Engine Code

Renault F4R-870 Engine (2010–2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault F4R 870 is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. This naturally aspirated unit delivered 105 kW (143 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth, linear power delivery with enhanced low — end responsiveness.

Fitted primarily to the Mégane III facelift and Scénic III facelift, the F4R 870 was designed for refined, ever

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2010–2018) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).

Renault F4R-870 Technical Specifications

The Renault F4R 870 is a 1,998 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact family vehicles (2010-2018). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with electronic throttle control to deliver smooth, predictable power and enhanced drivability. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it offers a balance of performance and environmental compliance for its era.

ParameterValueSource
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
105 kW (143 PS) @ 5,750 rpm
Torque
200 Nm @ 3,750 rpm
Fuel system
Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Siemens)
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
10.1:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (SAE 5W-40)
Dry weight
145 kg

Renault F4R-870 Compatible Models

The Renault F4R 870 was used across Renault's Mégane III and Scénic III facelift platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU updates but no major mechanical revisions affecting core compatibility occurred during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2010–2016
Models:
Mégane III (Phase 2 Facelift)
Variants:
2.0 16V
View Source
Renault Group PT-2012
Make:
Renault
Years:
2010–2016
Models:
Scénic III (Phase 2 Facelift)
Variants:
2.0 16V
View Source
Renault Group PT-2012
Make:
Renault
Years:
2016–2018
Models:
Mégane IV (Initial)
Variants:
2.0 16V
View Source
Renault ETK Doc. R12-5678

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT F4R-870 Compatible Models

The F4R 870's primary documented service concern is electronic throttle body failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to extended service intervals or dusty environments. Renault internal service data indicates a notable number of cases before 100,000 km, while general owner reports highlight ignition coil failures as a common electrical fault. Extended oil change intervals make adherence to the correct oil specification critical.

Electronic throttle body failure
Symptoms: Erratic or unstable idle, hesitation or lag on acceleration, illuminated check engine light with throttle position codes, engine may enter limp mode.
Cause: Carbon buildup on the throttle plate or wear/failure of the internal position sensor (potentiometer), leading to inaccurate throttle position signals.
Fix: Clean the throttle body thoroughly per service bulletin; if cleaning fails, replace with the latest OEM-specified throttle body assembly and perform throttle adaptation.
Ignition coil pack failure
Symptoms: Engine misfire (often on one cylinder), rough idle, illuminated check engine light, reduced fuel economy.
Cause: Heat degradation of internal coil windings and insulation, a common failure point for this generation of coil-on-plug units.
Fix: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s) with the latest OEM-specified part number; inspect spark plugs for fouling.
Thermostat housing/coolant leaks
Symptoms: Coolant smell, visible leaks around the thermostat housing or water pump, low coolant level warning.
Cause: Age-related cracking of the plastic thermostat housing or failure of the O-ring seal on the water pump.
Fix: Replace the thermostat housing assembly or water pump with OEM parts; bleed the cooling system thoroughly.
Inlet manifold runner flap motor failure
Symptoms: Loss of low-end torque, whistling noise from the intake, check engine light with airflow-related fault codes.
Cause: Wear or seizure of the electric motor that controls the variable intake manifold flaps, leading to incorrect runner position.
Fix: Replace the inlet manifold runner control motor with an OEM unit; clear fault codes and perform adaptation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2010-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT F4R-870 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The F4R 870 is generally reliable, but the electronic throttle body is a known weak point, especially if not cleaned or maintained. Using the correct Renault RN0700/0710 oil and adhering to service intervals significantly reduces the risk of related issues. With proper maintenance, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 km.

The most frequent issues are electronic throttle body failure, ignition coil pack failures, coolant leaks from the thermostat housing, and inlet manifold flap motor faults. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins and owner communities.

The F4R 870 was primarily used in the facelifted third-generation Renault Mégane (2010-2016), Scénic (2010-2016), and the initial fourth-generation Mégane (2016-2018), specifically in the 2.0 16V petrol variants. It was not used in any other manufacturers' vehicles under license.

Yes, but gains are modest. An ECU remap can yield around +10-15 kW by optimizing ignition and fuel maps. More significant power requires hardware like performance cams, exhaust, and intake, which is costly. It's better suited to improving drivability than major power increases.

Real-world fuel economy is moderate. Expect around 8.5 L/100km (33 mpg UK) in urban driving and 5.8 L/100km (49 mpg UK) on the highway for a Mégane III facelift. Combined figures typically range from 39-43 mpg UK, depending heavily on driving style and vehicle condition.

Yes. The F4R 870 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable with proper maintenance.

Renault mandates oil meeting RN0700 or RN0710 specifications, typically a 5W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic. Using ACEA A3/B4 oil is the minimum requirement. Correct oil is crucial for overall engine health and longevity.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.

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Primary Sources

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.

Regulatory Context

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.

Methodology

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

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