Renault Scenic Problems

There is a fault associated with the auto transmission and the warning light is indicating as such when it comes on. The fact that loses power suggests that it is going into limp home mode, which is designed to give you enough power to drive on to a mechanic or dealer. That it isn't on when the mechanic checks it says that it is an intermittent fault, which can be hard to trace. I would take the car to a Renault specialist and have them check it.

Renault's offer is standard practice within the industry. The amount they pay is based on the age of the car, and the use you have had of the failed part until it broke. What they are saying is that they can't fit a part that is four years or so old and done 100,000 km or whatever your car has done, and by fitting a brand new part they are returning the car to new condition. In effect you are being asked to pay for the use you have had of the old part. It might be frustrating, but it's as good a deal as you are likely to get and I would go for it. The alternative, if you're up for a fight, is to seek advice from Victorian Consumer Appeals Tribunal (VCAT).

It really comes down to what you are comfortable with. Renault does send its mechanics and technicians overseas for factory training so they should be armed with knowledge to fix whatever problems owners have, but you do pay a price for that. My advice would be to use the dealer while the new car warranty is current, but then switch to a reputable mechanic after that, one that preferably has knowledge of Renaults.

HAVING done 111,000km in three years, the car has clearly been well used. The price is low, which reflects the higher mileage. If it has a noisy gearbox I'd consider walking away. The dealer seems keen to fix it, along with other problems, which makes me think he wants to unload it quickly. I'm guessing he reckons he's stuck with a lemon. It may be worth taking a risk, but offer him $12,000 and see if he's prepared to deal.

RENAULT says it is keen to import diesel models, especially the Grand Scenic, which is due about June/July. But the company has no confirmation or arrival times. In view of the current fuel situation, Renault is working hard to obtain a suitable diesel-engined vehicle for Australia.

I understand from Renault the dealer has been in contact with you with a view to having the shocks on your car replaced. Renault says a handful of vehicles were affected by the problem you describe and that it's easily remedied by replacing the shock absorbers.