Choosing A Megane Sport 225

[jdcttp]

Hi all! I am new here.  I live in Melbourne and am looking to buy a car.  I would like some Renault experience advice.  I have searched around, researched a whole bunch and have now landed my pick on a Renault Megane sport 225.  As a lot of Megane owners has said that round ass grows on you… and I think its true! haha  Everything of this car seems to tick my boxes(even that ass)however I am reading some mixed info on this car here and there online and I want to know if its true.  

 

Some things I have read:

 

- that the parts are very expensive

- its minor and major services cost a lot

- its only good to own one if ur in the UK

- its engine bay is too complex therefore not many mechanics know how to tackle them in Victoria, Australia

- labour is super expensive of replacing/fitting parts

- changing a head lamp costs a few hundred bucks

 

 

Things like the above concerns me as I don't want to buy a car thats going to cost me more to fix it than to buy it, if that makes sense.  I am aware that maintenance will cost a bit more than some japanese cars as I previously had a Saab.  but my Saab still didn't cost me that much more than japanese cars, in fact at times it was probably cheaper.  Unless its my mechanic that has good connections… duno.

I initially was looking at the Clio Sport Mk2, but my mechanic told me that they are very expensive to run/service etc.  So I went on the search again and landed on the Megane RS 225.  If any one here can tell me how much I would be expecting for a minor and/or major service for a Renault Megane Sport 225 so I can budget that'll be awesome. Just want to do some simple calculations to make the right choice without being impulsive.

 

Another thing is, I read on one of the forums that I should either go for a phase 2 or phase 1 cup only, is that accurate? why is the phase 1 Sport no good?  I saw one on carsales that is within my budget and got excited until I read that I should not get that as handling is not as good.  Can anyone justify that for me please… 

 

Any Megane RS 225 buying experience you can share is much appreciated.

[Jensen]

A Clio 172/182 will be cheaper than any Megane 225 to run/service. No turbo, cheaper brakes/tyres, more fuel efficient etc.

 

Not saying the 225 will be absurd but if you think a clio is too expensive then you better go back to the drawing board.

Edited 5, February 2015 by Jensen

[My Name is Earl]

A Clio is tougher to work on. Timing belt labour costs for a Clio can be up to $300 dollars more then a Meg. After that though, you're on easy street. Easier on fuel, tyres, brakes etc.

Edited 5, February 2015 by My Name is Earl

[My Name is Earl]

I've had my r26 Megane 2 for nearly 1 year. 1k for a timing belt change. I've had 1 injector replaced at around $130. Front rotors worn. $300. I'm about to refresh my engine mounts. $608 from Renault. There's no record of the mounts ever being changed in 130,000km so I think this is pretty reasonable- especially with 3 enthusiasts owning the car. I've topped the oil up once since March 2014. 1 litre oil $15. Never had to top up any other fluids. So in a year I've spent 2k on what was a neglected example. Find a car with a complete service history and you might spend half of that in the time u have the car.

 

I agree parts can be hard to obtain. The dealer parts network can be at the mercy of the French and you could wait weeks for a simple part. Thankfully there are many connections on these forums that cut 3 weeks to 3 days or even 3 hours [emoji6] .

[chris043]

Parts for any European car are always going to be more expensive, Not only Renault but Citroen, BMW, VW etc. 

 

But if you enjoy these cars and look after them and service them regularly from new your expenses are not much greater than any other 'normal' car such as Toyota, Holden, Ford etc.

 

In your case, with a second hand car, as always, try and get a low mileage car with a good service record regardless of which model you choose.

 

I know this is all common sense but it has never failed me yet and I have owned all sorts of exotic cars over the last 50 years or so.    

[DOOOOK]

^^^ Some useful info above.

 

 

Another thing is, I read on one of the forums that I should either go for a phase 2 or phase 1 cup only, is that accurate? why is the phase 1 Sport no good?  I saw one on carsales that is within my budget and got excited until I read that I should not get that as handling is not as good.  Can anyone justify that for me please… 

 

 

Unlike the phase 2 and phase 1 cup, the phase 1 non-cup reportedly had sloppy steering and a less tuned suspension set up. I have a phase 1 non-cup but since I bought it I've done a few mods to it and I don't think it's too shabby.

[jdcttp]

Hi all,

 

thanks for sharing such detailed info guys.  It is much appreciated as I don't know anyone that owns a renault let alone a specific model like the Megane 225.  So what would be the approximate price range I'd be expecting for a minor and major service for the Renault Megane 225 and is it true that I have to seek specific mechanics to do the job? 

Also, some reviews I've watched saying that the Megane is a bitch to deal with, like the changing of the head lights require professionals which cost an arm and a leg is that true? Can I do those certain minor replacements and minor services myself or is it too complicating? 

 

@Earl - I suppose the Megane sport 225 won't cost as much as your r26 right? coz yours is of higher grades, correct?  

 

Well, I saw on carsales a 2005 phase 1 going for $7k which I was very keen, until I read up on one of the forums that phase 2 is the one to go with.  I have found a phase 2 for a bit over $10k, changed timing belt last sept and had recently completed a major service.  Is it worth my while to pay an extra $3k to get a phase 2? or i can do what Dooook did, get the phase 1 and mod it?

I also found a 3 door phase 2 Meggy but I personally like the 5 door more.  Can anyone tell me if theres much difference between the two?

 

 

sorry guys a lot of questions but theres not too many sources that can give me insights like this one Ive realised. 

 

cheers once again for all the replies!!!!

[My Name is Earl]

Hi all,

 

thanks for sharing such detailed info guys. It is much appreciated as I don't know anyone that owns a renault let alone a specific model like the Megane 225. So what would be the approximate price range I'd be expecting for a minor and major service for the Renault Megane 225 and is it true that I have to seek specific mechanics to do the job?

minor service $300-$500. Major $1000-$1200. Timing belt (major) is every 4 years

 

Normal mechanics can service Renaults. Will they service them without whining? No. When you work on fords and Holden's your whole career, well obviously something as alien as a Renault or a merc or any European car for that matter will stump you at some stage.

I lived in central Victoria and had my old Clio 172 serviced by my local mechanic. He performed timing belt changes, removed my gearbox to fix a busted gasket etc.

 

Your nearest Renault dealer can easily service your car. European specialists can provide better service for less money and more peace of mind.

 

Also, some reviews I've watched saying that the Megane is a bitch to deal with, like the changing of the head lights require professionals which cost an arm and a leg is that true? Can I do those certain minor replacements and minor services myself or is it too complicating?

if you can change plugs or injectors on a Toyota then u can do the same on a Renault. If you can change a filter on a Toyota then u can change a filter on a Renault.

The globes are a prick honestly, but to say a specialist is required is overkill. 10 bumper clips and 4 screws and hey presto you have access. It's a 15 minute job.

 

@Earl - I suppose the Megane sport 225 won't cost as much as your r26 right? coz yours is of higher grades, correct?

very broadly speaking, the differences between the 2 cars are a front diff, stickers and paint. Not much difference.

 

Well, I saw on carsales a 2005 phase 1 going for $7k which I was very keen, until I read up on one of the forums that phase 2 is the one to go with. I have found a phase 2 for a bit over $10k, changed timing belt last sept and had recently completed a major service. Is it worth my while to pay an extra $3k to get a phase 2? or i can do what Dooook did, get the phase 1 and mod it?

the phase 1, also known as the "lux" was hastily revised after less then stellar reviews. It was deemed to be too soft suspension wise, with poor steering feel and an inability to turn off ESP below 50kmh. The phase 2 revisions included stiffer suspension, a completely new steering rack setup, completely switchable ESP setup and a facelift and tail light revision. Which one you settle on depends on what you value in a car. A lux is a nice car to commute in, with plenty of overtaking power. A cup is great for more spirited driving and, if you care, hits the spot dynamically speaking.

 

A phase 2 for 10k with belts and service sounds like great value. The phase 1... Does it have its belts done? Because yes you may save 3 k over the phase 2, but you'll have to spend $1500 to get the phase 1 up to scratch. So call the phase 1 $8,500 and the phase 2 $10,000

I also found a 3 door phase 2 Meggy but I personally like the 5 door more. Can anyone tell me if theres much difference between the two?

the 3 door is 35kg lighter then the 5 door. Of course the 5 door is much more practical. Post a link to the car ad if you like.

 

So off the top of my head Id be looking for the following.

- Service history

- recent timing belt change

- fresh tyres

 

Be aware that the following items wear and may need replacing.

 

- engine mounts

- brake discs and pads

- coil packs

Edited 7, February 2015 by My Name is Earl

[jdcttp]

Hi Earl, 

 

thanks heaps for giving me such insight.  Sadly the phase 2 Renault Megane that I was referring to has been sold.  I want a car that not only has over taking power but I want the total package.  The phase 2 seems like the best fit for me but soon as I find one and its gone.  Such a tease.  It's going to be quite hard to come across another one at such value and condition I think.  The rest I have found are all phase 1s or phase 2, 3 doors that is within my budget. I am after a 5 door but unless i have to sacrifice my preference and get a phase 2, 3 door for the better package.  But those blue and black seats really hurts my eyes and the idea of a 3 door is not practical for me.  In saying so though,  I am also a bit reluctant to test drive the Megane 225 phase 2, 3 door coz Im afraid I might fall in love with it for its performance and make the wrong choices.  

However theres this one: 225 Phase 1 cup - http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Renault-Megane-2005/SSE-AD-3217615/?Cr=0

 

Just to confirm, so the phase 1 cup and the phase 2 have similar steering racks and ESP control ability if not the same?  

 

I think Ive seen this car on this site somewhere.  let me know your thoughts and whether it is worth the advertised price? 

Why is the phase 2, 3 door cheaper than the phase 1, 5 doors? Doesn't the 3 door give a slightly better performance?  

[DOOOOK]

However theres this one: 225 Phase 1 cup - http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Renault-Megane-2005/SSE-AD-3217615/?Cr=0

 

Just to confirm, so the phase 1 cup and the phase 2 have similar steering racks and ESP control ability if not the same?  

 

I think Ive seen this car on this site somewhere.  let me know your thoughts and whether it is worth the advertised price? 

Why is the phase 2, 3 door cheaper than the phase 1, 5 doors? Doesn't the 3 door give a slightly better performance?  

I'm not convinced that there is a difference in steering racks between any of the variants. Visually there is no difference and there is no variation out of the factory with part numbers. I think any difference in steering feel is due to suspension set-up rather than anything to do with the steering rack itself. That's my experience anyway with the suspension modifications I've done over time.

 

The ESP is as good as always on in a phase 1 non-cup (I'm not sure about a cup?), a performance and fun killer. Get an RS Tuner (or similar) and set it to activate at 250km/h. Issue solved.

 

I wouldn't be paying more for a phase 1 over a phase 2. The phase 2 is a better overall package despite there not being any performance difference between cup models. Perhaps the 5 door is worth more to some?

 

That 225 phase 1 cup looks good in the photos. I don't care for stamped log books, the most important thing with service history is the details in the receipts and that ticks an important box.

 

Good luck! 

[minidriver]

engine mounts and timing belt. engine mounts and timing belt. engine mounts and timing belts.

 

that's all you need to know about RS Meg II.

 

oh and check the windows work - there were some water proofing issues of the control boxes which are stored in the doors and they do get wet...

 

check the clutch as well.. I'm not sure on where the bite point is *meant* to be, but mine is fairly high and that can indicate a clutch which is towards its end of life. I've read that a high clutch bite point on these can be normal - less clutch travel for quicker gear changes... Clutches can be expensive to replace - a good opportunity to put get some LSD. Or buy a limited slip diff and put it in while the clutch is being changed, 2 birds, one stone  kinda thing. Also look at upgrading to a single mass fly wheel or R26 clutch setup.

 

Electrics - there are oft problems with the clock spring in the steering wheel causing airbag and cruise control issues. I have these. easily remedied by a piece of black tape over the offending light come RWC time. Also the airbag warning light can come on due to a loose/dirty connector under the drivers and or passenger seat. Easy fix. just disconnect the battery for 5 mins before playing with the airbag circuits.

 

trust me though, it is all worth while. I smile every time I walk back from the shop to the carpark and see my car with it's plumpy rump...

 

I bought my meg sight unseen interstate. It was cheap but no receipt for the last timing belt change and the engine mounts are shagged top bottom left and right. sometimes it feels like the engine is going to fall out.

 

 

so to summarise - timing belt, engine mounts, window winders, clutch, electrics, and some LSD.

[minidriver]

 

However theres this one: 225 Phase 1 cup - http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Renault-Megane-2005/SSE-AD-3217615/?Cr=0

 

Just to confirm, so the phase 1 cup and the phase 2 have similar steering racks and ESP control ability if not the same?  

 

I think Ive seen this car on this site somewhere.  let me know your thoughts and whether it is worth the advertised price? 

Why is the phase 2, 3 door cheaper than the phase 1, 5 doors? Doesn't the 3 door give a slightly better performance?  

 

I'd say the high price on the Ph1 is the colour. blood orange is arguably the most desirable.. and he wants to buy a house. it started off at 12.5k!!! Thats double what I paid for mine.

 

And yes, Ph1 cup and phase 2 have identical steering racks and suspension and ESP control.

[My Name is Earl]

I'm not convinced that there is a difference in steering racks between any of the variants. Visually there is no difference and there is no variation out of the factory with part numbers. I think any difference in steering feel is due to suspension set-up rather than anything to do with the steering rack itself. That's my experience anyway with the suspension modifications I've done over time.

i can only go on what Renault claim they've done, not to mention the handful of phase 1 UK owners who have changed their racks over to phase 2 racks for added benefit.

Pricey owned both a phase 1 Lux and Cup. The differences in steering feel were night and day.

[DOOOOK]

i can only go on what Renault claim they've done, not to mention the handful of phase 1 UK owners who have changed their racks over to phase 2 racks for added benefit.

Pricey owned both a phase 1 Lux and Cup. The differences in steering feel were night and day.

I had a significant improvement in steering feel and response when I had the Eibach's installed on my lux and then again when I went to coilovers.

 

There may very well have been an improvement in manufacture and could have been half-way through a model cycle. All speculation though.

 

My rack is being overhauled ATM. As preventative maintenance but it'll be interesting to see if there's any improvement.

[DOOOOK]

However theres this one: 225 Phase 1 cup - http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Renault-Megane-2005/SSE-AD-3217615/?Cr=0

 

 

I think Ive seen this car on this site somewhere.  let me know your thoughts and whether it is worth the advertised price? 

 

http://ozrenaultsport.invisionzone.com/index.php?/topic/23116-2005-renault-megane-225-cup/

[jdcttp]

Thanks all for contributing.  

 

anyone know how much I will be expecting to have engine mounts replaced and how do I know if engine mounts are at the end of its life?  Surely the engine doesn't sway that bad right? would be rather dangerous… I've had a front wheel fall off on me whilst driving before so I wouldn't want to experience such event again. 

 

Thats right! I knew I saw that car somewhere here.  So according to minidriver the advertised prices for this blood orange Megane cup is not worth its price? @Minidriver you bought yours for half the price?? a cup version as well? that's a bargain!!! The cup doesn't have a moon roof which is a little disappointing for me tho.

 

I know Renault Megane's are't like a camrys where you can find them on sale every time and every where. However will I have a chance to wait for a phase 2 that'll be at/or under the $10k mark like that blue one I saw on carsales?

Or was that an one in a million opportunity?  

 

Can anyone explain why the 3door phase 2s cost less than the 5 door phase 1's?? 

[hamstrung]

Had engine mounts (genuine Renault) done recently at Virage Motors in South Melbourne, cost around $600. Parts approx. $350. If you are willing to wait, they can get mounts from the same factory (without the Renault stamp) much cheaper, but as I understand it there are none in stock for a few weeks at least.

 

The difference between worn mounts and new mounts is night and day. I can't say at what point it becomes dangerous, but the vibrations through the cabin can get quite harsh (especially since everything rattles...). The mounts I replaced were all cracked, collapsed etc, should have been caught by roadworthy but wasn't.

 

The average listed price for a Ph2 Cup seems to be around 13-14K. 10K is more likely to get a non-Cup for Ph2, although occasionally you might find something close to 10-11K if the owner needs to shift the car in a hurry.

 

As for 3 doors vs 5 doors... unless someone else has an answer, I would say that it's simply a case of supply versus demand. Probably most people in the market for a 225, given its size, are wanting 5 doors for the practicality. Otherwise, why not look at a coupe? Then, for people who are ok with 3 doors, they may hold out for an R26 or F1 Team, to get the special colours, decals, or whatever. So a 225 or 225 Cup in 3 doors may not necessarily be that popular.

[pricey]

I noticed the difference in steering between my ph1 lux and ph1 cup instantly. I've heard they updated the steering rack but not confirmed. The suspension in the cup would've helped too!

Main points to look for are low km's, service history and checking the mounts and timing belts. They're not too expensive to maintain if they're kept in good order.

[jdcttp]

hi guys,

 

thanks for the input.  Well ive decided to hunt down a ph1 cup or ph2 non cup but cup will be a bonus but i understand that the chances of getting a ph2 cup is not likely for my budget.  

 

hopefully i can grab hold of a good one soon! fingers crossed.  Just want to ask for future reference when I do own a RS megane 225, would it be a cheaper and better way for me to order the parts myself and then take it to the mechanics to have them installed?  do u guys know if I did that will the labour cost me more as they make less money coz theyre not ordering in the parts or labour will cost the same?

 

 

cheers

[hamstrung]

hopefully i can grab hold of a good one soon! fingers crossed.  Just want to ask for future reference when I do own a RS megane 225, would it be a cheaper and better way for me to order the parts myself and then take it to the mechanics to have them installed?  do u guys know if I did that will the labour cost me more as they make less money coz theyre not ordering in the parts or labour will cost the same?

 

Good luck in your search!

 

The cost of buying locally vs importing yourself usually comes down to exchange rates and shipping costs. Remember that if the item is worth more than AUD1000, it will be subject to import duty (someone correct me if I'm wrong). I recently inquired about importing a catback from UK and was quoted 260 pounds for shipping!

 

In terms of fitment, any mechanic worth his salt should not charge you extra based on where the parts are coming from. If your mechanic is charging a clip on top of parts prices, it may be time to find a new mechanic... If anything, apart from a dealer, they should be happier to not have to spend the time sourcing the part.

[jdcttp]

thanks Hamstrung.

 

anyone know if the Ph2 cup comes in 5 door or only 3 door in Australia? 

 

 

I recently test driven a RS Megane, there was a vibrating rumble underneath my foot when I stepped down on the throttle(lightly even), is that normal for a Megane 225 or is there something wrong underneath?  

 

 

cheers

[hamstrung]

Cups are definitely available in 5 doors, although Ph2 Cups are hard to distinguish from non-Cups.

 

I'm no expert on mechanical things, I found that engine mounts fixed the cabin vibrations and harshness, but that may not be what you're experiencing.

[Russell]

For servicing if you can get to Sth Melb easily enough Virage motors are experts on everything Renault and have a very soft spot for the PHII.

 

These things are awesome fun and servicing isn't any more expensive than most other cars of the same age.

 

Just engine mounts and timing belts.