The Renault D7F 746 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 head. In standard form, it delivered 37 kW (50 PS) and 62 Nm of torque, prioritising compact packaging and urban efficiency over outright power.
Fitted primarily to the Twingo I (C06) and Clio I/II (B/C57), the D7F 746 was engineered for light city cars requiring low runnin…
Production years 1996–2004 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault D7F 746 is a 748 cc inline‑three petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (1996-2004). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with multipoint fuel injection to deliver adequate urban performance and low manufacturing cost. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritises reliability and economy for city driving.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 748 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 6‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 60.0 mm × 70.0 mm | |
Power output | 37 kW (50 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
Torque | 62 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 camshaft | |
Oil type | Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 72 kg |
The Renault D7F 746 was used across Renault's C06/B57 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-cooling system routing in the Clio-but no major revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The D7F 746's primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold stud failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Renault workshop data indicates this is the most common repair for engines beyond 100,000 km, while its simple design otherwise contributes to good long-term durability. Thermal cycling makes manifold inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2004) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
Yes, the D7F 746 is generally reliable long-term due to its simple, robust design. Its main weakness is the exhaust manifold studs, which often fail after 100,000 km. With regular oil changes and timely replacement of the manifold studs, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 km.
The most common issues are broken exhaust manifold studs, noisy valve tappets requiring adjustment, clogged fuel injectors causing rough running, and oil leaks from the rocker cover gasket. These are well-documented in Renault service information.
The D7F 746 was used in the first-generation Renault Twingo (C06, 1996-2004) and the first-generation Clio (B57, 1996-1998) and early second-generation Clio (C57, 1998-2001), specifically in their base 1.2 RN petrol variants.
Significant power gains are difficult due to its small displacement and simple SOHC design. Minor improvements can be had from a performance exhaust or remap, but gains are typically under 5 kW. It's better suited to its role as an economical city engine.
Excellent for city driving. Expect around 5.5 L/100km (51 mpg UK) in urban conditions and up to 4.5 L/100km (63 mpg UK) on the highway. Combined figures are typically around 5.0 L/100km (56 mpg UK) for a well-maintained vehicle.
No. The Renault D7F 746 is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail, the pistons and valves would not collide, preventing catastrophic internal engine damage. This is a key safety feature of its design.
Renault recommends RN0700 or RN0710 specification oil, typically a 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic. Using the correct specification is important for the hydraulic chain tensioner. Change intervals should be every 10,000 km or 12 months.
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