Faults:

Cruise control switch failed.

Creaking drivers seat. The seat lifting mechanism is not lubricated. Some spray grease fixes the problem.

Creaks and squeaks from the dashboard.

No cool air form the air con.

General Comments:

A challenge with regard to niggles was expected. So far dealer OK about fixing problems.

A fine cruiser and can be fun on winding roads when manual shifting is selected.

Pleasant interior and good sunroof compared with competition.

Faults:

Brakes failed due to electrical issues.

General Comments:

Update to a review I wrote a review on the 2001 car, which continues to be a complete nightmare electrically. Two weeks ago I had a problem with the car which resulted in the brakes going hard and not working. I had to use the handbrake and a curb to stop. Luckily I was not going very fast. The car has been waiting for a part for two weeks now (since 5th Dec 02). There is no expected delivery date. Sometime early next year!! To cap it all the dealer called me to let me know that they had identified the problem. I could collect the car anytime and rebook it in for repair when they got the part in!! Let me reiterate, the brakes stopped working when the fault occurs. I asked him if he would be happy to drive the car, he declined to answer. This just typifies the dealer, who does not have the technical capability to handle such a electrically complex and unreliable car.

Ian Humphreys

i.humphreys@ntlworld.com.

Faults:

First Day - Fuel Injection Fault. Car had to be recovered after 67 miles. Unknown problem which a battery disconnection and set solved.

Trip computer every so often tells me that my average fuel consumption is circa 94 miles to the gallon.

3 x faulty tyre pressure sensors replaced.

Intermittent computer reports of electrical issues. Mainly Fuel Injection or Tyre pressure sensors.

Air conditioning system does not work properly - ongoing battle to solve.

Keys have been replaced as they refused to open or lock the car.

Power steering solenoid failed - caused engine to cut in outside lane of a by pass.

Keys do not always open the boot - ongoing issue.

Electrical problem with dials. Speedo and rev counter spinning backwards and forwards whilst stationary and driving. Resolved itself, but still and unexplained problem.

Acceleration very jerky at low speeds. I have stalled this car more times an all my others put together, including when I first learnt to drive.

General Comments:

Do not buy this car unless you know that your local Renault dealer is exceptional.

Doors have week springs so that they close back on you easily.

Driveability of the 1.8 is poor.

Compared to my 406 Estate this car is not very smooth or comfortable.

Rear doors collect water so when you open them after rain you have to step back to avoid get a boot full.

Rear tail gate collects water so that when you open it you have to step back and let the water drain out before you can get to the rear space.

The Air conditioning should be the same as my 406 but alas it is not. Completely useless.

This is a company car and will get changed at 60k miles. Fantastic only 25K miles or 8 months to go before the nightmare is over. Thank goodness it is not my money. Anyone got some bricks?

Just for balance two good things about this car. Integral rear door blinds and split rear hatch - when it closes properly.

Oh did I mention Renault dealers - I hate them. I complained at my local one recently because I have spent so much time there that I have read all their magazines.