The Renault F3N 718 is a 1,721 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1996. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. Output ranged from 72 kW (98 PS) to 79 kW (107 PS), offering a sportier character than its 8-valve F2N counterpart.
Fitted primarily to performance variants of the R19 and R21, the F3N 718 was engineered for more responsive performance while maintaining the durability expected of Renault engines. It offered a broader power band suited for spirited driving. Emissions compliance was managed through single-point or multi-point fuel injection systems, meeting prevailing standards of the time.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft drive belt tensioner, which can lead to belt slippage or failure if not inspected. This issue, highlighted in Renault Technical Note ME 05 B, is often linked to bearing fatigue. The engine received minor updates, including revised cam profiles and injection mapping in later variants for improved efficiency and emissions.
Production years 1985–1996 meet applicable national emissions standards for their respective model years (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Renault F3N 718 is a 1,721 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size performance models (1985-1996). It combines a robust cast iron block with DOHC valvetrain to deliver responsive, higher-revving performance. Designed to meet the emissions standards of its production era, it prioritizes drivability and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,721 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.7 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 72–79 kW (98–107 PS) | |
| Torque | 145–152 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-Point or Multi-Point Injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro or Euro 1 (depending on year) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W-40 or 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The DOHC 16-valve design offers improved airflow and a more responsive power band but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt and tensioner replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. Using the specified mineral oil (15W-40) is recommended for optimal bearing protection in this older design. Multi-point injected later models offer better fuel economy and cold starts. Always verify the presence of the updated tensioner pulley (part #7700754824) per Technical Note ME 05 B during belt service. The higher compression ratio demands good fuel quality to prevent knocking.
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/5679). 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 04 A, ME 05 B, ME 06 C
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC Engine Power Certification
The Renault F3N 718 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 "F3N 718" should be visible. All F3N engines have fuel injection (no carburetor) and a wide, two-part cam cover for the DOHC head. Critical differentiation from the similar F2N: F3N is a 16-valve engine with a wider, two-part cam cover, whereas F2N has an 8-valve head with a single cam cover. Service parts like the timing belt kit are specific to the F3N and not interchangeable with F2N.
The F3N 718'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 F3N-718.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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