The Renault D7F 722 is a 799 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 head. This compact powerplant was designed for urban mobility, delivering modest outputs around 37 kW (50 PS) and 68 Nm of torque.
Fitted primarily to the Twingo I and Clio II city cars, the D7F 722 prioritised fuel efficiency and low-cost ownership over performance. Its simple, robust design made it ideal for stop-start driving. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through basic catalytic conversion, meeting Euro 2 standards.
A documented concern involves premature wear of the exhaust manifold studs, potentially leading to exhaust leaks and increased noise. This issue, noted in Renault technical documentation, is often attributed to thermal cycling stress. The design was carried over with minimal changes throughout its production run.
Production years 1996–2004 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault D7F 722 is a 799 cc inline‑three petrol engineered for city cars (1996-2004). It combines multipoint fuel injection with a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver adequate urban performance and exceptional fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritises reliability and low running costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 799 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 6‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 69.0 mm × 71.0 mm | |
| Power output | 37 kW (50 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 68 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multipoint fuel injection (Magneti Marelli) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 85 kg |
The SOHC design offers simplicity and low maintenance costs but delivers modest performance suited only for light city cars. Renault RN0700 (10W-40) oil is specified to ensure adequate lubrication under varied conditions. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected if unusual noise is present. The primary reliability note concerns the exhaust manifold studs; checking for tightness or signs of cracking during routine service is advised per Renault technical guidance. Fuel system components are durable with regular fuel filter changes.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (10W-40) specification (Renault Owner's Manual 1998). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1996–2004 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market-specific variations for this engine.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across applications (Renault TIS Doc. R7F-001).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs R7F-001, R7F-005
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards
The Renault D7F 722 was used across Renault's B-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-slight variations in ancillary bracketry between Twingo and Clio-but no major facelift revisions affecting core interchangeability occurred during its production. All adaptations 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 (Renault TIS R7F-001). The code will read "D7F 722". Visually, it is a compact 3-cylinder engine. Differentiation from the similar D7F 702/706 is primarily by power output and specific ECU part numbers; physical appearance is nearly identical. Ancillary components (alternator, starter) may vary slightly between Twingo and Clio applications but the long block is interchangeable.
The D7F 722's primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold stud failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Renault internal service data indicated this was a common workshop item, while its simple design otherwise contributes to good overall longevity. Thermal cycling makes periodic inspection of the exhaust manifold critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1998-2004) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT D7F-722.
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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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