1999 Renault Laguna RT Alize review from UK and Ireland

Brakes - Rear wheel cylinder now leaking.

Exhaust manifold gasket leaking slightly, and the rest of the exhaust is not much better. The catalytic converter still original and intact (8 years on).

Heater blower only works on Number 4 (a common fault on Mondeos as well).

Bonnet release catches, left and right side, have both seized, resulting in the bonnet not locking down - this is a very common fault - WD40 frees them, and then spray grease them, unless you want your bonnet opening and smashing the windscreen on the motorway!

It's a very good car for 8 years old, and the above points could relate to any make or model of this age. It's really comfy and good looking - why did Renault spoil these lovely lines to produce the new Megane?

It's a superb engine for its size - the best in its class at 110 BHP for a 1.6, and although it's no Ferrari, it will still reach 118 MPH (on the test track that is!!).

Mine has slightly noisy tappets now, so try Slick 50 to prolong yours, as this car will go on for ages, as the bodywork is still corrosion free (apart from the obvious bits in the underside).

Air-con is great, and all the electrics apart from the blower fan still work OK.