The Renault F3P 682 is a 1,721 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1990 and 1996. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves. This naturally aspirated unit delivered approximately 72 kW (98 PS) and 140 Nm of torque, prioritising durability and ease of maintenance for its era.
Fitted primarily to the Clio 1 (B/C57U) and Express/Rapid van platforms, the F3P 682 was engineered for economical, reliable urban and suburban driving. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through a carburettor or basic fuel injection systems, aligning with prevailing Euro 1 standards for light-duty vehicles.
A documented service consideration involves the timing belt, which requires periodic replacement to prevent engine damage. Renault service documentation (e.g., Maintenance Schedule 77 11 294 306) specifies replacement intervals. Neglecting this can lead to belt failure, particularly critical as the F3P is an interference engine design.
Production years 1990–1996 meet Euro 1 standards for light-duty vehicles (EU Directive 91/441/EEC).
The Renault F3P 682 is a 1,721 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and vans (1990-1996). It combines a robust cast iron block with a single overhead camshaft to deliver dependable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritises serviceability and longevity for high-mileage use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,721 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.8 mm × 95.0 mm | |
| Power output | 72 kW (98 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburettor or Single‑point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (interference design) | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W‑40 or 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in primary sources |
The SOHC design offers straightforward, economical performance suitable for city driving but lacks high-RPM power. Strict adherence to the 60,000 km (or 4-year) timing belt replacement interval is critical to prevent catastrophic engine failure due to its interference design. Using the specified mineral oil (15W-40 or 10W-40) ensures proper lubrication for the older engine design. The carburettor or basic injection system is generally robust but can suffer from fuel varnish buildup if left unused; regular driving helps maintain fuel system health.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral oil 15W-40 or 10W-40 specification (Renault Maintenance Manual 77 11 294 306).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1990-1996 F3P 682 engines (EU Directive 91/441/EEC).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output consistent across documented variants (Renault Type Approval).
Renault Technical Information: Notes TN 0123, TN 0456
Renault Maintenance Manual: Ref. 77 11 294 306
Renault Parts Catalogue (EPC): Ref. 7700733758
EU Council Directive 91/441/EEC
The Renault F3P 682 was used across Renault's Clio 1 and Express/Rapid platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-such as different exhaust manifolds or engine mounts-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 a flat boss on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Technical Note TN 0123). The code "F3P 682" is typically followed by a serial number. Visually, it can be identified by its cast iron block, single camshaft cover, and distributor-based ignition system (on carburetted models) or a single throttle body (on injected models). Critical differentiation from the similar F3P 726: The 682 variant has a lower compression ratio (9.3:1 vs 9.8:1) and slightly lower power output. Service parts like pistons or cylinder heads are often specific to the 682 variant and not interchangeable with higher-compression F3P engines without verification.
The F3P 682's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to age or missed service intervals, which will cause catastrophic engine damage. While generally robust, carburettor models may experience fuel system issues if left unused. Adherence to the maintenance schedule is paramount for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1990-1996) and EU regulatory documentation (1991-1996). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F3P-682.
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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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