Problems with the inverter in the Renault 5 and Alpine A290?

In France, almost all Renault 5 and Alpine A290 cars delivered so far have to return to the workshop. Apparently, there is a problem with the inverter, which can cause the cars not to start.

The French portal L’Argus reports that 15,722 Renault 5 and Alpine A290 vehicles assembled in Douai between 1 September and 23 December 2024 are potentially affected – almost all vehicles delivered to date. Customers will be informed by email or via the ‘My Renault’ app. Renault emphasised to L’Argus that this is not a recall, but a “special technical operation.”

According to the report, “some” owners of the vehicles had received a warning message via the app mentioning “the detection of a possible malfunction on the vehicle.” Customers were asked to make an appointment with the dealer “to carry out a free check and, if necessary, the necessary work.”

The problem is likely caused by the inverter, which converts the direct current from the battery into alternating current for the electric motor. The component is extremely important for the function and efficiency of the electric drivetrain. Renault installed the inverter together with other components such as cooling, control electronics, and the energy converter for subsystems in a ‘power box.’ it is the source of the malfunction, likely caused by problems with the inverter.

There has apparently not been any damage. Starting issues are due to “inappropriate monitoring modes,” meaning that workshops can simply reprogramme the inverter’s control unit, which, according to the manufacturer, should take around 30 minutes.

But that could not be the end of the story. In some cases, moisture is said to have penetrated the charge level indicator placed on the front bonnet. According to L’Argus, several owners have reported foggy glass on the inside. Renault also confirmed this to the portal and spoke of “a few rare cases.” The affected customers should contact an authorised workshop, which will then inspect the vehicle.