2002 Renault Laguna Dynamique review from UK and Ireland

Engine management light comes on with limp home mode, stopping the car and restarting usually fixed this. (This has been fixed by replacing the glow plugs, 3 of which were faulty)

Starter motor spins noisily without actually turning the engine. (Has only done this once since above repair)

Tyre pressure monitors... say no more! Apparently Peugeot use an identical system, but theirs works!

Gearbox (6 speed manual) failed at 34,000 miles, replaced under warranty. The differential collapsed, pushing a drive shaft out which also damaged a brake disc & brake caliper. That explains why the ABS light came on and the brake pedal fell to the floor when the gearbox failed! The new gearbox has now completed 32,000 miles and is starting to whine in 3rd, 4th & 5th gears. Dealer says there is nothing wrong with the gearbox...

Clutch pedal developed a mind of its' own by constantly changing the bite point, usually while stationary in gear waiting to pull away. Eventually clutch pedal goes flat to the floor, just got car back having had the clutch master cylinder replaced.

Intercooler cracked (air side, not coolant side) causing a loss of power, it was replaced under warranty.

Keycard failed, replaced under warranty.

Alloy wheels buckled on inside, these wheels do not like potholes! Also, two different tyre dealers have commented that the wheels (undamaged ones) appeared to be 'oval'. This was observed when balancing them, this doesn't appear to affect the car at all.

I have a 2002 1.9dCi. Fortunately for me it is a company car because it has suffered many faults.

Although I have experienced some really inconvenient breakdowns, some irritating minor faults and some poor dealer service, I like the car a lot. I chose it for its' safety features, its' low CO emissions (= low BIK tax), its' power (3.0 V6 equaling torque plus 50+ mpg can't be bad), it's generous equipment (equivalent spec Mondeo was £2K dearer) and it is a handsome car. I like the way it handles and its' space and comfort. One thing about frequent visits to the garage is that I have had plenty of opportunity to drive other cars. I must say that I always enjoy getting back into my Laguna.