Car won't start, garage says full engine replacement needed

2004 Renault Laguna
Car: Renault Laguna
Year: 2004
Categories: Running Rough, Starting & Power Loss
Car drove ok during a 3 hour journey. We parked up for lunch and 2 hours later when we returned it wouldn’t start. It turned over initially but sounded like a weak battery and just wouldn’t start.
Roadside assistance tried with a battery pack and checked fuel supply, but still wouldn’t start, so towed me to local Renault main dealer.
They say they have run diagnostic check and engine has lost compression on 3 cylinders and needs full replacement (at quite a cost!!)
Find it hard to believe that this could happen without any prior warning signs like lack of performance etc. I had the timing belt changed last year so certain it isn’t that.
I have had the car towed home as I can’t afford what the garage quoted me and I think they are having me on!!
Anyone any ideas?
Problem added: Jul 17, 2011 (12 years ago)
You dont say what size of engine , petrol or diesel .Any way , best bet would be to get a second opinion . Also could whip head of and see what is causing lack of compression , possibly bent valves .
Answered Jul 17, 2011 (12 years ago)
if it is lack of compression on 3 cylinders after what you describe the only possible fault would be the cam belt failing to cause this.
definitely get a second opinion and make sure its an independent and not a main dealer
Answered Jul 17, 2011 (12 years ago)
Hi guys. Thanks for that, have been away for a few days, hence delayed response. car is 1.9dci and had cam belt changed last year. Have checked that fuel arriving at injectors and plugs. One plug has a bit of oil on after trying to start car, but not a great deal. Both water and oil appear ok with no sign of contamination. Am going to take head off and have a look, but wonder if you have any other ideas with above info.
Answered Aug 8, 2011 (12 years ago)
Hi Dangermouse,

I was wondering reading your post if you ever got the problem solved? Did you need to replace the engine?
My car started out by ocaasionally not firing up after one or 2 start attempts. Now eventually suddenly it started to get so bad that after 10 attempts sometimes even more it will seems to sputter and then the starter motor will start turning faster and faster, and the it will start with a lot of white smoke. The glow plugs on my 1.9 dCi is still 100% after test?

I am now at the stage of getting me a new car, but can't get my Scenic sold for a good price as people aren't interested, because of the start problem.

Please help
Answered Dec 9, 2011 (12 years ago)

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