Common Problems with the Renault Megane

Charlotte Phillips, 1 year ago

3 min read

  • Renault
  • Common problems
Renault Megane

WhoCanFixMyCar discusses some of the common problems drivers have reported with the Renault Megane, and how much it should cost on average to get them repaired.

First launched in 1996, the Renault Megane is a small family coming as successor to the Renault 19 from the French auto manufacturer. The Megane has undergone a number of facelifts over the years, ranging from a hatchback to a saloon, a coupé, convertible and estate, with the model proving to be highly popular over the years.

However, drivers have also experienced some problems with the model. Some common problems with the Renault Megane include:

Some of these faults have resulted in Renault announcing recalls on affected Megane models, which you can read about in the table below.

Renault Megane recent recalls

Renault Megane loss in performance

Renault Megane catalytic converter failure

Renault Megane rough engine running and idling

Renault Megane fuel leaks

Renault Megane reliability


Renault Megane recent recalls

Affected model datesIssue
26/06/2019 - 01/07/2019The catalytic converter does not function properly
20/09/18 - 20/06/19Fuel line may be damaged, which could result in a fuel leak
13/9/2018 – 15/11/2018The capacitors may crack under mechanical stress of the electronic board and overheat
29/9/2016 – 30/10/2016The window airbags may not inflate in the event of an accident

Renault Megane loss in performance

Some drivers have experienced a loss of performance with their Renault Megane, with the main symptom of this being a loss of engine power. When this problem occurs, you will likely find that your DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) light will illuminate on the dashboard.

Your DPF is responsible for reducing harmful engine emissions, and when this gets blocked with soot or develops a fault, your engine cannot burn off these emissions. As a result, the performance of your engine can noticeably decline, as well as your car’s fuel economy.

If you’ve noticed your car losing power or engine performance, it could be a problem with your DPF. Luckily, a DPF clean is a relatively straightforward procedure for a garage to complete.

The average quote for a DPF clean on a Renault Megane is £191.88 when booked with WhoCanFixMyCar.


Renault Megane catalytic converter failure

Many drivers have reported problems with the catalytic converter on their Renault Megane, with a recall announced on all Megane models built in 2019 in response. Over time, deposits can build up inside the catalytic converter causing it to become blocked. When the catalytic converter blocks, the component fails to convert the harmful substances from the engines emissions into safe gases, resulting in increased nitrogen dioxide emissions.

The average quote for catalytic converter repair on a Renault Megane is £344.87 when booked with WhoCanFixMyCar.


Renault Megane rough engine running and idling

Some Megane owners have also reported a rough running engine, not only when driving the car but also when idling.

A properly running engine should be smooth from the moment you start the engine to the engine running, and noise and vibration should be relatively minimal. You will usually notice this problem by yourself simply from the enhanced noise, vibrations and feeling of your engine’s performance not being the same as it used to be. When this happens, it’s likely that you’re dealing with an engine problem.

The average quote for an engine repair on the Renault Megane is £134.80 when booked with WhoCanFixMyCar.


Renault Megane fuel leaks

Another problem drivers have reported with the Renault Megane is with fuel leaking from the model. This problem resulted in Renault announcing a recall on Megane models manufactured in 2018 and 2019 due to the scale of the problem.

If you notice a fuel leak coming from your car, you mustn't ignore it. Not only is leaking fuel a major hazard for other drivers on the road, there’s also a chance that the fuel could leak into your exhaust system causing a fire to break out.

The average quote for a leak repair on the Renault Megane is £66.08 when booked with WhoCanFixMyCar.


Is the Renault Megane reliable?

The Renault Megane scores highly for reliability, with the average owner rating of the model scoring 4.8 out of 5 stars in CarBuyer’s online review. Additionally, the Megane scored a respectable 83% in the WhatCar? Reliability Survey, while Renault as a manufacturer failed to secure a position in the top half of their manufacturer reliability survey.

The Renault Megane scores well not only with drivers, but in overall safety too. The car safety experts Euro NCAP awarded the Renault Megane a stellar five out of five stars in their 2015 crash test review, with adult and child occupant safety scoring 88% and 87% respectively. The crash test has not been carried out again since then however, so it remains unknown how newer models of the Megane would fare in comparison.


Having problems with your Renault Megane? Here at WhoCanFixMyCar, we can help you find a trusted garage for the best price

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