The Renault D4F 784 is a 1,149 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2010. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. This compact unit delivered 55 kW (75 PS) and 105 Nm of torque, prioritizing urban efficiency. Its lightweight aluminium block contributes to overall vehicle economy.
Fitted primarily to the Clio II (B/C segments) and Twingo I, the D4F 784 was engineered for agile city driving and low running costs. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through its efficient combustion design and catalytic converter, allowing it to conform to Euro 3 standards, with later variants potentially meeting Euro 4 in specific markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in higher-mileage examples. This issue, referenced in Renault's internal technical reports, is often attributed to marginal lubrication under sustained high-RPM operation. The design was carried over from earlier D-series engines, with no major revisions addressing this specific wear point before the engine's phase-out.
Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2010 models may have Euro 4 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault D4F 784 is a 1,149 cc inline‑four petrol engineered for supermini applications (2000-2010). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive low-end power and frugal urban consumption. Designed to meet Euro 3 (and some market-specific Euro 4) standards, it prioritizes compactness and efficiency.
| 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 | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 105 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre‑2006); Euro 4 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 89 kg |
The DOHC design offers crisp throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine failure. Renault RN0700/0710 specification oil is critical for protecting the camshaft lobes from premature wear. The engine is sensitive to low-quality fuel, which can cause injector clogging and rough running. While generally robust, the exhaust camshaft is a known wear item on high-mileage engines; listening for a distinct tapping noise from the cylinder head can indicate early failure. Regular valve clearance checks (shim-under-bucket) are recommended every 120,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or RN0710 specification (Renault Owner's Manual). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2006 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2006-2010 models meet Euro 4 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault TIS Doc. R-MP-001).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs R-MP-001, R-ENG-012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Renault D4F 784 was used across Renault's B-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts for the Clio II versus the Twingo I-creating minor interchange limits for ancillary components. 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 (Renault TIS R-ID-002). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code for Renault vehicles of this era. Visually, the D4F 784 is identifiable by its black plastic cam cover with "16V" embossed on it. Critical differentiation from the larger K4M engine: The D4F is significantly smaller and lacks the K4M's balance shafts. Ancillary components like the alternator or starter motor may not be interchangeable between Clio and Twingo applications due to different mounting orientations (Renault SIB 02-04-2003).
The D4F 784's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or frequently high-RPM driven vehicles. Internal Renault reports indicate this was a notable failure mode for engines exceeding 150,000 km, while general owner feedback highlights timing belt neglect as a leading cause of catastrophic failure. Aggressive driving and infrequent oil changes accelerate cam wear, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2002-2008) and owner-reported failure data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT D4F-784.
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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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