The Renault F3R 769 is a 1,721 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1992 and 1996. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder. Output is typically 59 kW (80 PS), with torque around 140 Nm, providing adequate performance for economical urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to the Renault 21 (B/C48_), the F3R 769 was engineered for reliable, cost-effective motoring in mid-size sedans and estates. Its simple SOHC design prioritised durability and ease of maintenance. Emissions compliance for its production period was met under prevailing Euro 1 standards through basic engine management and a catalytic converter.
One documented concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, which can lead to ignition timing drift and misfires. This issue, noted in Renault service documentation, is often attributed to material fatigue in early production units. Later production runs saw revised gear materials to mitigate this.
Production years 1992–1996 meet Euro 1 standards as per EU Directive 91/441/EEC (VCA UK Type Approval applicable for registered imports).
The Renault F3R 769 is a 1,721 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and estates (1992-1996). It combines a robust cast iron block with a simple SOHC 8-valve head to deliver dependable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritised serviceability and cost-effectiveness over peak output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,721 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.5 mm × 87.0 mm | |
| Power output | 59 kW (80 PS) | |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Mono-Jetronic injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | Mineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40 or 15W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design offers robust, low-maintenance motoring but lacks the refinement or power of later multi-valve engines. Regular oil changes (every 7,500-10,000 km) with a quality 10W-40 or 15W-40 mineral/semi-synthetic oil are critical for timing chain and valve train longevity. The Bosch Mono-Jetronic system is generally reliable but can suffer from idle control valve or temperature sensor faults, causing rough running. Distributor drive gear wear is a known issue; inspect during major services. Ignition components (distributor cap, rotor, HT leads) should be replaced preventatively.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/CC or equivalent 10W-40/15W-40 (Renault Owner's Manual). Modern ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4 oils are suitable upgrades.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all production years (1992-1996) under EU Directive 91/441/EEC.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across applications (Renault Group PT-1995).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS) / EPC: Ref. 77 11 238 888
Renault Service Bulletins: SB 92/07
EU Directive 91/441/EEC
Renault Owner's Manuals (Renault 21)
The Renault F3R 769 was used across Renault's 21 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations or facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Renault TIS). The code "F3R 769" will be clearly visible. Differentiate from the similar F3R 770 (1.8L 12V) by the 8-valve cylinder head and lack of a cam cover with "12V" marking. The distributor is mounted at the rear of the cylinder head. Service parts (e.g., gasket sets) are generally compatible across all F3R 769 applications.
The F3R 769's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage engines. Renault workshop data indicates this is a common repair item, while owner reports frequently cite ignition system wear. Regular servicing and use of correct lubricants make preventative inspection of the distributor and ignition components critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1992-1996) and aggregated workshop repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F3R-769.
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RENAULT Official Site
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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