The Renault F4R 713 is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2008. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. Output is rated at 100 kW (136 PS), delivering a refined and responsive character for its mid — size applications.
Fitted to models such as the Mégane II and Scénic II, the F4R 713 was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of performance, ref…
Production years 1998–2008 meet Euro 3 standards as per applicable EU directives for vehicles of that era (VCA UK Type Approval data for reference models).
The Renault F4R 713 is a 1,998 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size hatchbacks and MPVs (1998-2008). It combines a DOHC 16-valve valvetrain with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it represents an evolution of Renault's 2.0L petrol engine family with a focus on refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 82.7 mm × 93.0 mm | |
Power output | 100 kW (136 PS) | |
Torque | 191 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
Oil type | SAE 5W-40 (Semi-Synthetic) | |
Dry weight | 125 kg |
The Renault F4R 713 was used across Renault's Mégane and Scénic platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine was a core 2.0L petrol option for these models, creating clear interchange limits with smaller displacement variants. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The F4R 713's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles where service intervals are neglected. Renault service data indicates a high correlation between skipped belt changes and engine damage. While generally robust, the engine also shares common issues like ignition coil failure and coolant leaks. Adherence to the maintenance schedule is the single most critical factor for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1998-2008) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2003-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The F4R 713 is generally reliable if its critical maintenance, especially the 90,000 km timing belt change, is strictly followed. Neglecting this can lead to total engine failure. With proper care, including regular oil changes and coolant flushes, these engines can easily surpass 200,000 km. Its 16-valve design offers good refinement for its era.
The most critical issue is timing belt failure. Other common problems include ignition coil failure causing misfires, coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing or water pump, and camshaft position sensor failure leading to starting or running issues.
The F4R 713 was primarily used in the second-generation Renault Mégane (2002-2008) and the second-generation Renault Scénic MPV (2003-2008) as their standard 2.0L petrol engine across various trim levels.
Minor gains are possible via ECU remapping or installing a performance air filter and exhaust, but significant power increases are limited by the engine's naturally aspirated design. Most tuning focuses on improving throttle response rather than large power gains.
Fuel economy is reasonable. Expect around 9.5–10.5 L/100km (30–27 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a Mégane II or Scénic II. Highway driving can yield 7.0–8.0 L/100km (40–35 mpg UK), depending on condition and driving style.
Yes. The F4R 713 is an interference engine. If the timing belt breaks or slips, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing severe and expensive internal damage. This makes the timing belt replacement interval absolutely critical.
Renault recommends a good quality SAE 5W-40 semi-synthetic oil. Modern ACEA A3/B3 specification oils are also suitable. Regular oil changes (every 10,000 km or annually) are essential for engine longevity, particularly to protect the DOHC valvetrain.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with RENAULT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
RENAULT Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.