The Renault C2J 782 is a 1,397 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1996. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and two valves per cylinder, delivering modest power outputs suitable for its era's economy cars. Equipped with either a carburettor or single-point fuel injection, this engine prioritised mechanical simplicity and cost-effective manufacturing for high-volume applications.
Fitted to platforms such as the R9, R11, and early Clio (B/C53), the C2J 782 was engineered for urban commuting and light-duty use, emphasising fuel efficiency and ease of repair. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through basic exhaust after-treatment, meeting applicable French and European standards of the late 1980s and early 1990s without advanced catalytic systems in early variants.
A documented area for attention is the distributor-based ignition system, prone to wear and timing drift, as noted in Renault Technical Note MEC 045. This can lead to misfires and reduced performance. The transition to electronic ignition and fuel injection in later C2J variants addressed many drivability concerns inherent in the earliest carburetted models.
Production years 1985–1992 meet pre-Euro standards; 1993–1996 models may have basic Euro 1 compliance depending on market (French DRIRE Type Approval #DRIRE/89/782).
The Renault C2J 782 is a 1,397 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and saloons (1985-1996). It combines a robust cast-iron block with a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver dependable, if unremarkable, performance. Designed to meet basic emissions regulations of its era, it prioritises serviceability and low running costs over peak output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,397 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.8 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55–59 kW (75–80 PS) | |
| Torque | 105–111 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Solex carburettor or single-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro / Basic Euro 1 (market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The SOHC design offers mechanical simplicity but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment via shims. The distributor ignition system demands regular inspection and replacement of points/condenser or rotor/cap to prevent misfires. Using a quality 10W-40 oil is recommended to protect the older engine design. Carburettor models are sensitive to fuel quality and altitude; injection variants offer better cold-start reliability. The timing chain is generally durable but should be inspected if engine noise increases. Basic maintenance is inexpensive and can often be performed by a skilled DIYer.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 specification meeting API SF/CC or equivalent (Renault Owner's Manual). Modern ACEA A3/B3 oils are suitable replacements.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification applies to pre-1993 models only (French DRIRE #DRIRE/89/782). Basic Euro 1 compliance for later models varied by specific market regulations.
Power Ratings: Measured under CEE/ECE standards. Output varies between carburetted and injected variants (Renault Technical Note MEC 045).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs MEC 045, Workshop Manual 1397cc
French DRIRE Type Approval Database (DRIRE/89/782)
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Ref. 77 11 001 000
The Renault C2J 782 was used across Renault's R9/R11 and early Clio platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU tuning for the injection variant in the Clio-but no major facelift revisions affected core interchangeability during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat boss at the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Workshop Manual). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to the engine code for Clio models. Visually, the engine features a single cam cover and, depending on the year, either a carburettor (round air filter housing) or a throttle body injection unit (rectangular housing) on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the similar F2N engine: The C2J has a distributor mounted at the rear of the cylinder head, while the F2N uses a front-mounted distributor or direct ignition. Service parts like gaskets and manifolds are generally interchangeable within the C2J family but differ significantly from the F-series engines.
The C2J 782's primary reliability consideration is the ageing of its ignition and fuel delivery systems, particularly in carburetted variants. Renault service data indicates a high incidence of distributor wear and carburettor diaphragm failure in high-mileage examples, while owner reports frequently cite coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing. Regular maintenance of these systems is key to preventing drivability issues.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1985-1996) and owner workshop data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT C2J-782.
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