1996 Renault Megane RT from UK and Ireland - Comments

Intermittent failure to start - traced to a faulty connection on the TDC sensor (14,000 miles) - replaced free of charge.

Rear silencer rusted through at a weld (18,500 miles) - replaced free of charge.

Clock/external temperature display bulb failed (16,000 miles)

Alternator belt snapped (27,000 miles)

Oil leak from a tappet cover - gasket not fitted correctly (35,000 miles).

Excellent value for money, good equipment level.

Good build quality.

Comfortable and roomy with a large boot.

Superb fuel economy (average 43 mpg)

I have now owned the Mégane for 9 years and 8 months (June 2006) and the mileage is 70,000. Fuel consumption has averaged 40 mpg.

Since posting the original report I have had very few problems with the car and it still looks good both inside and out. There is absolutely no rust to the bodywork.

Apart from regular service items such as oil, filters, plugs, wiper blades and tyres (I do my own servicing) problems/maintenance have been:

New exhaust (from rear of catalyst) at 37,800 miles

Front brake pads at 40,600 miles

Thermostat at 42,000 miles

Cat converter bracket cracked (welded) at 43,000 miles

Cam belt changed at 61000 miles

Front brake discs and pads replaced at 63,000 miles

Broken front o/s coil spring replaced at 66,000 miles. (I obtained a second hand spring/shock absorber unit from a scrap yard for £20 and fitted it in less than an hour).

There is a rattling or knocking noise on occasions that I've traced to the sunroof, but have so far been unable to cure. If I push firmly against the glass the noise disappears.

I have to conclude that the Mégane has been a very reliable and comfortable car that has exceeded our expectations. Although it has very little residual value it still has bright, shiny paintwork and looks smart.

I'm confident that it will continue to give excellent service for years to come.