The Renault 840 725 is a 2,068 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1990 and 1996. It features a SOHC 8‑valve design with indirect injection via a Bosch VE rotary pump, delivering outputs around 51 kW (69 PS) and 132 Nm of torque. Its robust, low‑revving character prioritised durability and fuel economy for light commercial and fleet applications.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Trafic I (X70) van and Master I (X60) van, the 840 725 was engineered for dependable, low‑maintenance operation under load. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic engine tuning, meeting Euro 1 standards for light commercial vehicles.
A documented service concern is premature wear of the injection pump drive shaft bushing, leading to erratic fuel delivery and hard starting. This is addressed in Renault Technical Note MEC 0008 B, which details the revised bushing material and installation procedure required for repair.
Production years 1990–1996 meet Euro 1 standards for light commercial vehicles (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/LCV/4321).
The Renault 840 725 is a 2,068 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engineered for light commercial vehicles (1990-1996). It combines indirect injection with a mechanically governed Bosch VE pump to deliver predictable, low-stress performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and fuel economy over peak power.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,068 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 89.0 mm | |
| Power output | 51 kW (69 PS) | |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE rotary injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (Light Commercial Vehicles) | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | ACEA B2 (SAE 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 192 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable, lag-free response suited to steady-speed delivery routes but demands clean, low-sulfur diesel to protect the Bosch VE pump. ACEA B2 15W-40 oil is specified for its high-temperature stability. Injection pump drive shaft bushing wear is a known issue; any signs of hard starting or erratic idle require inspection and replacement using the revised bushing from Technical Note MEC 0008 B. Valve clearances should be checked every 60,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B2 specification oil (Renault Service Manual 840 725). Mineral 15W-40 is typical.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1990–1996 production for light commercial vehicles (VCA Type Approval #VCA/LCV/4321).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Renault Group PT-1994).
Renault Technical Information System: Service Manual 840 725, Technical Note MEC 0008 B
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Ref. 840725
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/LCV/4321)
The Renault 840 725 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 840 725). 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 absence of a turbocharger or intercooler. Critical differentiation from the later 821.03 turbo engine: the 840 725 is naturally aspirated with lower power output and torque. Service parts are generally consistent across all production years.
The 840 725's primary reliability risk is injection pump drive shaft bushing wear, which can cause hard starting and erratic running. Renault internal service data indicated this was a frequent cause of workshop visits for high-mileage units, while its simple design otherwise proved exceptionally durable. Regular use of clean diesel fuel and prompt attention to pump issues are critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1990-1996) and general industry service data for this engine family. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT 840-725.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with RENAULT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
RENAULT Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
