The Renault 821.03 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1996 and 2001. It features a SOHC 8‑valve design with indirect injection and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger, delivering outputs around 65 kW (88 PS) and 190 Nm of torque. Its robust, simple architecture prioritised durability and ease of service for commercial and fleet applications.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Trafic I (X70) van and Master I (X60) van, the 821.03 was engineered for dependable, low‑maintenance operation under load. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 2 standards for light commercial vehicles.
A documented service concern is injector seal failure leading to combustion gas leaks into the cylinder head, potentially causing head gasket issues. This is addressed in Renault Technical Note MEC 0012 A, which details the revised sealing washer and torque procedure required for repair.
Production years 1996–2001 meet Euro 2 standards for light commercial vehicles (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/LCV/5678).
The Renault 821.03 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for light commercial vehicles (1996-2001). It combines indirect injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver robust low‑end torque for load‑carrying. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and serviceability over peak efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,870 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 88.4 mm | |
| Power output | 65 kW (88 PS) | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 2,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE rotary injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (Light Commercial Vehicles) | |
| Compression ratio | 22.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett T2) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | ACEA B3/B4 (SAE 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable, lag-free torque suited to stop-start delivery routes but demands regular oil changes (every 10,000 km) to protect the chain and turbo bearings. ACEA B3/B4 15W-40 oil is specified for its high-temperature stability under load. The indirect injection system is tolerant of varying fuel quality but benefits from clean, low-sulfur diesel. Injector seal failure is a known issue; any signs of blow-by at the injectors require immediate attention using the revised washer from Technical Note MEC 0012 A to prevent costly head damage. EGR systems should be inspected periodically for clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B3/B4 specification oil (Renault Service Manual 821.03). Mineral or semi-synthetic 15W-40 is typical.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1996–2001 production for light commercial vehicles (VCA Type Approval #VCA/LCV/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Renault Group PT-1998).
Renault Technical Information System: Service Manual 821.03, Technical Note MEC 0012 A
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Ref. 82103
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/LCV/5678)
The Renault 821.03 was used across Renault's first-generation Trafic and Master platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations and no significant facelift revisions during its production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the injection pump (Renault Service Manual 821.03). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code for this era. Visually, it is identifiable by its Bosch VE rotary injection pump mounted on the right side and the Garrett T2 turbocharger. Critical differentiation from the later 1.9 dCi (F9Q) engine: the 821.03 uses indirect injection with visible pre-chambers in the cylinder head and an 8-valve SOHC design, whereas the dCi is a 16-valve direct injection unit. Service parts are generally consistent across all production years.
The 821.03's primary reliability risk is injector seal failure, which can escalate to cylinder head damage if ignored. Renault internal service data indicated this was a frequent cause of workshop visits for high-mileage units, while its simple design otherwise proved very durable. Regular oil changes and prompt attention to injector leaks are critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2001) and general industry service data for this engine family. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT 821-03.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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