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Alex Robbins is contributing editor at Telegraph Cars where, as well as responding to readers' queries, he also contributes reviews of new and used cars, together with articles on buying and selling.
His knowledge of the used car market informs his many buying guides relating to the best buys in particular sectors, with an emphasis on value for money. Every week he will answer your questions on buying and selling, as well as solving your car problems, whether consumer or mechanical.
Do you have a motoring dilemma you'd like our expert to solve? For consumer and used car advice, or car faults, email CarsAdvice@telegraph.co.uk and include your subscriber number. This week's question...
Dear Alex,
I have owned a Renault Espace MPV (people carrier) since new in 1996. Recently it refused to start, although the engine was turning over. A Renault main dealer informed me they no longer have the necessary diagnostic software and therefore were unable to help. I would like to keep the car going as it has sentimental value, so how might I best do that?
– TS
Dear TS,
I have to start by saying how impressed I am that you’ve stuck with the same trusty car for more than 25 years; “reduce, reuse and recycle” is one of the environmental lobby’s key mantras, and you have certainly done that admirably.
It’s also great to hear of a second-generation Espace still on the road, given how vanishingly rare they now are. I’ve always had a soft spot for these cars, which were supremely comfortable and groundbreaking in their day, and far better suited to their brief than the modern equivalent, which would be a seven-seat SUV.
Having said all that, I’m not surprised that the Renault garage can no longer help you – main dealers are rarely, if ever, set up to deal with older cars such as yours.
Your best bet is therefore to find an independent garage that specialises in Renaults. That’s normally how I go about fixing troublesome issues on my older cars. Specialists are invaluable and, in my opinion, often a better bet than a main dealer – because they are usually enthusiasts for the brand they specialise in and therefore have the same passion for your car that you do.
Sometimes, they even have the official manufacturer hardware and software required to communicate with older cars such as yours, having purchased them from franchised dealers.
You don’t mention where in the UK you’re based, but there are plenty of well-regarded Renault specialists dotted around. A search via Google should unearth one relatively easily.
Failing that, you could contact the Renault Owners’ Club, to see if they can recommend a marque specialist nearby; the address is secretary@renaultownersclub.com
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Ask the expert: ‘How can I keep my treasured 26-year-old Renault Espace on the road?’
Our reader is concerned that his local garage no longer stock his car's parts. He turns to our expert for help