BRAND · RENAULT
Renault mechanic in La Línea
SRM Performance is an independent Renault mechanic in La Línea de la Concepción, a couple of kilometres from the Gibraltar frontier. We look after everything from a commuter Clio to a weekend Mégane RS.
Renaults, and the Dacias that share many of their engines, are a common sight around La Línea, Algeciras and San Roque. They're straightforward to keep running if the servicing is done on time, but a few engines have known weak spots that are much cheaper to catch early than to fix late.
The one most people have heard about is the 1.2 TCe petrol, which in certain years has a reputation for burning oil and for timing chain trouble. On the 1.5 dCi diesel, oil is everything too: leave the changes too long or use the wrong grade and the big-end bearings can fail. In both cases regular servicing is the cheap insurance.
Then there's the Mégane RS. All three generations have a following on the coast, with their Cup chassis and turbocharged 2.0 or 1.8 engines. Cambelts, clutches, brakes, custom exhausts or a remap: we'll do it to your spec after checking the car over, and remind you that keeping it ITV and MOT-compliant is down to the owner.
Common Renault jobs
1.2 TCe oil use and timing chain
Some batches of this engine are known for oil consumption, and a low oil level is hard on the timing chain. We measure how much it's using, check the chain and advise from there.
1.5 dCi big-end bearings
A widely used diesel with a decent reputation, as long as the oil is changed on time. A knocking engine or an oil pressure light means stop and get it checked.
Cambelt replacement
Plenty of Renaults, including the 2.0 Mégane RS, use a timing belt. If you don't know when it was last done, the safe move is a new belt with tensioners and water pump.
EDC automatic gearbox
The EDC dual-clutch on the Clio, Captur and Mégane can develop judder or engagement faults over time. We diagnose it first, then talk about the repair.
Mégane RS clutch, brakes and setup
Slipping clutches, brakes worked hard on mountain roads and engines that need proper servicing. We check the lot and, if you want, build an exhaust or map to suit.
Renaults we see
- Clio
- Clio RS
- Captur
- Mégane
- Mégane RS (250, 265, 275 and 300)
- Kadjar
- Arkana
- Austral
- Trafic
- Dacia Duster and Sandero
Services for your car
Frequently asked questions
Are you a Renault dealer?
No, we're an independent garage. We follow the manufacturer's service intervals and explain what we're doing and why.
My Clio 1.2 TCe uses oil. Is that normal?
A little can be, but this engine is known for using too much. Bring it in, we'll measure the consumption and check the timing chain before it gets worse.
Do you work on Dacias?
Yes. Many Dacias use the same dCi and TCe engines as Renault, so the things to watch are the same.
Can you build a custom exhaust for a Mégane RS?
Yes, in stainless steel with TIG welding, made to your spec. A louder exhaust can affect the ITV or MOT, and keeping the car legal is the owner's responsibility.