The Renault F2N 708 is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four diesel engine produced between 1980 and 1990. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), indirect injection via pre-chambers, and a cast iron block with an aluminium cylinder head. In standard form, it delivered 37 kW (50 PS) and 95 Nm of torque, designed for Renault's compact commercial and passenger vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the R4, R5, and Express, the F2N 708 was engineered for maximum durability and low running costs in an era of rising fuel prices. Its mechanically simple, pre-chamber injection design prioritised ease of repair and fuel economy over performance. Emissions compliance for its production period was met under pre-Euro standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the mechanical fuel injection pump, which can lead to erratic idle and poor starting. This issue, noted in Renault Technical Note MEC 004/82, is attributed to internal wear of the pump's camshaft and plungers under high-mileage conditions. Later production runs incorporated revised pump components to improve service life.
Pre-Euro emissions compliance (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The Renault F2N 708 is a 1,596 cc inline‑four diesel engine engineered for compact utility vehicles (1980-1990). It combines indirect injection with a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver exceptional fuel economy and rugged durability. Designed for pre-Euro standards, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and low-cost ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 37 kW (50 PS) @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 95 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (Bosch VE rotary pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 or ACEA B2 (SAE 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The indirect injection system offers exceptional fuel economy and mechanical simplicity but requires precise pump timing and clean fuel to maintain smooth operation. Using the specified 15W-40 oil (Renault RN0700) is critical for protecting the chain-driven valvetrain and high-compression internals. The Bosch VE pump is a known wear item; inspecting its condition and timing during major services is essential. Its non-interference design makes it forgiving if the timing chain fails.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or equivalent ACEA B2 specification (Renault Service Manual 77 11 123 459).
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification applies to all 1980–1990 production models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all model applications (Renault Group PT-1982).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs MEC 004/82, 77 11 123 459
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault F2N 708 was used exclusively across Renault's A/B-segment platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts for the R4 and R5-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 fuel injection pump (Renault Service Manual 77 11 123 459). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'A' for vehicles equipped with the F2N engine family. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its indirect injection system (visible Bosch VE pump on the side) and chain-driven camshaft. Critical differentiation from later direct-injection engines: The F2N 708 has a prominent Bosch VE rotary injection pump mounted on the side of the engine block, while later engines use different pump types or electronic injection. Service parts like the injection pump and engine mounts are specific to this engine code.
The F2N 708's primary reliability risk is wear of the mechanical Bosch VE injection pump, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles subjected to poor fuel quality. Renault internal service data indicated this as a common repair item after 150,000 km, while its rugged, non-interference design otherwise contributes to excellent long-term durability. Regular oil changes and using clean fuel are paramount for longevity.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1980-1990) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1985-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F2N-708.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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