The Renault E7J 780 is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2001. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), multipoint fuel injection, and a cast iron block with an aluminium head. In standard form, it delivered 55 kW (75 PS) and 114 Nm of torque, balancing urban agility with modest highway capability.
Fitted primarily to the Clio I (B57) and Kangoo I (KC), the E7J 780 was engineered for compact vehicles requiring dependable, cost-effective performance. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through its electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter, meeting Euro 2 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the plastic thermostat housing, which can lead to coolant leaks and overheating. This issue, noted in Renault service bulletin SIB 01 03 99, is often attributed to material degradation under prolonged thermal stress. The design was revised in later E7J variants.
Production years 1996–2001 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Renault E7J 780 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and light commercial vehicles (1996-2001). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with multipoint fuel injection to deliver responsive low-to-mid range torque and low manufacturing cost. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritises reliability and economy for mixed urban and highway driving.
| 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 | Multipoint fuel injection (SAGEM) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The engine's linear power delivery suits city and A-road driving but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement to prevent catastrophic failure. Using RN0700/RN0710 oil is critical for valve train longevity. The plastic thermostat housing is prone to cracking; inspect for leaks during service. Fuel injectors may require cleaning if hesitation is noted, as per Renault SIB 01 03 99. The simple 8-valve design is robust but less efficient than later 16-valve engines.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or RN0710 specification (Renault Owner's Manual B57). Equivalent ACEA A3/B3 oils are acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1996–2001 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across all applications (Renault TIS Doc. E7J-001).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs E7J-001, E7J-002
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards
The Renault E7J 780 was used across Renault's B57/KC platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-cooling fan shroud design in the Kangoo-but no major revisions occurred during its initial production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS E7J-001). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code for Renault vehicles of this era. Visually, the E7J is identifiable by its 4-cylinder configuration, black plastic cam cover with "1.4 8V" marking, and SAGEM injection system. Critical differentiation from the later K4J: E7J has SOHC with 2 valves per cylinder, while K4J is DOHC with 4 valves per cylinder. Service parts for the intake manifold may vary between Clio and Kangoo applications.
The E7J 780's primary reliability risk is plastic thermostat housing failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles over 5 years old. Renault workshop data indicates this is a frequent cause of coolant loss, while its belt-driven design otherwise contributes to good long-term durability. Thermal stress makes housing inspection critical.
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-780.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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