When you're buying a used Renault, you know how important it is to go through the checklist. You know the one; the checklist that helps you identify that the vehicle hasn't been stolen and is fit for the road. It looks like this:
- Ask for the make, model, MOT test number, and registration number. Then, go online to the DVLA website to check that all these details match the records for the vehicle.
- Do a check to see if the MOT is up-to-date and see if the MOT history aligns with the information you have been given.
- Ask the seller if you can see the log book, or V5C registration certificate. Look at the certificate has the DVL watermark and that the serial number for the vehicle isn't B12305501 to B12800000 or BG8229501 to BG9999030. According to the Government, these serial numbers can indicate that the car has been stolen.
- Check the DVLA website to see if the log book is the latest one issued. Most today are now red, but some older ones may not be. While you're on the site, evaluate the details in the logbook and determine if they match the information provided to you by the DVLA.
- Look at the engine number and VIN number. These should match the numbers given in the logbook.
While making sure that the Renault you're buying is MOT ready and doesn't require a discreet call the to police is very important, there are other things you'll need to think about as well. Renaults may be dependable and trustworthy vehicles, but they have problems just like any other car. Before you buy, you need to know what those problematic car parts are so you're prepared for their replacement or repair costs.
Let's consider two of the most prominent Renault models, the Megane and the Master. Both have different qualities that may make them a better choice for you. However, the common problems they are likely to have throughout your ownership may tip the scale when it comes to you deciding which one is best for you to purchase.
Renault Parts: Common Problems With the Master
The Renault Master has been produced since 1980 and is a large van that comes in a variety of body styles. They have large storage areas, a fantastic range of diesel engines, and are very practical. However, they are not very refined. They also have a few problems you might have to take care of during their lifetime.
- Knocking Noise- Many owners report hearing knocking noises from the front of the car, a problem is that most often caused by an issue with the front suspension. The Renault parts that are responsible are typically the top or bottom suspension joints. It can sometimes even be both. Solving this issue requires a replacement of the joints at fault.
- Cutting Out- When the engine cuts out or the Renault has issues starting, the first car part you might suspect is the battery. In this case, though, it is much more likely to be the fuel injectors. Unfortunately, a replacement is necessary, which means you'll need to visit a professional to have tests done to determine which injector is causing all of the mess.
- Clunking Noise- A clunking noise coming from the rear of the car is often caused by an issue with the rear wheel bearings. The wheel bearing that is faulty will have to be replaced in order to stop the noise.
- Heavy Steering- Some drivers report that their Renault Master has experienced problems with extremely heavy steering. In many cases, the steering was so heavy, it was almost unmovable. The problem discovered was a pulley drive belt that had been split or broken. Once replaced, the issue was gone.
Renault Parts: Problems With Your Megane
As one of the most popular cars in Europe, we've discussed some of the most common problems that the Megane has had before in the GSF blog. For all of you who may just now be finding us, though, let's take a brief refresher course.
The Megane has been in production since 1995 and is a small family car. Meganes are well-built with a concentration on excellent safety features. They are also affordable and reliable, making them the top choice of many families. They do have some faults, though, like:
- Poor Engine Running and Idling- This issues is often caused by problems with the ignition coils. Ignition coils are Renault parts that are responsible for transforming the low voltage of the battery into the thousands of volts required to create the electric spark your spark plugs need in order to ignite fuel. When they aren't working problems, the engine has a hard time functioning. Replace these car parts for the best results.
- Poor Performance- The Megane is a good, reliable car. So, when it starts acting up or not performing as well, you know there is a problem that has to be dealt with. If this occurs in the diesel versions, the issue is most likely the Diesel Particulate Filter, or DPF. This filter is responsible for reducing the exhaust system's emissions and keeping harmful particulates from entering our air. If the performance is suffering, the filter may not be getting hot enough to burn off the harmful particulates. The first step to correcting this is to take it out on the motorway and drive it in third gear for at least 10 minutes. If this doesn't help the performance or turn off the warning light on your dashboard, you'll need to replace the filter, the oil, and the oil filter.
- Engine Whining- If the engine whines or sometimes vibrates, especially when the engine is cold, there could a few different issues. It might be a clip that has broken on the fuel line or an inlet pipe that is vibrating. Figuring out which part is at fault and replacing it will stop the rattling and the noise.
Looking for a great car? There are several steps you need to take when considering a Renault purchase. Make sure you're ready to thoroughly go through the checklist and prepare.
