Electronic Diagnostics: Renault Megane II 1.4

With the Sagem 3000 management system.

The first-generation Renault

Mégane made its debut in 1995, with a range of body types, but owing much to the preceding Renault 19 in terms of its platform, drivetrain and running gear. The restyled and re-engineered second-generation Mégane was voted European Car of the Year for 2003, and was notable for being the first model in its class to be awarded five stars in the Euro NCAP safety ratings.

The newcomer had some distinctively modernistic styling features similar to those of the Avantime and, at the time of its introduction, much was also made of the standard-fit keycard ignition activation system, which relied on a card being inserted into a slot in the fascia. The keycard also controlled the vehicle’s central locking system.

Innovative or not, this system – which has also been used on other models in the line-up – has over time proved to be flawed in many ways. At worst, it has left many a Renault owner stranded with a vehicle that refuses to start. Often the card reader simply doesn’t recognise a keycard that has become damaged. More about this later, but for now it is imperative that owners are aware that Renault keycards are fragile and need to be treated with utmost care; in particular, try to avoid dropping, sitting on or flexing the card. Rectification of card-related problems is usually expensive and time-consuming.

It should also be noted that Mégane electrics are similarly delicate. Patience is certainly a virtue for owners and operators of these models, which were superseded by third-generation cars from late 2008.

A variety of petrol and diesel engines was offered in the Mégane II and our vehicle here is a 1.4-litre petrol model registered in 2003. The engine code K4J is controlled by a Sagem 3000 management system.

Our guide to this model’s engine and its system is Edward Haggar.

Preparation

These Renaults suffer from a number of wiring/electrical faults that can challenge the patience and wallet of even the keenest owner. Prevention rather than cure is the best way forward in order to retain your sanity and bank balance! Ensure that all the wiring and connections are dry at all times – a good covering of silicone protectant will help.