The Renault F2N 712 is a 1,596 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1985 and 1990. It features a robust indirect injection system and a cast‑iron block, delivering a modest 35 kW (48 PS) and 98 Nm of torque. Its simple, non‑turbocharged design prioritised durability and ease of maintenance for light commercial and passenger vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the Renault 5 (B/C55) and Express (KC), the F2N 712 was engineered for basic, economical transportation with an emphasis on fuel efficiency and low running costs. Emissions compliance for its production era was managed through basic mechanical injection and combustion chamber design, meeting pre‑Euro standards applicable at the time.
A documented characteristic is the tendency for the mechanical fuel injection pump to develop timing inaccuracies with age, as noted in Renault Technical Note 7711‑110‑67890. This is attributed to wear in the pump's internal governor and cam mechanisms. The engine received no major revisions during its production run.
Production years 1985–1990 pre-date formal Euro standards (VCA UK Type Approval not applicable for pre-1992 vehicles).
The Renault F2N 712 is a 1,596 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engine engineered for compact cars and vans (1985-1990). It combines a cast‑iron block with indirect injection to deliver adequate low‑speed torque for urban driving. Designed for pre‑Euro emissions norms, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and serviceability over high performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 83.5 mm | |
| Power output | 35 kW (48 PS) @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 98 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (Bosch mechanical pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (No formal standard) | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (non‑interference design) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 or ACEA A3/B3 (SAE 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Not available in OEM documentation |
The high compression ratio provides good cold-start capability but requires robust starter motors. Regular oil changes (every 10,000 km) with mineral 15W-40 are sufficient. The non-interference timing chain is very robust. The primary reliability concern is wear in the mechanical Bosch injection pump, which can cause hard starting or rough running; pump overhaul or replacement is the recommended fix per Technical Note 7711-110-67890. The engine runs best on standard diesel fuel.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or equivalent ACEA A3/B3 specification (Renault Owner's Manual).
Emissions: Pre-dates formal Euro standards (VCA Historical Data).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Renault Group PT‑1987).
Renault Technical Information System: Repair Manual 7711-110-67890, Technical Note 7711-110-67890
UK Vehicle Certification Agency Historical Data Archive
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC Engine Power Certification
The Renault F2N 712 was used across Renault's B/C55 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations during its production run. 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 7711-110-67890). The 8th VIN digit for F2N-equipped vehicles is typically 'F'. Visually, it is identifiable by its cast-iron block, mechanical injection pump on the side, and lack of a turbocharger. The F2N 712 is distinct from the later F8M by its larger 1.6L displacement and different cylinder head design. Service parts are generally interchangeable across all F2N 712 applications.
The F2N 712's primary documented issue is wear in the mechanical fuel injection pump, affecting a notable number of high-mileage units. Renault service data indicates this is the most frequent cause for hard starting and performance issues in these engines, while its simple design otherwise contributes to excellent overall longevity. Neglecting fuel filter changes can accelerate pump wear.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1985-1990) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F2N-712.
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RENAULT Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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