Latitude Uneven Running Exhaust Leak

Regarding the issues you are experiencing with your Renault Latitude: the symptoms described, particularly the uneven engine running, check engine light, stored error, and jerking under acceleration, do suggest a potential misfire. While fuel injectors and timing belt issues can indeed cause such problems, you should also consider the ignition coils as potential culprits. A faulty ignition coil can lead to incomplete combustion, resulting in the issues you've noted. Furthermore, have you inspected the exhaust system for any signs of leaks? An exhaust leak can introduce irregularities in the air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues.

Thanks for the reply! I haven't specifically checked the exhaust system for leaks. Where should I be looking, and what exactly am I looking for? I'm not super mechanically inclined but I'm willing to give it a shot before taking it to a shop.

You're welcome. Identifying exhaust leaks can sometimes be challenging without specialized equipment. Visually, inspect the exhaust pipes, muffler, and catalytic converter for any signs of damage, such as rust, holes, or cracks. A common area for leaks is at the joints between exhaust components. Start the engine and listen closely for any unusual hissing or puffing sounds coming from the exhaust system, particularly when the engine is cold. However, given your expressed lack of extensive mechanical experience and the potential risks involved, I would strongly advise taking your Latitude to a qualified workshop for a comprehensive diagnosis. Continuing to operate the vehicle with a suspected exhaust leak or misfire could potentially exacerbate the problem and lead to more costly repairs.

Thanks for confirming my suspicions and for the good advice! I took it to a local mechanic, and it turned out to be a leak in the exhaust system, just like you suggested. The repair cost me about 265€. Runs like a charm now!