What should I look out for when buying a Renault Laguna?

I am thinking of buying a 2004 Renault Laguna Estate 1.8 petrol, with 125,000 miles on the clock. What are the main things I should look for, considering the Laguna has such a bad reputation for reliability?

Dave Clarke (Carrigaline, Co. Cork.)

Jan 2012 Filed under: choosing used car

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Expert answer

Hi Dave,

This Laguna has a bad reputation, as you said. The two largest customer and reliability surveys in this part of the world consistently put it near the bottom in its class, which is not great, especially if you're considering a high mileage example.

However, because of all that the prices are low and I am guessing that you've got a bargain.

So, first thing to look at is if the car has had all its recall work done. Call a Renault dealer with its chassis number to confirm, as there were several recalls that applied to this car.

As with any used car check that every switch and control is working as expected and that all the warning lights come on when you turn on the ignition and go off again when the car is started.

Apparently the tyre pressure sensors are inaccurate as well, so check the pressures with a gauge for yourself.

Best of luck

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Adviser
@Shane_O_D