Buying Guides

Renault Kangoo (1997-2008) Buying Guide

Pictures shown may not represent exact model specified

by Richard Dredge

Only the French would take something as utilitarian as a small van and turn it into an MPV, without trying to disguise its roots. It's a formula that works brilliantly though, because if you want tremendous practicality without having to spend much, cars like the Kangoo - and its Citroen Berlingo/Peugeot Partner rivals are unbeatable.

Get an exact warranty quote for this car with Warranty Direct

We Like	We Don't Like
Practicality Versatility Spacious cabin Comfortable ride	Feels spartan Breathless diesel engine

Key Dates
10/99	The Kangoo reaches UK showrooms in 1.4 petrol or 1.9 diesel forms.
11/01	The four-wheel drive Trekka edition arrives, with 1.6-litre petrol power only.
1/02	The Trekka is now available with a 1.9dCi engine.
4/02	A 1.5dCi engine joins the range.
4/03	The Kangoo gets a facelift, with revised front and rear styling plus an overhauled interior. A 1.2 petrol also joins the range.
4/04	Anti-lock brakes are standardised across the range.

Checklist
The electrics can be fragile, so check they all work, including the headlamp beam adjusters. Manual gearboxes can wear out in under 20,000 miles as the casing wears. Automatic transmissions can also prove short-lived; make sure ratios swap cleanly. The ignition coil packs can fail; once one goes, it's best to replace them all. Cam belts can fail on 1.2-litre engines in less than 40,000 miles. On the 1.5dCi engine, the exhaust gas recirculation valve can stick, leading to the turbo or even the whole engine self-destructing. If the turbo has been replaced, make sure the valve was renewed too. Brakes pipes corrode at the back of the car, guaranteeing an MoT fail.

Checklist

The electrics can be fragile, so check they all work, including the headlamp beam adjusters.
Manual gearboxes can wear out in under 20,000 miles as the casing wears.
Automatic transmissions can also prove short-lived; make sure ratios swap cleanly.
The ignition coil packs can fail; once one goes, it's best to replace them all.
Cam belts can fail on 1.2-litre engines in less than 40,000 miles.
On the 1.5dCi engine, the exhaust gas recirculation valve can stick, leading to the turbo or even the whole engine self-destructing. If the turbo has been replaced, make sure the valve was renewed too.
Brakes pipes corrode at the back of the car, guaranteeing an MoT fail.