1. Home
  2. / Automotive
  3. / Renault Kwid: Brazil’s cheapest car turns into a headache at the workshop, has its engine disassembled and shows that delayed maintenance can be much more expensive than many people imagine
Reading time 3 min of reading Comments 0 comments

Renault Kwid: Brazil’s cheapest car turns into a headache at the workshop, has its engine disassembled and shows that delayed maintenance can be much more expensive than many people imagine

Published on 12/05/2026 at 19:50
Be the first to react!
React to this article

Brazil’s cheapest car underwent complete disassembly after persistent engine failures, exhaust noise, cold start oscillation, and severe signs of internal wear that led mechanics to consider a total engine replacement as the most viable solution

Brazil’s cheapest car, a Renault Kwid followed by the Carros com Tiago channel, underwent disassembly after presenting persistent failures, a perforated exhaust noise, and engine oscillation, especially during the first cold start.

The vehicle had already received a new exhaust, probe replacement, and fuel pump substitution, but it continued to run irregularly. During the evaluation, the use of exhaust sealant was shown in an area where it should not have been applied.

Brazil’s Cheapest Car Had Cylinder Head Identified as a Serious Problem

The investigation began with the suspicion of a more serious defect in the cylinder head. The 1.0 Renault engine was identified as the same one used in the Sandero 1.0 and Logan 1.0, with changes in some fittings.

The central question was whether Brazil’s cheapest car would also have the country’s cheapest maintenance. The process began to monitor the Kwid’s condition and the possible cost of the necessary intervention.

During disassembly, the internal condition drew attention. The evaluation pointed to a lack of maintenance, possible overdue oil change, use of incorrect oil, or improper lubricant application as probable causes for the observed situation.

Engine Revealed Clogged Oil Pickup and Internal Wear

With the engine open, the heavily clogged oil pickup was shown. The evaluation indicated that, in any case, the engine would stop quickly, as the obstruction compromised proper circulation within the assembly.

The car was not associated with a long period of being stationary. The condition found was related to its maintenance history, and disassembly progressed until the engine was completely open for analysis of its internal parts.

In the oil pan, there was a large accumulation of residue. The inspection also showed significant play in the guides, pronounced wear on the pulley teeth, and the need to replace the complete timing chain kit, should recovery be chosen.

Engine Replacement Considered More Advantageous Than Reconditioning

After disassembly, two possibilities were presented: general reconditioning or engine replacement. The evaluation indicated that replacing it with a new engine would be more worthwhile given the set of problems found.

In addition to the play in the guides and pulley wear, the engine showed axial play. The cylinder was highly polished, and oil burning appeared as another significant sign of internal deterioration.

The technical conclusion was that it was not worth repairing the assembly in the presented conditions. The most suitable alternative considered was to replace the engine, as reconditioning would involve numerous components and a broad scope.

The Kwid Saga Continues: New Engine, Used, or Reconditioning

The case revealed that Brazil’s cheapest car can face heavy repairs when maintenance is not performed correctly. The analyzed Kwid accumulated failures, previous replacements, and defects that persisted even after interventions.

The sequence left open which path will be adopted: a new engine, a used engine, or reconditioning. The saga of the Renault Kwid will continue to follow the outcome of the maintenance and the real impact of the problem on the vehicle.

Sign up
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
most recent
older Most voted
Built-in feedback
View all comments
Tags
Fabio Lucas Carvalho

Journalist specializing in a wide variety of topics, such as cars, technology, politics, naval industry, geopolitics, renewable energy, and economics. Active since 2015, with prominent publications on major news portals. My background in Information Technology Management from Faculdade de Petrolina (Facape) adds a unique technical perspective to my analyses and reports. With over 10,000 articles published in renowned outlets, I always aim to provide detailed information and relevant insights for the reader.

Share in apps
0
I'd love to hear your opinion, please comment.x