Hi
I have a Renault Megane.
Are the head gaskets common for going on this model? I was about to buy one with 35,000 miles on clock until a friand told me had one and the gasket went and according to him this was a common thing.
Thanks Chris
Some cars are particularly prone to head gasket failure, but the Megane is not one of them, so your friend was either unlucky, or his car had overheated from some other problem which had blown the gasket – which can happen on any car.
If you’re worried about it, check the car before you buy it, then take out a warranty. To check the car, first take off the oil filler cap and make sure there is no coffee coloured creamy deposit – if there is, walk away. Then check the colour of the oil on the dipstick – if it’s clean and looks brand new, be suspicious.
Few people change the oil before they sell a car unless they’re trying to hide something, such as the fact that it’s emulsifying (mixing with water to form that coffee coloured gunge). Lastly, look at the coolant and the area round the filler.
Signs of dried rusty coloured spillage round the filler could mean the water system’s been pressurised by a leaking gasket and once again be suspicious if the coolant looks clean and brand new.
And also check out our fault guide.