WeberRacer

2020 Renault Arkana: Issues with Black Smoke, Reduced Power, Increased Fuel Consumption, and Strong Exhaust Smell

Hey folks, got a bit of a puzzler with my 2020 Renault Arkana, Gasoline engine. Lately, she's been acting up a bit - black smoke when I accelerate, check engine light being a permanent fixture, taking her sweet time to start up when cold, just doesn't have the power she used to, gives a bit of a jerk when I hit the gas, and she's been guzzling fuel like there's no tomorrow. To top it off, there's this strong exhaust smell that's hard to ignore. I'm suspecting the mix could be too rich but I'm no expert. Has anyone dealt with this sort of thing before? Really keen to hear about your experiences, how you pinpointed the problem and what you did to fix it. Cheers in advance!

4 comment(s)

Hey, your problem sounds similar to an issue I had with my '18 Renault Megane. I'm not a car guru by any means, but I do have low experience in car maintenance from having older cars that needed constant care. From what you've described, it smells like it could be a faulty fuel pressure regulator (FPR). In my case, that led to the symptoms you're talking about: rich fuel mix, stumbled starts, black smoke - the works. I took my Megane to the local workshop and yep, they confirmed the fuel pressure regulator was defective. Set me back 250 euro, but the beast ran like a dream afterward. But to be fair, don't just take my word for it. Your issue could be different. Can you share more about your car? Like, has it got over 100k miles, or if you've ever replaced parts in the fuel system before? More detail would help in pinpointing the exact issue. Hope this helps!

Hey, thanks for the advice! Yes, mine's got quite a few kilometres under her belt, a cool 197732 km, to be precise. Not any parts in the fuel system replaced though. This was my first hunch too about the fuel pressure regulator. Just wanted to get a second opinion as we all know how those sneaky misdiagnoses can dent the pocket. I'll check out the FPR at a local workshop now that you've also pointed in that direction. The last service was not too long ago and everything seemed fine then, guess it's just one of those things that pop up. Fingers crossed it's not something more serious. Much appreciated!

No worries, happy to help! Ah, with that mileage, the fuel pressure regulator becoming faulty is definitely within the realm of possibilities. Good move on seeking a second opinion. Can never be too careful when it comes to our motorized companions. Chances are, even if it's not the FPR and something else related to the fuel system, it does sound like a fuel-related issue with the symptoms you listed. Could also be the injectors, especially given the mileage. Just a thought. Good luck with your check up at the local workshop! If it turns out to be the FPR as we both suspect, the good news is, it won't break the bank. My fix was definitely worth it for the peace of mind and smoother running it brought. Keep us updated on how it all pans out. Cheers!

Absolutely. You've been a great help. I'm thinking the same way - even if it isn't the FPR, it surely seems to be a fuel-related issue. I'll keep the injectors in mind too, thanks for the tip. I'll be heading for that check-up soon and I'll certainly keep you posted. Hoping it's manageable, because you're right peace of mind is worth it, and in any case, the old girl's worth it! Catch you later, and thanks again for the advice! Cheers!

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