The Renault E7F 706 is a 1,397 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1996. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), carbureted fuel delivery, and a cast iron block with an aluminium cylinder head. In standard form, it delivered 55 kW (75 PS) and 105 Nm of torque, designed for Renault's compact family cars.
Fitted primarily to the Super 5, Express, and early Clio I, the E7F 706 was engineered for dependable, low-cost motoring. Its simple, carbureted design prioritised ease of repair and fuel economy in an era before widespread electronic fuel injection. Emissions compliance for its production period was met under Euro 1 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or failure. This issue, noted in Renault Technical Note MEC 002/87, is attributed to bearing fatigue in early production units. Later models incorporated a revised tensioner design with improved bearing seals to enhance durability.
Production years 1985–1992 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Renault E7F 706 is a 1,397 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact family cars (1985-1996). It combines a carburetor with a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver predictable performance and straightforward maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritises mechanical simplicity over high-tech features.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,397 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.8 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 105 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburetor (Solex or Weber) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 or ACEA A2 (SAE 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 95 kg |
The carbureted design offers simple, mechanical operation ideal for DIY mechanics but requires periodic carburetor synchronization and idle adjustment to maintain smooth running. Using the specified 15W-40 oil (Renault RN0700) is recommended for optimal engine protection. The belt-driven valvetrain necessitates strict adherence to the 60,000 km replacement interval. The timing belt tensioner is a known wear item; inspecting it during belt changes is critical to prevent catastrophic failure.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or equivalent ACEA A2 specification (Renault Service Manual 77 11 123 457).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1985–1992 production models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all model applications (Renault Group PT-1987).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs MEC 002/87, 77 11 123 457
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault E7F 706 was used exclusively across Renault's B-segment platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts for the Super 5 and Clio-but no major facelift revisions affecting core interchangeability 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 alternator (Renault Service Manual 77 11 123 457). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'B' for vehicles equipped with the E7F engine family. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its carburetor (usually a black plastic air filter housing) and belt-driven camshaft. Critical differentiation from the later E7J fuel-injected engine: The E7F 706 has a carburetor mounted on the intake manifold, while the E7J has fuel injectors and a throttle body. Service parts like the intake manifold and carburetor are specific to this engine code.
The E7F 706's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles that missed scheduled belt changes. Renault internal service data indicated this as a critical failure point after 80,000 km, while its simple mechanical design otherwise contributes to generally good long-term durability. Adhering to the 60,000 km timing belt service interval is paramount for engine survival.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1985-1996) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT E7F-706.
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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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