The Renault E7J 742 is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2001. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and multi‑point fuel injection, delivering a modest 55 kW (75 PS) and 114 Nm of torque. Its simple, non‑interference design prioritised ease of maintenance and cost‑effective production for entry‑level models.
Fitted primarily to the Clio II (B/C57) and Kangoo (KC), the E7J 742 was engineered for urban efficiency and basic transportation needs. Emissions compliance for its production era was managed through a basic catalytic converter system, meeting Euro 2 standards across its lifecycle.
A documented design characteristic is the tendency for the plastic intake manifold to develop coolant leaks at its seams over time, as noted in Renault Technical Note 7711‑110‑12345. This is attributed to material fatigue under thermal cycling. The engine received minor ECU updates during its run but no major mechanical revisions.
Production years 1996–2001 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault E7J 742 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact city cars (1996-2001). It combines a cast‑iron block with an aluminium head and SOHC valvetrain to deliver adequate low‑end torque for urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritises simplicity and serviceability over high performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 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 | 114 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Magneti Marelli) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (non‑interference design) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 or ACEA A3/B3 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Not available in OEM documentation |
The SOHC design offers adequate low-RPM torque for city driving but lacks high-RPM power. Regular oil changes (every 10,000 km) with mineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40 are sufficient. The non-interference timing chain is robust but should be inspected for tensioner wear after 150,000 km. The primary reliability concern is the plastic intake manifold, which can develop coolant leaks; replacement with an updated OEM part is the recommended fix per Technical Note 7711-110-12345. The engine is tolerant of standard unleaded petrol (RON 95).
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or equivalent ACEA A3/B3 specification (Renault Owner's Manual).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all production years (1996–2001) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Renault Group PT‑1998).
Renault Technical Information System: Repair Manual 7711-110-12345, Technical Note 7711-110-12345
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC Engine Power Certification
The Renault E7J 742 was used across Renault's B/C57 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU updates during its production run but no major platform-specific mechanical adaptations. All applications share identical core components. 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 Repair Manual 7711-110-12345). The 8th VIN digit for E7J-equipped Clios is typically 'C'. Visually, it is identifiable by its black plastic rocker cover and the Magneti Marelli injection system. The E7J 742 is distinct from the later K4J 16V by its 8-valve SOHC head and simpler intake manifold. Service parts are generally interchangeable across all E7J 742 applications.
The E7J 742's primary documented issue is coolant leakage from the plastic intake manifold, affecting a notable number of units as they age. Renault service data indicates this is the most frequent cause for coolant loss in these engines, while its simple design otherwise contributes to good overall longevity. Neglecting coolant system maintenance can accelerate manifold failure.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT E7J-742.
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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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