Used Renault Megane 2016-2022 reliability review
The Renault Mégane is good value and well equipped but it isn’t as practical as the best family cars.
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What's the used Renault Megane like?
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Reliability
Mark Pearson
Updated: 7 December 2023
How we test cars
What should I look for in a used Renault Megane?
The Mégane will have been used in the cut and thrust of urban car parks, so check the bodywork for scuffs and dents, especially the rear, because rear visibility for the driver isn't so good. Check the alloy wheels, if fitted, for any kerb damage.
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What are the most common problems with a used Renault Megane?
The Megane has had some issues with the diesel particulate filter clogging. This is often remedied by going for a long blast to clear the filter out; if that doesn’t fix it, remedial work – if not covered by warranty – can be expensive.
Recalls
In certain acceleration cases, the automatic gearbox software does not engage the clutch fully and therefore the driver could experience a loss of drive and/or engine judder. The gearbox overheating warning light may also be displayed and there is a risk of loss of acceleration and or engine jerk.
How the manufacturer will repair
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Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and update the software for the automatic gearbox.
Reason for recall
Non air-conditioned Megane and Scenics equipped with K4J or K4M engines with a pre-catalytic convertor fitted may have a hard brake pedal (lack of braking assistance). This is caused by the deterioration of the braking assistance pipe as it passes too close to the source of heat emitted by the pre-catalytic convertor.
How the manufacturer will repair
Recall affected vehicles and replace and/or reroute the brake assistance (vacuum) pipe.
With all these recalls, check with your local Renault dealer that all remedial work has been carried out.
Is a used Renault Megane reliable?
This Mégane didn't feature in our most recent What Car? Reliability Survey, as there were too few examples. You can view a list of the family cars section here.
Renault as a brand finished in a disappointing 23rd place out of 32 manufacturers in the latest survey, though. Its score of 90% put it above Audi, Jaguar and Mercedes, although below BMW, Ford and Peugeot. Check out the full list of manufactures here.
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Tips & Advice
Make sure you have warranty cover
New cars usually have warranties that last between three and seven years that can help cover the cost of mechanical faults. But this protection can last longer with an extended warranty
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About the writer
Name: Mark Pearson
Title: Used cars editor
Follow Mark Pearson on
Mark Pearson has been a motoring journalist for more than 15 years and is currently the used cars editor for What Car?.
Mark spent his formative years at the BBC, where, at various times, he scheduled, broadcast and archived television and radio programmes and researched, wrote and produced promotional material.
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