18th Oct 2010, 11:55

I have a 1997 Renault Laguna RT 1.8 (old model) that I have driven for 10 years.

Recently, two valves have broken, and I have been told that to repair is probably going to cost more than the value of the car. This was by an independent garage in Spain.

As second hand cars in Spain tend to be more expensive than the U.K. I'm wondering if anyone has any thoughts about the best way to go.

I have been told by other local Brits that once you have a major problem with the engine on a 13 year old car, you are better off getting rid, as it will probably cause a lot more problems in the future.

Any comments please?

Terry, Murcia.

11th Nov 2010, 16:13

I am on my second Laguna, and went from a 1.8RT Sport to a 2.2 RTDT. Don't know why; I just love these cars.

The comfort is second to none. No-one makes bucket seats like the french!

The only problem I have, is sometimes water soaks into the passenger footwell. What's that all about?

12th Nov 2010, 04:19

Re: passenger footwell leak.

On most cars I would firstly check the drain for the cabin air intake/pollen filter housing is clear and not full of water. If the chamber partly blocked, it will only clear very slowly, and overfill if left on a hill or in heavy rain if it cannot clear quickly enough. Find the drain pipe and clear the mulch out of it, but do not hose through, as that can fill car with water! Use a small jug with funnel - slowly.

Secondly check seals around door, windscreen, wing mirror, and see if plastic inner door skin behind trim is intact (can be damaged if fitting aftermarket speakers).

If car is losing coolant, check heater matrix.

Corrosion in the wheel arch or front of sill can cause leaks too.

Sunroof drains are a very slight possibility.

Hope this helps - I would bet on the air intake drain being full of crud.