The Renault C1J 796 is a 1,397 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1983 and 1989. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves. Equipped with a twin‑choke carburettor, it delivered 55 kW (75 PS), providing adequate performance for its compact vehicle applications.
Fitted primarily to the Renault 9 and 11 (B/C11 platforms), the C1J 796 was engineered for economical, reliable urban and suburban motoring. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and catalytic converters on later models, meeting the national standards of the era.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft lobes and hydraulic tappets, particularly in engines with extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 03‑01, is often linked to the use of incorrect oil viscosity or sludge buildup. The engine was eventually superseded by fuel-injected variants.
Production years 1983–1989 predate formal Euro standards; emissions compliance is based on national regulations applicable at time of manufacture (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/NEDC/5679).
The Renault C1J 796 is a 1,397 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and saloons (1983-1989). It combines a robust cast‑iron block with SOHC 8‑valve architecture to deliver economical, low-maintenance performance. Designed for the regulatory environment of its era, it balances adequate power with mechanical simplicity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,397 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) | |
| Torque | 105 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin-choke carburettor (Solex or Weber) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (National Standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W‑40 (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The SOHC design offers mechanical simplicity but requires strict 10,000 km oil changes with mineral oil to prevent camshaft and tappet wear from sludge buildup. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected at 120,000 km. The carburettor demands periodic tuning for optimal economy and emissions. The non-interference design means a broken timing chain causes stalling, not engine damage.
Oil Specs: Requires Mineral 15W-40 (API SF/CC) for optimal tappet protection (Renault Owner's Manual, 1984).
Emissions: Pre-dates Euro standards; compliance based on 1980s national regulations (VCA Type Approval #VCA/NEDC/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (Renault Group PT-1985).
Renault Technical Information System (RTIS): Repair Manuals Vol. 1 & 2 (1983-1985)
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Ref. 77 11 007 500
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/NEDC/5679)
The Renault C1J 796 was used across Renault's B/C11 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor adaptations-different carburettor calibrations for various markets-but no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault RTIS Doc. MEC-ID-01). The 8th digit of the VIN often corresponds to the engine type ('C' for C1J family). The engine is identified by its twin-choke carburettor and single cam cover. The exhaust manifold has four separate runners merging into a single downpipe.
The C1J 796's primary reliability risk is camshaft and hydraulic tappet wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained engines. Renault internal data noted this as a common service item after 120,000 km, while owner club surveys frequently cite oil sludge as the root cause. Infrequent oil changes make using the correct mineral oil specification critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1983-1989) and owner club technical archives (1985-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT C1J-796.
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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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