Renault Kangoo Trekka - any input

[Retro Pedro]

My normal daily runner/mobile shed is a Kia Sedona, and I reckon it's got one more year left in it. So been giving a bit of thought as to what to replace it with.
As a smaller mobile shed will do, the basic looking Renault Kangoo Trekka seems to be ticking a few boxes. Box shaped to take loads of junk, roomy enough to get the dogs in when I do the 'foster' dog walking gaunts and the option of road use 4 wheel drive so I can have my Fronty in the snowy weather and 'she' can have a motor to get to work in. Also, I like diesel motors, which the Kangoo as a 1.9 option.
So my request is, does anybody know a thing or two about these Renaults and are they worth a consideration or a 'don't touch with a barge pole' flag.
I've joined the Renault forum and going to ask a few questions on there before digging deep.
I have thought about a 2.2 B LWB but I reckon the Kangoo will be better suited for my needs.
Cheers for any replys peeps

[Big Dav]

Very popular with shepherd farmer types and seem to be coping. It was either the Kangoo Trekka or a Citroen type van the Forestry Commission (I think) used as a cheaper alternative to heavy 4x4's.

One of the 4x4 mags did a full feature review of one a couple of years ago.

Enginewise, should be a good hard worker.

They can sound tinny inside and when I have driven a 2wd version I have never felt far away from Postman Pat world.

Definitely try before you buy though, just to experience sitting and driving one - they can feel like roofed go-karts.

[adyclemo]

Never been a fan of French cars but the fuel pump relays are prone to failure, suffer from bad earths and general electrical faults but apart from that that's about it I think

[MG Autos (Mark)]

The engines are pretty much bullet proof Pete, so long as they are regularly serviced.

Like all Diesels they are sensitive to oil changes and the more regular they are, the longer they'll last. Also sensitive to Cam Belt changes. It's not a vehicle that you want to try and stretch the time / mileage on as they will and do snap.
Apart from that and the usual Van like cabin noises, there's not too much wrong with them. They don't tend to rust either. If you do come across one with rust it's usually as a result of a bad repair job or cheap panels having been used.

[Retro Pedro]

Cheers guys for replys - seen a nice scarlet red one that should fit the bill
The game plan is to wait until the Sedona is baked bean tins and then buy at the lower spring rates rather than the higher pre-winter rates.
Thanks again, Pete

[2much]

buy, buy, buy!

when we go and stay with friends in spain, we always get one of these from a local signor. loads of space for 5 plus luggage, nothing seems to break despite being the usual "pristine" spanish condition.

nearly bought a brand new one a few years back when i was going to go back to plumbing and needed something tidier than a van for everyday and clients.

only thing i would say is i think renault parts are a bit on the dear side...

scarlet as well? then all you would need is a b;lack and white cat called jess!!

[unicorn_lion]

Be careful! I was interested because of low insurance until 'she who must be obeyed 'described it as a 'spaz wagon' . Apparently the hydraulic coupling rear power transfer system in the driveline wears. The vehicle is particularly sensitive to differences in tyre wear ie you should replace all four at once. Rubber mountings and propshafts also go. There is guidance on the net about how to test if the system is operating properly. http://www.kangoo-trekka-club.org/forum ... kka.htmlIf it is not it is very expensive £2550 for the coupling before fitting!
Greg

[Retro Pedro]

Cheers for the heads up on that point Greg