The Renault Avantime is one of the rarer vehicles to have graced New Zealand roads. Produced between 2001 and 2003, this unique Coupe/MPV crossover was a bold experiment of concept car thinking brought to life and offered here in limited numbers. Owning one today is choosing to embrace difference, but requires careful consideration.
Expect issues common to older Renaults, such as electrical problems. The complex roof mechanism is prone to faults, and repairs are costly. Suspension components can also be difficult to source. Finding replacement interior trim can be a nightmare.
WOF tips
Rust will be a key focus, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. The complex electrical system needs thorough testing. Pay close attention to suspension wear due to the car's weight. Ensure all lights and the roof mechanism are functioning correctly.
About the Renault Avantime V6
The Avantime's unusual design means it shares few components with other common Renault models. This drastically affects parts availability and potentially long waiting times. Mechanically, some parts are shared with the Laguna, but body panels and interior trim pieces are exclusively Avantime. Finding qualified technicians experienced in maintaining these vehicles can also be difficult. This is truly a car for the dedicated enthusiast.
Questions owners ask
What are the common electrical issues I should expect with a RENAULT AVANTIME 2001–2003 in New Zealand?
As with many older Renaults, the Avantime is prone to electrical problems. Owners frequently report issues with the complex roof mechanism, which can be costly to repair. It's also wise to anticipate general electrical gremlins that might affect various systems throughout the vehicle.
Where can I get replacement suspension components for my RENAULT AVANTIME 2001–2003 in NZ?
Sourcing replacement suspension components for the Avantime can be challenging due to its unique design and limited parts commonality with other Renault models. While some mechanical parts might be shared with the Laguna, suspension parts are often difficult to find. CARFIX stocks 47 SKUs for the Avantime, but specific suspension components may require a dedicated search or specialist import.
What should I be particularly aware of for a WOF inspection on my RENAULT AVANTIME 2001–2003?
For a WOF on your Avantime, pay close attention to rust, especially in hard-to-reach areas. The complex electrical system will need thorough testing to ensure all components are functioning correctly. Due to the car's weight, suspension wear will be a key focus, so check for any signs of deterioration. Finally, ensure all lights are working, and critically, that the unique roof mechanism operates without fault.
Are body panels and interior trim readily available for the RENAULT AVANTIME 2001–2003 in New Zealand?
No, body panels and interior trim pieces for the RENAULT AVANTIME 2001–2003 are exclusively Avantime-specific and are not shared with other common Renault models. This makes them extremely difficult to source, and finding replacement interior trim can be a significant challenge, often requiring extensive searching or specialist contacts.
What is the recommended service interval for a RENAULT AVANTIME 2001–2003?
The recommended service interval for the RENAULT AVANTIME 2001–2003 is every 15,000km. Given the vehicle's age and unique nature, adhering strictly to this schedule, or even more frequent checks, is advisable to maintain its condition.
Where can I get an oil filter for my RENAULT AVANTIME 2001–2003 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks a range of parts for the RENAULT AVANTIME 2001–2003, including common service items like oil filters. You can check our website or contact our team to confirm availability for your specific Avantime model.