The Renault D7F 700 is a 1,149 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2005. It features an all-aluminium block and cylinder head, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder, and a multi-point fuel injection system. Output is modest, typically 44 kW (60 PS), with torque peaking around 95 Nm, prioritising fuel efficiency and low-cost ownership.
Fitted primarily to the Twingo I and Clio II city cars, the D7F 700 was engineered for urban agility and minimal running costs. Its lightweight aluminium construction and simple design made it ideal for small, lightweight vehicles. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through electronic fuel injection and a catalytic converter, meeting Euro 2 and later Euro 3 standards.
One documented characteristic is sensitivity to ignition coil failure, which can lead to misfires and poor running. This issue, referenced in Renault's technical documentation for the Twingo, is often linked to heat cycling and electrical stress. The engine received minor ECU updates over its lifespan but remained fundamentally unchanged until replaced by the more advanced D4F engine.
Production years 1996–2000 meet Euro 2 standards; 2001–2005 models meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval documentation for relevant model years).
The Renault D7F 700 is a 1,149 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for city cars (1996-2005). It combines an all-aluminium construction with a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver adequate power for urban driving with exceptional fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 2 and Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and low weight over peak performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,149 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑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 (Magneti Marelli) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (1996-2000); Euro 3 (2001-2005) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 semi-synthetic | |
| Dry weight | 85 kg |
The engine provides adequate, economical performance for city driving but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic failure. The ignition coil pack is a known weak point and should be inspected if misfires occur. Using the correct semi-synthetic oil is recommended for optimal engine protection. The simple injection system is generally robust but can suffer from sensor faults (coolant temp, lambda) affecting economy and emissions.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 semi-synthetic oil specification (Renault Owner's Manual).
Emissions: Euro 2/3 certification applies to vehicles manufactured during this period (VCA Type Approval Database for relevant Renault models).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across applications (Renault Group PT Archive).
Renault Technical Information System (Workshop Manuals 77 11 312 888, 77 11 312 889)
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue)
Renault Owner's Manuals (Twingo, Clio)
The Renault D7F 700 was used across Renault's Twingo I and Clio II platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations during its production run. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange. The code will read "D7F 700" followed by a serial number. Visually, it is a compact, all-aluminium engine with a single cam cover and a plastic intake manifold. Differentiate from the D4F (1.2L 16V) by the SOHC 8-valve head and from the D7F 702/704 (higher power) by the specific power output and ECU mapping. Service parts are generally compatible across all D7F 700 applications.
The D7F 700's primary reliability risk is ignition coil failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Renault service documentation highlights the coil as a common wear item, while owner reports frequently cite timing belt neglect as a cause of catastrophic engine failure. Addressing these specific maintenance items is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2005) and owner-reported failure patterns. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT D7F-700.
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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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