Replaced timing belt at 120,000 - $400.
Replaced ignition leads - $150.
CV joints worn - replaced both drive shafts - $600 each.
Radiator hose - $50.
Injectors - $500.
Radiator fan relay switch had to be replaced twice - $100 each.
Fuel gauge has never worked properly but the other trip computer functions work fine - who needs a fuel gauge anyway in a talking car - it tells you when you need to fill up with at least 100km left in the tank.
The 1988 25GTX is a highly reliable, underrated grand tourer with brilliant road manners. Good low down torque makes it easy to drive around the city and smooth 2.2 litre J engine, the same engine in my previous car, the Peugeot 505, has enough in it for safe high speed touring - it could do with more power for quick overtaking but if you know the limitations of the car you don't get into situations that prove a problem.
The previous original owner was president of the Australian Renault club so was fastidious with servicing and garaging.
The metallic paint work is still like new and there are no signs of wear inside.
The leather upholstery has aged beautifully. No cracks or obvious wear which is unusual for a European car exposed to the brutal Aussie sun.
The gear box has never given me any trouble except for some minor leaking which is insignificant. The engine is pretty much indestructible if it is regularly serviced. I am encouraged reading other reviews on this page, particularly someone who has a 25GTX with 389,000 kms on the clock.
Very few of these were imported into Australia - they are now worth nothing because no one knows anything about them - including mechanics. It is important to have a good non-dealer mechanic who knows French cars. Like the Peugeot 505, this is the cheapest car to maintain I have ever owned.
The styling may have dated, but it still turns plenty of heads when I drive it in the city.
A great car, very reliable and beautifully poised. I hope to have it for another 5 years.
I was told I can change the drive shafts over when the CV joints make enough noise (230,000kms and still quiet) -- they are the same length and so when left is put on the right side and vice versa they will run OK -- I have no proof or heresay to back it up -- heard this from a mechanic who knew this model... he says... worth investigating perhaps.
Dated looks? Maybe. But my wife drives a 1991 GTD, and I must admit I like its looks the longer the more. It's simply a classic. Marcello Gandini did a great job.
The Renult 25 2.165 GTX is a fine car, but mine does have problems with the auto gearbox. I owned and riven the car for 5 years and the worst problem is allowing Renault dealers anywhere near the car. Also beware of so called experts, all the do is rip you off. I will continue
to keep my R25 as it it a pleasure to drive when its behaving as it should.
Bob Plain.
Luton Bedfordshire England 01582 611402.
I have a 25 GTX Renault and both door locks have jammed, I am wanting to purchase one suitable lock with a key could anyone advise me of a dealer in such a thing smellyfitzelly@hotmail.com.
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