Clio gearbox slipping

I drive a Clio too, and your symptoms sound familiar. The transfer case is a critical part of the drivetrain – if it goes, everything else is at risk. But before you condemn the gears, have you checked the condition of the transfer fluid itself? Low or contaminated fluid can mimic those exact symptoms.

Good point. I haven't checked the fluid itself yet. Assumed 'oil wear fault' meant the gears were shot. How would I check the condition of the fluid, and what should I be looking for?

The fluid should be relatively clean and honey-colored. If it's dark, sludgy, or has a metallic sheen, that indicates contamination and internal wear. It's like checking the oil in your engine – you're looking for signs of trouble. Given the fault code and your symptoms, a workshop visit is probably unavoidable to inspect the gears, but it’s best to rule out the simple things first.

Okay, I appreciate the insights. Turns out the transfer case was indeed the culprit, as suspected. New gears and transfer fluid change set me back 330€. Shifts like new again!