The Renault C2J 730 is a 1,565 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and two valves per cylinder, delivering outputs between 65–85 PS. This design prioritised cost‑effective manufacturing and ease of service for Renault's mainstream models.
Fitted to platforms like the R9, R11, and early Clio, the C2J 730 offered a balance of low‑end torque and fuel economy for everyday driving. Its character is defined by adequate performance rather than high‑revving excitement. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through carburetion or single‑point injection, meeting applicable national standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, potentially leading to belt slippage or failure if not inspected. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 02‑05, is often linked to bearing failure under high mileage. The design remained largely unchanged throughout its production run.
Production years 1985–1992 predate standardized EU emissions regulations. Compliance was based on national standards applicable at time of manufacture (French DRIRE Type Approval).
The Renault C2J 730 is a 1,565 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1985-1992). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with carburetion or single‑point fuel injection to deliver adequate low‑end torque and straightforward mechanics. Designed for reliability and economy, it predates formal EU emissions standards.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,565 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.8 mm × 87.0 mm | |
| Power output | 65–85 PS (48–63 kW) | |
| Torque | 115–125 Nm @ 3,000–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Solex carburetor or Renault Monojetronic | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (National Standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (Mineral/Semi‑Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The SOHC design offers mechanical simplicity but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. Using mineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40 oil is adequate for its design. The carbureted versions demand periodic tuning for optimal economy and emissions. Monojetronic injection models are more reliable but share the same critical timing belt service requirement. Tensioner pulley inspection is mandatory during belt changes per Renault Technical Note MEC 02‑05.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 specification (Renault Service Manual Vol. 1, 1987). ACEA A3/B3 or equivalent is suitable.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification based on French DRIRE standards applicable at manufacture. No EU-wide homologation exists for this era.
Power Ratings: Measured under CEE/ECE standards. Output varies significantly between carbureted and injected variants (Renault PT-1990).
Renault Technical Information System: Notes MEC 01-03, MEC 02-05, MEC 04-08
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Ref. 77 11 202 347
Renault Service Manual Volume 1 (1987 Edition)
French DRIRE (Direction Régionale de l'Industrie, de la Recherche et de l'Environnement) Type Approval Archives
The Renault C2J 730 was used across Renault's R9/R11 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts for the R9 sedan versus R11 hatchback-creating minor parts interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Tech Note MEC 01-03). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to engine type (e.g., 'J' for C2J family). Carbureted engines have a visible Solex carburetor atop the intake manifold; Monojetronic versions have a single throttle body and fuel rail. Critical differentiation: Early R9/R11 blocks may have different mounting bosses. Service parts like timing covers and sumps are often platform-specific.
The C2J 730's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to neglected service intervals, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Renault service data indicates a significant number of engine replacements were attributable to this single failure mode, while owner reports frequently cite carburetor or injection system faults as common drivability issues. Infrequent use and extended service intervals dramatically increase the risk of belt failure, making adherence to the 60,000 km replacement schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1985-1992) and aggregated European owner club failure reports (1990-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT C2J-730.
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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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