Ask an expert

We brought a used 2002 1.6 Renault Scenic back from Singapore in 2005. Within a few days of landing, it started running rough.

The car was taken to the local agent who diagnosed the problem as a faulty ignition coil. On their advice all the coils were replaced as they said the tropics were bad for electrics. The total cost was $1400.

Last week the same problem occurred and another coil needed replacing at a cost of $300.

I asked whether this was common and was assured it was unusual.

After researching the internet I found it was anything but, with reported failures on near new cars.

If it is a common fault with the Renault parts, are there other coils that fit at either a cheaper price or better quality.

I hope there is no 'trickiness' here on Renault NZ or the local agents part.

The last car I owned had one coil and a distributer, but now the modern electronics make it a bit daunting for amateurs to do this sort of thing.

Ken

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 14 December 2009

I don't believe there is any 'trickiness' from Renault NZ or the local agent. They can only recommend and fit the parts supplied from the overseas manufacturer for the product they represent.

Fitting non genuine parts in this case would be an admission of a problem and manufacturers would rather fix any known problems with upgraded parts rather than continue to produce, and sell, a genuine component that creates customer dissatisfaction.

My understanding is the part number for the coils has changed in recent times which is often a sign the part has been modified or changed in some way. You can also assume that there has been some problems with the earlier coils which has prompted the change.

Renault NZ certainly recommend the use of genuine parts in the case of coil replacement and I support that view.

Multiple coils are not uncommon these days in many makes and models of vehicles, and are part of the ever-increasing complexities of the electronic engine management systems.

Most of these new technologies are very reliable and contribute to increased performance and reduced fuel consumption and emissions. The downside can sometimes be the expense when there is a problem and the need for specialised equipment to be used which rules out the DIY option.

We have heard a number of stories surrounding wiring related problems with vehicles out of Singapore. This has been mainly put down to a humidity issue and in most cases the problems are more around the wiring itself not components like coils.

My best advice is to arrange a meeting with the local agent Service Manager and ask for some sort of assistance in sorting this problem out in view of your previous financial outlays.

If I read your email correctly, you have imported the car into NZ yourselves as opposed to the vehicle being a used import purchased from a dealers yard.

They may be willingly to help you in some way if you paint the picture of being loyal to both the product and to them as the local agent and that relationship will hopefully continue in the future.