tracking, and how much does it cost for a Dacia Duster?
You can usually solve this problem by taking your vehicle to the garage to fix its tracking, but some drivers report that the problem persists. If this happens, you should contact Dacia directly, who will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
On average, wheel tracking costs £44.67 for a Dacia Duster when you book through WhoCanFixMyCar.
2. Faulty catalytic converter
Some Dusters develop problems with their catalytic converters, usually beginning with a warning light appearing on the dashboard.
What repair is needed for a faulty catalytic converter, and how much does it cost for a Dacia Duster?
Unfortunately, you will have to replace the catalytic converter, which is usually an expensive job. On average, it costs £234.17 to replace the catalytic converter of a Dacia Duster.
3. Rust
Due to the bodywork and paint, Dusters may be more susceptible to rust, especially white models. A few owners report that their brand new car came with rust when they bought it.
What repair is needed for rust, and how much does it cost for a Dacia Duster?
If you buy a brand new Dacia Duster and find it has rust, Dacia will likely repair it for free. On the other hand, if your Duster develops rust later, you'll have to pay for a repair. Depending on the extent of the damage, you could even repair the rust yourself - find out how in this guide.
The price of repairing rust depends on the damage to the vehicle; a small patch of surface-level rust will be considerably cheaper than extensive penetrating rust.
4. ECU faults
The engine control unit may develop a fault which triggers a warning light on the dashboard, and the vehicle goes into limp mode. When plugged into a diagnostic system, the car displays several error codes.
What repair is needed for ECU faults, and how much does it cost for a Dacia Duster?
You can repair ECU problems by plugging the vehicle into a computer and reprogramming it or updating the software. On average, ECU repairs cost £289.00 when you book through WhoCanFixMyCar.
Dacia Duster 2010-2013 recalls
There have been two recalls of the Dacia Duster, neither of which occurred between 2010-2013.
Dacia Duster 2013-2018 problems
Look out for the following issues.
1. Damaged alloys
The Duster is a practical, rather than refined, SUV, so if you're buying one second-hand, it may have been used hard by families who care less about its outward appearance. Check the bodywork and alloys for any scuffs and scrapes.
What repair is needed for damaged alloys, and how much does it cost for a Dacia Duster?
You may be able to repair damaged alloys yourself with the right tools and a little patience; this guide explains how. Alternatively, if the damage is extensive, you can use WhoCanFixMyCar to find a local mechanic to do it for you. A Duster alloy wheel refurb costs £85.00 on average for one wheel.
2. Clogged DPF
You must drive diesel engines regularly on motorways so the diesel particulate filter (DPF) gets hot enough to regenerate. High speeds trigger this process, so if you only go on short city journeys, the DPF will eventually become clogged, causing your car to go into limp mode.
What repair is needed for a clogged DPF, and how much does it cost for a Dacia Duster?
Most of the time, DPF cleaning should be able to solve the problem. On average, this costs £174.16 based on our data. However, if the DPF needs replacing, it will cost considerably more.
3. Electrical issues
There is a known problem with the electrical wiring in the horn system of some Dusters, which can result in one or more safety faults.
What repair is needed for electrical issues, and how much does it cost for a Dacia Duster?
Dacia recalled affected vehicles in 2017, so an expert technician can repair them for free at a dealership. Otherwise, on average, Duster electrical issues cost £58.33 when you book through WhoCanFixMyCar.
4. Noisy engine
The Dacia Duster is notorious for having a noisy engine. While this isn't a problem as such, it is a source of annoyance for many drivers.
What repair is needed for a noisy engine, and how much does it cost for a Dacia Duster?
Unfortunately, the Duster is naturally noisy - there isn't a way to fix this problem other than to buy a different car.
5. Corrosion
Like its predecessor, the 2013-2018 Dacia Duster is also vulnerable to corrosion on the chassis. Keep an eye out for any signs of rust; if you spot any, get it treated straight away, or it will spread and eventually cause severe damage.
What repair is needed for corrosion, and how much does it cost for a Dacia Duster?
Again, the answer to this question depends on the extent of the damage. The best way to get a price estimate is to post a job on WhoCanFixMyCar, where you can compare quotes.
Dacia Duster 2013-2018 recalls
| Recall Date | Reason |
|---|---|
| 19-Sep-17 | Incorrect wiring in the horn system can cause one or more safety faults |
Dacia Duster 2018-present problems and recalls
There isn't much data available about this generation of the Duster because it hasn't been on our roads for very long. However, some issues that drivers have identified so far are:
Blocked DPF
Interior scuffs and damage
Faulty ignition switch
| Recall Date | Reason |
|---|---|
| 03-Nov-20 | Risk of the key jamming in the start position causing potential damage to the starter motor |
If you're having trouble with your Dacia Duster, WhoCanFixMyCar can help you find the right garage at the right price, whatever you need.
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