The Renault F2N 732 is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1996. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder. Output ranged from 72 kW (98 PS) to 79 kW (107 PS), delivering dependable performance for its era.
Fitted to models such as the R19, R21, and early Laguna, the F2N 732 was engineered for durability and ease of maintenance in family vehicles. It offered a linear power delivery suited for relaxed cruising rather than high performance. Emissions compliance was managed through basic carburetion or single-point injection systems, meeting prevailing standards of the time.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt failure if not inspected. This issue, highlighted in Renault Technical Note ME 02 A, is often linked to bearing fatigue. The engine received minor updates throughout its life, including a transition to multi-point fuel injection in later variants for improved efficiency.
Production years 1985–1996 meet applicable national emissions standards for their respective model years (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault F2N 732 is a 1,995 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size models (1985-1996). It combines a robust cast iron block with SOHC valvetrain to deliver reliable, low-stress performance. Designed to meet the emissions standards of its production era, it prioritizes durability and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.7 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 72–79 kW (98–107 PS) | |
| Torque | 152–160 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburetor or Single-Point Injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro or Euro 1 (depending on year) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W-40 or 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The SOHC design offers mechanical simplicity and ease of repair but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. Using the specified mineral oil (15W-40) is recommended for optimal bearing protection in this older design. The carbureted variants are sensitive to fuel quality and require periodic jet cleaning. Multi-point injected later models offer better fuel economy and cold starts. Always verify the presence of the updated tensioner pulley (part #7700754823) per Technical Note ME 02 A during belt service.
Oil Specs: Requires Mineral 15W-40 specification for pre-1994 models (Renault Owner's Manual). Later models may accept semi-synthetic 10W-40.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to post-1992 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Pre-1992 models meet pre-Euro national standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Power varied by model application and fuel system (Renault Group PT-1995).
Renault Technical Information System: Notes ME 01 A, ME 02 A, ME 03 B
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC Engine Power Certification
The Renault F2N 732 was used across Renault's R19/R21 platforms with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts for the R21 saloon versus the R19 hatchback-and from 1990 the introduction of multi-point fuel injection, creating minor parts differences. 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 Vol. 3). The full designation "F2N 732" should be visible. Carbureted engines have a large Solex or Weber carburetor atop the intake manifold, while injected models have a throttle body and fuel rail. Critical differentiation from the similar F3N: F2N has an 8-valve head with a single cam cover, whereas F3N is a 16-valve engine with a wider, two-part cam cover. Service parts like the timing belt kit are specific to the F2N and not interchangeable with F3N.
The F2N 732's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to tensioner pulley wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage examples. Renault internal service data indicated a significant portion of engines required belt/tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while owner club surveys frequently cite this as the most common major repair. Neglecting the 60,000 km service interval makes catastrophic engine damage highly likely.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1985-1996) and owner club failure statistics (2000-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F2N-732.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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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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