The Renault D4F 728 is a 1,149 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2008. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder, balancing efficiency with modest performance. In standard form, it delivered approximately 44 kW (60 PS), designed for responsive urban driving in compact vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Clio II and Twingo II, the D4F 728 was engineered for fuel economy and low emissions in city environments. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through multi-point fuel injection and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 3 standards for most of its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in high-mileage or poorly maintained units. This issue, referenced in Renault's internal Technical Note TN‑D4F‑03, is often linked to inadequate oil changes or the use of incorrect oil viscosity. The engine received minor updates to camshaft metallurgy in later production years.
Production years 1999–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2008 models comply with Euro 4 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault D4F 728 is a 1,149 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (1999-2008). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver peppy low-end response and efficient urban running. Designed to meet Euro 3 (and later Euro 4) standards, it prioritises compact packaging and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,149 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 68.0 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 44 kW (60 PS) | |
| Torque | 95 Nm @ 3,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre‑2006); Euro 4 (2006–2008) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Synthetic 5W‑30 (ACEA A3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | 92 kg |
The DOHC 16-valve design offers responsive throttle feel but requires strict 15,000 km oil changes with the specified 5W-30 synthetic to prevent camshaft lobe wear. The timing belt is critical and must be replaced every 80,000 km or 5 years to avoid interference engine damage. The Siemens fuel injection system is generally robust but relies on a clean fuel filter. Using lower-grade fuel can cause pinging due to the 9.8:1 compression ratio.
Oil Specs: Requires Synthetic 5W-30 (ACEA A3/B4) specification (Renault TN-D4F-03). Mineral oils accelerate camshaft wear.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 1999-2005 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). 2006-2008 models meet Euro 4 for EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Renault Homologation Dossier).
Renault Service Manual: Engine D4F
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Ref. 77 11 000 100
Renault Technical Note: TN-D4F-01, TN-D4F-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Renault D4F 728 was used across Renault's Clio II and Twingo II platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds and engine mounts between the Clio and Twingo. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange. The full code for this variant is 'D4F 728'. Visually, it is identified by its DOHC valve cover and plastic intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the larger K4M engine: D4F is 1.2L with a timing belt, while K4M is 1.6L. Service parts like the timing belt kit are specific to the D4F series and not interchangeable with other Renault 1.2L engines.
The D4F 728's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in engines subjected to extended oil change intervals. Renault Technical Note TN-D4F-03 documents this issue, while owner club data suggests it is a leading cause of major repairs in high-mileage examples. Neglecting oil changes or using incorrect viscosity makes adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1999-2008) and owner club maintenance logs. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT D4F-728.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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RENAULT Official Site
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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)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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