The Renault 821.04 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1997 and 2001. It features indirect injection, a fixed‑geometry turbocharger, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design. In standard form, it delivered approximately 66 kW (90 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, prioritising durability and low‑end pull for commercial and fleet applications.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Trafic (X76) van and Master (X62) van, the 821.04 was engineered for reliability and ease of maintenance in high‑mileage, load‑bearing scenarios. Emissions compliance for its era was achieved through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 2 standards.
One documented concern is premature injector pump (Bosch VP44) failure, often linked to fuel contamination or low-quality diesel. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 04‑01, can cause hard starting or erratic running. The pump is sensitive to water and particulates in the fuel system.
Production years 1997–2001 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault 821.04 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for light commercial vehicles (1997-2001). It combines indirect injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver robust low‑end torque and dependable service life. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritises utility and economy over refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,870 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VP44 rotary injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven | |
| Oil type | ACEA B3/B4 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable, lag-free torque ideal for load-carrying but demands strict fuel quality to protect the Bosch VP44 injection pump. ACEA B3/B4 10W-40 oil is required for optimal lubrication. The timing belt must be replaced at 100,000 km intervals to prevent interference engine damage. Fuel filters should be changed every 20,000 km using genuine parts to prevent water ingress. Pre-2000 units are particularly sensitive to bio-diesel blends above 5%.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B3/B4 specification (Renault Technical Note LUB 01-98).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1997–2001 production (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards (Renault Technical Note MEC 04-01).
Renault Technical Information System: Notes MEC 04-01, LUB 01-98
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Ref. 8200000000
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Renault 821.04 was used across Renault's light commercial platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU calibrations for the Master versus Trafic-creating no significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the cylinder block, adjacent to the injection pump (Renault Service Manual X76/X62). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code for this era. Visually, it can be identified by its Bosch VP44 injection pump mounted on the right side and the SOHC 8-valve cylinder head. Critical differentiation from the later 820.04: The 821.04 uses a mechanical VP44 pump, while the 820.04 uses a common-rail system. Service parts for the fuel system are not interchangeable.
The 821.04's primary reliability risk is Bosch VP44 injection pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel. Renault internal service data indicates pump replacement is a frequent repair item after 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel system faults as a common MOT advisory for high-mileage examples. Neglecting fuel filter changes makes pump failure almost inevitable.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1997-2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT 821-04.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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