All variants with factory fitted alarms – false alarms at random when locked, water entry into the multifunction module in the engine bay fuse box N/S.
1.5 DCi K9K engines engine warning light illuminated with cam sensor code P0341 in the system – camshaft woodruff key failure allowing valve timing to slip, don’t be tempted to just replace the belt.
Renault introduced a Start-Stop system on several of its power units for the Mégane in early 2012 and they now feature strongly throughout the range on both petrol and diesel variants.
As a result, early examples will now begin to be within reach of the independent sector, so workshops and the technicians undertaking service and repair work on these models, need to bear in mind that they are not fitted with traditional lead-acid starter batteries. Instead these models use either an EFB or AGM battery such as a Varta Blue Dynamic EFB or Silver Dynamic AGM and will therefore require specialist knowledge and equipment to ensure the correct removal and installation process is followed.
The 1.5dCi, 1.6i and 2.0TCe engines used extensively across the Mégane range are fitted with a Dayco High Tenacity (HT) or ‘white’ timing belt as its original equipment fitment. These units also feature a water pump that is integral to its timing drive system and which is driven by the HT timing belt. Therefore, workshops undertaking either a water pump or timing belt replacement, need to realise that only by fitting a Dayco HT timing belt kit can they be assured of a genuine like-for-like replacement.
Dayco offer a range of timing belt kits that also include an OE water pump and these kits, which naturally include references for the Mégane, are designated with a KTBWP part number reference.
Certain models in the Mégane range feature gearboxes with a self-adjusting clutch (SAC), which can be tricky to fit if the correct replacement process is not followed. Therefore, Borg & Beck recommend that before beginning the job technicians ensure that the self-adjusting springs on the replacement SAC remain compressed and have not become extended because of mishandling.
Although replacement normally requires the use of a mounting tool set, the cover can be fitted by using a driven plate centralising tool and an additional set of nine flywheel bolts with a 5mm longer thread stem. This will allow the clutch cover to be pulled onto the flywheel evenly, preventing de-adjustment caused by twisting during fitting.
Sven Nielsen, Technical Director from MEYLE, says the following difficulties may arise with the Renault Megane:
Loud metallic rolling noises are indicators of defective wheel bearings. Increased wheel bearing tolerances can also be diagnosed by tilting the wheel while the car is not under any strain. In order to prevent more serious damage or the complete loss of the wheel bearing, the driver should seek the assistance of a workshop as soon as possible.
On Renault Megane 1.5dCi diesel models (2009-2014). The Alternator pulley is prone to failure and either breaks or splits due to tensioning issue. This can result in damage to the belt and the alternator warning light coming on. It is recommended that the belt and tensioner are checked replaced to avoid failure of the replacement alternator.
For this particularly vehicle, Renault list a number of specifications for engine oil which should be covered by either Syner-G 5W40 or Ecoren 5W30. With a number of differing specifications depending on year and engine size and type.
VOSA have recalls logged against Megane, for models built from October 2009 to
March 2010, owing to loss of power steering. The fault could happen when the cable that supplies power to the power steering gets worn off. The power supply cable passes through the steering column.
Crankshaft sensors make up 34 percent of sales among the top ten selling Cambiare parts for the Megane. This suggests that it is a weak point for the car. Technicians looking to resolve a non-start problem would be well advised to start their investigations here.
An intermittent misfire could also be the result of a Camshaft sensor failure. Misfires could also be the result of a failing pencil coil, the second best seller in Cambiare’s top ten, taking 17 percent of the sales figures.
Preventive maintenance advice from ZF Services UK, for ZF automatic transmissions in the BMW 5 Series
The semi-synthetic oils developed for use in ZF 5-, 6- and 8-speed transmissions are maintenance-free under normal operating conditions, described as ‘lifetime fill’ by some vehicle manufacturers. However, some degradation of the oil inevitably occurs with time and mileage, which may result in noise, judder, or a deterioration in gear change quality. This can be avoided by carrying out a transmission oil and filter change after 50,000 to 75,000 miles.
Remy warn that BMW E60/E61 vehicles can suffer with leaking or noisy steering systems. Full diagnosis should be carried out however as symptoms of steering failure could also be one of any number of other issues. Standard vehicles are fitted with 2 racks, either with or without speed sensor. Vehicles with Active Steering have a unique hydraulic steering rack with an additional motor in the pinion housing to adjust the steering ratio. This is can be replaced without the need for reprogramming.