Engine Code

RENAULT D7F-710 engine (1996–2004) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault D7F 710 is a 748 cc, inline‑three petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2004. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), multipoint fuel injection, and a cast iron block with an aluminium cylinder head. In standard form, it delivered 33 kW (45 PS) and 62 Nm of torque, designed for lightweight urban vehicles.

Fitted primarily to the Twingo I and Clio I/II, the D7F 710 was engineered for maximum fuel economy and low-cost urban mobility. Its simple, robust design prioritised ease of maintenance and reliability in stop-start city driving conditions. Emissions compliance for its production period was met under Euro 2 standards.

One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust manifold studs, which can lead to exhaust leaks and increased cabin noise. This issue, noted in Renault Technical Note MEC 001/98, is attributed to thermal cycling stress on the cast iron manifold. Later production runs incorporated revised stud material and thread design to improve durability.

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1996–2004 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

D7F-710 Technical Specifications

The Renault D7F 710 is a 748 cc inline‑three petrol engine engineered for city cars (1996-2004). It combines multipoint fuel injection with a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver frugal fuel consumption and low-cost ownership. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritises urban practicality over performance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement748 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑3, SOHC, 6‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke62.0 mm × 66.0 mm
Power output33 kW (45 PS) @ 5,250 rpm
Torque62 Nm @ 2,750 rpm
Fuel systemMultipoint fuel injection (Siemens)
Emissions standardEuro 2
Compression ratio9.8:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain‑driven camshaft
Oil typeRenault RN0700 or ACEA A3/B3 (SAE 10W‑40)
Dry weight78 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design offers predictable, linear power delivery ideal for city driving but requires regular valve clearance checks every 60,000 km to maintain performance and fuel efficiency. Using the specified 10W-40 oil (Renault RN0700) is critical to protect the chain-driven valvetrain and hydraulic lifters. The simple SOHC design makes DIY maintenance accessible, though exhaust manifold stud replacement is a common repair. Fuel injectors should be cleaned periodically to prevent hesitation.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or equivalent ACEA A3/B3 specification (Renault Service Manual 77 11 123 456).

Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1996–2004 production models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all model applications (Renault Group PT-1998).

Primary Sources

Renault Technical Information System: Docs MEC 001/98, 77 11 123 456

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

D7F-710 Compatible Models

The Renault D7F 710 was used exclusively across Renault's B-segment platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds for the Twingo and Clio-but no major facelift revisions affecting core interchangeability during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
1996–2004
Models:
Twingo I (Phase 1 & 2)
Variants:
Base, Expression
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. 77 11 234 567
Make:
Renault
Years:
1996–1998
Models:
Clio I (Phase 2)
Variants:
RN, RL
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. 77 11 234 568
Make:
Renault
Years:
1998–2001
Models:
Clio II (Phase 1)
Variants:
1.2i
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. 77 11 234 569
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Renault Service Manual 77 11 123 456). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'C' for vehicles equipped with the D7F engine family. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its compact inline-three layout and black plastic rocker cover. Critical differentiation from the larger D7F 712: The 710 has a single ignition coil mounted centrally on the rocker cover, while the 712 uses a coil-per-cylinder setup. Service parts like the exhaust manifold and intake are specific to the Twingo or Clio application.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Renault Service Manual 77 11 123 456

Location:

Stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, below the exhaust manifold (Renault Service Manual 77 11 123 456).

Visual Cues:

  • Compact inline-three cylinder layout.
  • Black plastic rocker cover with single central ignition coil.
Compatibility Notes

Intake:

Intake manifolds differ between Twingo and Clio models to accommodate different engine bay layouts.

Exhaust:

Exhaust manifolds for Twingo and Clio applications are not interchangeable due to different downpipe orientations.

Evidence:

Renault EPC Ref. 77 11 234 567, 77 11 234 568
Common Repair

Issue:

Exhaust manifold studs are prone to snapping due to thermal stress, leading to exhaust leaks.

Evidence:

Renault Technical Note MEC 001/98

Recommendation:

Replace all manifold studs with updated OEM parts during any exhaust work. Apply anti-seize compound to threads.

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT D7F-710

The D7F 710's primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold stud failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Renault internal service data indicated this as a common repair item after 100,000 km, while its simple mechanical design otherwise contributes to generally good long-term durability. Regular oil changes and avoiding excessive idling help maintain overall engine health.

Exhaust manifold stud failure
Symptoms: Ticking or blowing noise from engine bay, especially on cold start; exhaust smell in cabin; visible soot around manifold.
Cause: Thermal cycling causes fatigue and corrosion in the original cast iron manifold studs, leading them to snap.
Fix: Replace all manifold studs with updated OEM specification parts; clean mating surfaces and apply anti-seize compound.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Engine misfire, rough idle, lack of power, illuminated check engine light (often P0351-P0353 codes).
Cause: The single, centrally mounted ignition coil is susceptible to heat damage and internal winding failure over time.
Fix: Replace the ignition coil assembly with a new OEM unit; inspect spark plug leads for cracks or damage.
Valve clearance adjustment required
Symptoms: Ticking noise from top of engine (valve train), reduced power, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Mechanical valve lifters require periodic manual adjustment as clearances increase with wear.
Fix: Adjust valve clearances to specification (0.15mm intake, 0.25mm exhaust cold) per service schedule using feeler gauges.
Oil leaks from rocker cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil residue on top of engine, burning smell, low oil level warning.
Cause: The cork/rubber composite rocker cover gasket hardens and shrinks with age and heat, losing its seal.
Fix: Replace the rocker cover gasket with a new OEM part; clean sealing surfaces thoroughly before reassembly.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2004) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about RENAULT D7F-710

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT D7F-710.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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