When AutoAlex picked up a Renault 5 fitted with a Volvo 480 Turbo engine, it came with a few “quirks”: a old aftermarket ECU that didn’t seem to work, and a wiring loom that looked like it had seen better days.
That’s when AutoAlex reached our to us to see if we could lend a hand. We supplied Alex and the guys with our latest ME221 ECU and one of our Zetec plug-and-play harnesses, chosen because it was the closest fit to the setup already in the car. With a few connector changes and some fresh sensors, including a 3-bar MAP sensor and Bosch LSU wideband, the transformation began.
From Non-Runner to First-Turn Fire-Up in three hours!
After years off the road, the Renault 5 hadn’t run for quite some time, but with the ME221 fitted, timing set, and everything wired correctly, the results spoke for themselves:
✅ Spark confirmed
✅ Fuel confirmed
✅ Started on the key — first time!
It’s moments like this that show why the ME221 is the go-to choice for modern retrofits, fast road and race cars alike.
The Results:
Started on the button, ready to get calibrated on a dyno!
Why Choose the ME221?
The same kit Alex used in this project is available right now. With the ME221, you’ll get:
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Plug-and-play simplicity (with a range of harnesses to suit different builds)
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Modern ECU features: boost control, launch control, flat-shift, wideband closed-loop.
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Reliable starts and drivability — even on cars that have sat for years.
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Proven tuning support, with dyno partners across the UK and UK based factory support,
Watch the Build
Catch Alex’s full Renault 5 ME221 install here:
👉 Watch the video
Get the Kit
Want the same setup for your car? Order the ME221 ECU and harness kit today:
👉 Buy now
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