The Renault D4F 786 is a 1,149 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2014. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection, delivering outputs around 55 kW (75 PS) and 105 Nm of torque. Its compact dimensions and light weight make it ideal for city cars, providing adequate power for urban mobility with an emphasis on low running costs.
Fitted primarily to the Twingo II and Modus, the D4F 786 was engineered for urban efficiency and ease of maintenance. Emissions compliance for its production run was met through standard three‑way catalytic converter technology, allowing it to conform to Euro 4 standards across its entire production lifecycle.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the exhaust camshaft position sensor, which can trigger limp-home mode. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Information Bulletin 04 03 12, is often attributed to heat stress and electrical connector degradation. Later production runs incorporated a revised sensor design with improved thermal shielding to mitigate this failure mode.
All production years (2007–2014) meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Renault D4F 786 is a 1,149 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for supermini and city car applications (2007-2014). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive low-end power and urban efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it prioritizes compactness and cost-effective running.
| 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 @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 89 kg |
The DOHC design provides adequate throttle response for city traffic but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Renault RN0700 specification to protect internal components. The timing chain is generally robust but tensioner wear can cause noise; inspection is advised at 120,000 km. The engine is sensitive to low-quality fuel which can clog injectors. A known issue is exhaust camshaft sensor failure (Renault SIB 04 03 12); symptoms include poor running and limp mode. Replacement with the revised sensor is the recommended fix.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault Owner's Manual). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2007–2014 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Power figures are for standard atmospheric conditions (Renault TIS Doc. M8001).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M7891, M8001, SIB 04 03 12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards
The Renault D4F 786 was used across Renault's B-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts for the Twingo and Modus-but no major ECU revisions occurred during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS M7891). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('F' for D4F series). Visually, the engine features a black plastic cam cover with '16V' embossed. Critical differentiation from the D4F 722: The D4F 786 shares the same physical block but is typically paired with a lower-output ECU and may have a different exhaust camshaft sensor (part number 82 00 254 333 for the revised unit per SIB 04 03 12).
The D4F 786's primary documented concern is exhaust camshaft position sensor failure, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Renault internal service data indicated a notable number of sensor replacements were performed under warranty, while owner reports frequently cite timing chain rattle on neglected examples. Sustained high under-bonnet temperatures and infrequent oil changes can accelerate component degradation.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2007-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT D4F-786.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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