A highly capable front-wheel-drive hot hatch with exceptional chassis dynamics and 4Control four-wheel steering. The 1.8-liter turbocharged engine shares DNA with the Alpine A110 and is generally robust, but fuel pump failures are a known widespread issue, particularly on 2018-2019 models. The EDC dual-clutch automatic is less reliable than the manual gearbox. The Cup chassis suspension is firm - brilliant on track but harsh for daily driving. Generally more temperamental than rivals like the Honda Civic Type R FK8 but rewards enthusiasts with character and performance.
Known widespread issue causing sudden power loss, particularly 2018-2019 cars · more· less
This is a well-documented problem affecting all Megane RS 280/300 models, with Phase 1 cars (2018-2019) particularly prone. Renault issued recalls for some vehicles, but not all affected cars were covered. Symptoms include sudden loss of power or juddering on motorway, which disappears after cooling. Some owners report going through 3 pumps in 4 years. The issue is shared with the Alpine A110 which uses the same engine. Prevention: keep fuel tank above half-full as fuel acts as coolant for the pump. DIY replacement costs approximately €160-200; full unit replacement around €500. Some dealers replaced under warranty for affected recall vehicles.
EDC dual-clutch gearbox issues (auto only)€2,100 - €4,000
Mechatronics faults, clutch wear, software glitches causing gear loss and judder · more· less
The 7-speed EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) gearbox is less reliable than the manual. Common issues include loss of gears (typically 2, 4, 6), low-speed shudder, and mechatronic unit failures. A recall was issued for automatic gearbox software that doesn't engage clutch fully, causing loss of drive. Clutch replacement costs from €2,100, mechatronic replacement €2,500-3,000. Some cars required complete gearbox replacement within first 50 miles. Renault dealers claim EDC fluid is "lifetime" but Getrag (manufacturer) recommends changes every 60,000 km. Manual gearbox equipped cars are significantly more reliable. Early manual gearboxes could feel clunky (especially 1st to 3rd) in first few hundred miles but typically improve.
Oil pressure solenoid valve failure€800 - €2,500
Official recall for cars built March 2018 - May 2019, can cause engine failure · more· less
Solenoid valve wiring not manufactured to required specifications, leading to valve not switching to "high oil pressure" position when required. This leaves engine starved of oil and can lead to complete engine failure. Affected vehicles built between 1 March 2018 and 31 May 2019 (some sources say up to 6 May 2019). Renault performs software update, checks engine wiring and oil pressure, and replaces solenoid if required. Not all Megane IV RS are affected - check with dealer using VIN. This is a critical recall to verify before purchase.
Timing chain and tensioner wear€1,200 - €2,500
Chain stretches on higher-power variants, rattling typically 60,000-100,000 km · more· less
The 1.8 TCe M5M engine uses timing chain (not belt). While improved over earlier engines, high-power versions (280-300 hp) stress the chain. Tensioner release valve weakens, allowing oil pressure to bleed overnight, causing 1-30 second rattle on cold start. Critical issue: oil jet for chain lubrication is susceptible to clogging from soot. If blocked, chain receives insufficient lubrication leading to premature wear. Typically requires chain, guides, tensioner, and sprockets replacement by 100,000-160,000 km. Ignoring rattling can lead to chain skip and catastrophic valve/piston contact. Regular oil changes and using quality oil are essential. Some specialists recommend replacement at 150,000 km preventatively.
Recaro seat creaking and squeaking€0 - €1,500
Optional Recaro seats develop annoying creaks from runners, lever, and lumbar support · more· less
A common issue with Trophy Recaro seats. Symptoms include terrible creak/grind noise when cornering hard, plastic clicking from lumbar support, and squeaking from seat runners. Some owners had seat base replaced under warranty in first year, but issue can recur. Causes include: loose seat rail bolts (3 of 4 bolts found loose on some cars), seat lever moving against internal spring, and lumbar support rubbing. Solutions: tighten all seat rail bolts, apply lithium grease to runners, have dealer add foam to lumbar support. Check all 4 mounting bolts are tight - some cars left factory with only 1 bolt properly secured. More annoying than serious but detracts from premium feel.
Turbo actuator sticking€500 - €2,500
Carbon buildup from gentle driving causes EPC light and limp mode · more· less
Turbo actuator sticks when car is driven too gently or only short trips, allowing carbon to build up. Symptoms: EPC warning light and limp mode (reduced power). VW/Renault won't sell actuator separately. Actuator-only repair at specialist: €500-600. If turbo internals damaged: €1,200-2,500 for full turbo replacement. Prevention: use premium fuel and regular spirited driving to burn off carbon. This is typical of modern small turbo engines with direct injection. The 1.8 TCe is more robust than smaller TSI engines but not immune to this issue.
Electric water pump and thermostat failure€600 - €1,400
Integrated electric pump/thermostat typically fails 70,000-100,000 km · more· less
The 1.8 TCe uses electric water pump integrated with thermostat housing (expensive design). Failures common between 70,000-100,000 km. Symptoms: coolant warning light, engine overheating, poor cabin heating, or coolant temperature too cool during highway driving. Part costs €400-500 due to integrated electric design. Labor approximately 6 hours (€300-600) due to poor accessibility in engine bay. Total replacement: €900-1,400 at specialists, up to €1,400 at dealers. Check coolant level and condition regularly - low or brown/milky appearance indicates problems.
Brake pad and disc wear (track use)€400 - €1,200
Aggressive driving or track days accelerate wear on bi-material brakes · more· less
The Trophy uses bi-material brake discs (steel with aluminum center core for heat transfer and weight saving). At 12,000 miles with spirited driving, front pads can be 60% worn. Track use wears through pads and rotors quickly - some owners report needing replacement after just 8,000 km of enthusiastic driving. OEM Brembo pads work well for occasional track use. After track days, pads can become pitted and crumbly requiring replacement. Front discs are 350mm (larger than standard). Standard pads and discs work fine - the "bi-material" refers to disc construction, not pad compatibility. Budget €400-600 for pads (front and rear), €800-1,200 including discs at specialists. Look for recent replacement when buying.
Clutch wear (manual gearbox)€500 - €1,000
Manual clutch wears faster with enthusiastic driving and track use · more· less
Manual gearbox clutch lifespan varies with driving style. Gentle driving: 100,000+ km. Spirited/track use: 60,000-80,000 km. Average replacement cost: €500-800 at independent specialist using quality aftermarket kit (Valeo, Sachs). Up to €1,000 at dealers. If dual mass flywheel (DMF) needs replacement too, add €400-600 for part plus minimal additional labor (30 minutes extra). Main labor cost is gearbox removal (6 hours). Check clutch pedal feel and biting point during test drive. Slipping under hard acceleration or difficulty engaging gears indicates wear. The manual PK4 gearbox itself is very solid and much more reliable than EDC automatic.
Exhaust hangers and mounts failing€50 - €200
Rubber hangers perish, exhaust drops over speed bumps · more· less
Common issue across Megane range. Back box falls off bracket when going over speed bumps. Rubber hangers become brittle and fail. Replacement hangers are cheap (€15-30 each) but can be extremely tight fit requiring lever to install. There are 3 exhaust mounts per vehicle (center and rear). Part numbers: Centre 8200035447, Rear 8200035448. If exhaust keeps dropping, may have wrong hanger or bent holding arms. Ensure all sections aligned before fitting rear section. While not expensive to fix, it's annoying and embarrassing when it happens. Check hanger condition during inspection.
More temperamental than Japanese rivals but rewards enthusiasts
The Megane RS Trophy is a brilliant driver's car with exceptional chassis dynamics, but it requires more attention than rivals like the Honda Civic Type R. The fuel pump issue is the biggest concern for 2018-2019 models. Choose the manual gearbox if possible - it's significantly more reliable than the EDC automatic. Regular maintenance and spirited driving (to prevent carbon buildup) are essential. Factor in higher costs for consumables like brakes and tires if driven enthusiastically.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Renault dealer or specialist records essential. Verify oil changes every 12 months/12,000-15,000 km. Shorter intervals better for engine longevity.
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), uneven wear. Uses 245/35 R19 - budget €250-350 per tire for Bridgestone Potenza S007 or Michelin PS4.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for timing chain rattle in first 30 seconds. Brief rattle normal; prolonged rattle (5+ seconds) indicates wear.
Body condition
Check for accident damage, kerb rash on 19" wheels. These cars are often driven hard - inspect wheel arches and underside carefully.
Test drive
Minimum 30 minutes including varied speeds and temperatures to check gearbox operation when warm.
Specific for this vehicle
Verify fuel pump recall status and history
Check with Renault dealer using VIN. Ask owner if pump already replaced. Particular concern for 2018-2019 Phase 1 cars. Test drive on motorway - sudden power loss indicates pump issue.
Verify oil pressure solenoid recall completed
Critical recall for cars built March 2018 - May 2019. Contact Renault with VIN to confirm software update and solenoid check/replacement done.
EDC gearbox operation (if automatic)
Drive for 20+ minutes to get transmission hot. Check for jerky shifts, hesitation, clunking, or "check gearbox" warning. Test all gear changes in manual mode using paddles.
Cold start timing chain noise
Start engine completely cold after sitting overnight. Listen for rattling in first 30 seconds. Persistent rattle indicates chain/tensioner wear - expensive repair.
Check Recaro seats for creaking
Sit in driver's seat and move side to side. Drive over bumpy road and into corners. Listen for creaks, grinding, or squeaking. Check all seat rail bolts are tight.
Inspect brake condition
Check pad thickness (minimum 3mm), disc condition for scoring or cracks. Ask about recent replacement - these wear quickly with spirited driving or track use.
Check for EPC warning light
Drive car hard through rev range. EPC light with loss of power indicates turbo actuator issues. Should accelerate smoothly without hesitation.
Test Cup chassis suspension (Trophy models)
Very firm ride is normal for Cup chassis - test on rough roads to ensure it's acceptable for your use. 25% stiffer dampers, 30% stiffer springs than Sport chassis.
Verify coolant level and condition
Check expansion tank - should be between min/max when cold. Brown or milky appearance indicates water pump or head gasket issues. Smell sweet? Could be leak.
Check all interior buttons and switches
Test every button, especially on steering wheel and center console. Check infotainment system responsiveness. Renault electrics can be temperamental.
Fuel pump failure (various 2018-2019 models)Verify recall status with dealer
EDC automatic gearbox software updateClutch engagement issue - verify completed
Engine cooling fan capacitors (Sept-Nov 2018)Verify completed if applicable
Contact Renault with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The oil pressure solenoid recall is particularly critical as it can cause complete engine failure. Not all Megane RS cars are affected by all recalls - verification essential.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years/unlimited km)Expired on most 2018-2020 models
Extended warranty (Renault or third-party)€450-650/year depending on coverage
Paint and corrosion (3 years)Check status with dealer
Most 2018-2020 Megane RS Trophy models are outside original factory warranty. Extended warranty available through Renault (4 years/100,000 miles: €449) or third-party providers like MotorEasy (vehicles under 120,000 miles). Given the potential for expensive issues like fuel pump and EDC gearbox, extended warranty is worth considering, especially for EDC-equipped cars.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.