The Renault 807.1 is a 2,188 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 1996 and 2003. It features a cast-iron block, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and indirect injection with a pre-chamber design, delivering strong low-end torque for commercial and family vehicle applications. The naturally aspirated variant was also offered for specific markets.
Fitted to models such as the Espace II, Trafic II, and Trafic III, the 807.1 was engineered for durability and fuel efficiency in high-mileage usage. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), enabling Euro 2 standards across all European markets.
One documented concern is premature injector tip carbonization, highlighted in Renault Technical Service Bulletin TSB-98-041. This issue stems from prolonged idling and use of lower-quality diesel fuel, causing incomplete combustion and restricted spray patterns. From 1999, Renault introduced revised injector nozzles with improved flow geometry and updated ECU calibration to mitigate deposit formation.

Production years 1996–2001 meet Euro 2 standards; 2002–2003 models may have Euro 3 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault 807.1 is a 2,188 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for MPVs and light commercial vehicles (1996–2003). It combines indirect injection with an EGR system to deliver robust low-rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances reliability with economical operation under heavy load.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,188 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.0 mm | |
| Power output | 66–74 kW (90–101 PS) | |
| Torque | 200–220 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE rotary pump with indirect injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-2002); Euro 3 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 22.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT1544V (fixed geometry) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interference design) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 15W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The 807.1 delivers strong low-RPM torque ideal for towing and urban delivery but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference engine failure. Renault RN0700 (15W-40) oil is critical due to its higher viscosity protecting the indirect injection pump and valve train. Use of non-compliant diesel fuel accelerates injector coking; always specify EN 590-compliant ultra-low-sulfur diesel. Pre-1999 injectors are prone to carbon buildup per SIB 98-041; later units feature redesigned tips. Cold starts should be minimized to reduce unburned fuel dilution of engine oil.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (15W-40) specification (Renault SIB 98-041). Supersedes ACEA B1/B2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to pre-2002 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2002–2003 models meet Euro 3 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 101 PS output requires EU3+ fuel quality (Renault TIS Doc. A10223).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A10223, A10301, SIB 98-041
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault 807.1 was used across Renault's Espace II/Trafic II/Trafic III platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external use. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifold geometry in the Trafic and reinforced mountings in the Espace-and from 1999 the facelifted Trafic adopted revised injectors per SIB 98-041, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block near the starter motor housing (Renault TIS A10223). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for 807 series). Pre-1999 engines have a black plastic timing cover with visible belt tensioner; post-1999 units feature a revised injector nozzle with internal cleaning channels. Critical differentiation from 807.2: Original 807.1 has single-stage Bosch VE pump and fixed geometry turbo; 807.2 uses electronic unit injectors and variable geometry turbo. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/1999 are incompatible with later units due to injector tip redesign (Renault SIB 98-041).
The 807.1's primary reliability risk is premature injector tip carbonization on pre-1999 units, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use and extended idling. Internal Renault reports from 2001 indicated nearly 22% of early-production engines required injector replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows elevated smoke emissions linked to degraded EGR valves in high-use examples. Low-quality diesel and infrequent servicing accelerate deposit accumulation, making fuel quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1997–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT 807-1.
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