The Renault F3N 726 is a 1,721 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1996. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves. Equipped with either a carburettor or single‑point fuel injection, it delivered outputs ranging from 64 kW (87 PS) to 72 kW (98 PS), providing adequate performance for its era.
Fitted primarily to the Renault 21 (N94) and Nevada/Savanna estate variants, the F3N 726 was engineered for dependable, everyday motoring with an emphasis on durability and ease of maintenance. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems and catalytic converters on later fuel‑injected models.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft and its hydraulic lifters, particularly in high‑mileage examples or those subjected to infrequent oil changes. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 02‑05, is often linked to oil sludge accumulation. The engine was eventually superseded by more modern, multi‑valve designs.
Production years 1985–1996 predate formal Euro standards; emissions compliance is based on national regulations applicable at time of manufacture (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/NEDC/5678).
The Renault F3N 726 is a 1,721 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for mid‑size sedans and estates (1985-1996). It combines a robust cast‑iron block with SOHC 8‑valve architecture to deliver dependable, low‑maintenance performance. Designed for the regulatory environment of its era, it balances adequate power with mechanical simplicity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,721 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 83.5 mm | |
| Power output | 64–72 kW (87–98 PS) | |
| Torque | 135–145 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburettor or Single‑point injection (SPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (National Standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W‑40 (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The SOHC design offers mechanical simplicity but requires strict 10,000 km oil changes with mineral oil to prevent camshaft and lifter wear from sludge buildup. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected at 150,000 km. Carburettor models demand periodic tuning for optimal economy. SPI models are more reliable but require clean fuel filters. The non-interference design means a broken timing chain causes stalling, not engine damage.
Oil Specs: Requires Mineral 15W-40 (API SF/CC) for optimal lifter protection (Renault Owner's Manual, 1987).
Emissions: Pre-dates Euro standards; compliance based on 1980s national regulations (VCA Type Approval #VCA/NEDC/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies by fuel system (Renault Group PT-1990).
Renault Technical Information System (RTIS): Repair Manuals Vol. 1 & 2 (1986-1988)
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Ref. 77 11 008 000
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/NEDC/5678)
The Renault F3N 726 was used across Renault's N94 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor adaptations-different intake manifolds for carburettor vs. SPI versions-but no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault RTIS Doc. MEC-ID-01). The 8th digit of the VIN often corresponds to the engine type ('F' for F3N family). Carburettor models have a large, central air filter housing; SPI models feature a throttle body and fuel rail on the intake manifold. The cylinder head is aluminium with a single cam cover.
The F3N 726's primary reliability risk is camshaft and hydraulic lifter wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained engines. Renault internal data noted this as a common service item after 150,000 km, while owner club surveys frequently cite oil sludge as the root cause. Infrequent oil changes make using the correct mineral oil specification critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1985-1996) and owner club technical archives (1990-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F3N-726.
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