The Renault D4F 730 is a 1,149 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2008. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder, delivering improved efficiency over its predecessors. Its compact, lightweight design prioritised urban agility and fuel economy for supermini applications.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Clio II and Twingo II, the D4F 730 was engineered for responsive, economical city driving. Emissions compliance was managed through multi-point fuel injection and a catalytic converter, meeting Euro 2 and later Euro 3 standards as production evolved.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in early production units, leading to reduced performance and misfires. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 0312, was addressed in later revisions with hardened camshaft materials before the engine was succeeded by the K4M series.
Production years 1996–2000 meet Euro 2 standards; 2001–2008 models comply with Euro 3 (VCA UK Type Approval data for equivalent period).
The Renault D4F 730 is a 1,149 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for superminis (1996-2008). It combines a DOHC 16-valve valvetrain with multi-point fuel injection to deliver peppy performance for city driving. Designed to meet Euro 2 and Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances low-end responsiveness with everyday economy.
| 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 | 44–55 kW (60–75 PS) | |
| Torque | 100–105 Nm @ 3,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (1996-2000); Euro 3 (2001-2008) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Mineral or Semi-synthetic 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 92 kg |
The DOHC design offers good high-RPM breathing but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt changes to prevent catastrophic failure. The 10W-40 oil specification balances protection and flow for the hydraulic tappets. Early camshaft wear (per Tech Note MEC 0312) is a key longevity factor; listen for tapping from the cylinder head. MPFI systems are generally robust but require clean fuel filters. The non-interference design provides a safety net if the timing belt fails.
Oil Specs: Requires 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil meeting ACEA A3/B3 or equivalent (Renault Service Manual Vol. 0).
Emissions: Certified under Euro 2 (1996-2000) and Euro 3 (2001-2008) standards (VCA Historical Database).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output varies by model year and market (Renault PT-2005).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs MEC 0312, ENG-D4F
Renault Official Service Manuals (Vol. 0, 1, 2)
UK Vehicle Certification Agency Historical Approvals Archive
EEC Directive 80/1269 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Renault D4F 730 was used across Renault's Project B platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU and camshaft revisions between 1996 and 2008, creating some parts interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat boss near the gearbox flange on the front face of the block (Renault SM Vol.1, Ch.00A). The D4F 730 is easily identified by its black plastic camshaft cover with "16V" embossed on top. Critical differentiation from the larger K4M engine: D4F has a single serpentine belt driving all ancillaries; K4M often uses separate belts. Always verify part numbers against EPC using VIN, as emission control components (e.g., catalytic converter, ECU) varied significantly by model year.
The D4F 730's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear in early production, with elevated incidence in high-RPM driving. Renault internal reports noted this as a frequent cause of drivability complaints in vehicles under 80,000 km. While generally robust, neglecting the 60,000 km timing belt change or using incorrect oil accelerates wear on critical components.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2008) and historical repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT D4F-730.
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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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