⚡ Performance: 45 HP vs 65 HP
The Spring is optimized for city traffic and short trips. The two versions change the everyday usability :
- 45 HP : adequate in the city; limited acceleration and quick turns. Overtaking must be planned.
- 65 HP : more responsive when starting off and going uphill; it's the balanced choice for relaxed urban use.
- Extra-urban/motorway : not its terrain; noise and fuel consumption increase, comfort and range decrease.
Technical advice : if you often tackle hills , roundabouts or busy intersections, aim for the 65 HP .
🔌 Charging: AC, DC and firmware
Charging is the area with the most reports in real use, especially in public AC.
- Home AC : A 7 kW single-phase wallbox with load management is preferable. Avoid extension cords and unsuitable sockets.
- Public AC : Sessions may fail to start or be interrupted. This is often caused by a combination of a worn Type-2 cable , an incompatible charging station , or firmware updates.
- DC fast : useful only if the DC option is present. In general, the Spring performs best with slow and scheduled charging.
- Best practices : Limit daily SOC to 80–90% , avoid long stops at 100%, and schedule overnight charging.
If charging is unstable : try another point/cable, reset the column, check for updates in the workshop and read any DTCs with OBD to exclude battery/charging management errors.
🔋 Actual autonomy (summer/winter)
As with all compact EVs, cold weather has a significant impact on real-world range.
- Winter : noticeable drop in power due to cold battery and passenger compartment heating.
- Guide : Progressive acceleration, intelligent regeneration and correct tyre pressure make the difference.
- Pre-conditioning : Warm up/cool down while charging to preserve battery life and comfort.
🧩 Interior quality: wear and tear and care
Functional but essential materials: with little care, wear and tear occurs quickly.
- Plastics : Early scratches and polishing on panels and tunnel.
- Seats : padding that sags when loaded with heavy objects; avoid sharp edges.
- Seals : Check seals and lubricate them after roller car washes.
Prevention : rubber mats, breathable seat covers and neutral detergents keep the passenger compartment more intact over time.
🧪 Quick diagnostics: what to check
- OBD : Read DTCs for BMS/charging; monitor cell temperature sensors.
- Charging : cross-test with another Type-2 cable and another charging station; check vehicle firmware.
- HVAC : make sure the heating is not overdrawn (abnormal consumption when parked).
- Tires : even pressure and wear (an EV weighs more, under-inflated tires “eat up” range).
📊 Problem table → symptoms → intervention
| Area | Symptoms | Probable causes | Recommended intervention |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC Charging | Session does not start/stops | Worn Type-2 cable, incompatible column, firmware update needed | Try another cable/point, reset the column, update the software in the workshop |
| Autonomy | Marked decline in winter | Cold battery + HVAC use | Pre-conditioning in charge, gentle driving, correct tire pressure |
| Performance | Slow recovery/shortness of breath | 45 HP engine, vehicle load | Prefer 65 HP, avoid demanding routes |
| Interiors | Scratches/creaks | Basic finishes, loose clips/panels | Anti-vibration felt pads, plastic/seal care |
🛡 Buying and usage tips
- Usage profile : City only? The Spring makes sense. Frequent suburban/highway driving? Consider an EV with a larger battery/motor.
- Engine : choose the 65 HP for greater safety when entering/climbing.
- Charging : Install a 7 kW wallbox with load management at home; if you need DC, check the option on the datasheet.
- Software : ask for updates on delivery and during servicing.
- Interior : Inspect plastics/seats/seals and test drive over potholes/bumps to hear any creaks.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dacia Spring 45 HP too slow?
It's fine in the city, but the 65 HP is quicker on starts and up hills. It's not the ideal car for extra-urban/highway driving.
Why does AC charging sometimes not start?
Often it's the Type-2 cable or the post ; sometimes a firmware update is enough. Try another point/cable and check at the shop.
How much real range does it have in winter?
Expect a noticeable drop due to cold battery and heating. Preconditioning while charging helps a lot.
Do the interiors wear out quickly?
Essential materials: with care (neutral detergents, seat covers, and floor mats), wear and tear can be kept under control. Lubricate the seals regularly.
Do you really need a home wallbox?
For convenience and safety, yes: a 7 kW single-phase allows for regular nighttime charging and preserves the home system.
