The Renault F4R 886 is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2008. It features an aluminium alloy block and head, with a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. This naturally aspirated unit was designed for performance-oriented compact and mid-size vehicles, offering a balance of power and refinement.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Mégane I/II (B/C57, B/C87) and Laguna II (B90), the F4R 886 was engineered for drivers seeking spirited performance and responsive handling. It offered strong power for its class, focusing on drivability and a sporty character. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through multi-point fuel injection and catalytic converters, achieving Euro 3 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in high-mileage examples. This issue, noted in Renault Service Bulletin MEC 0021, is often linked to infrequent oil changes or the use of incorrect oil viscosity. The design was eventually superseded by the more modern F4Rt turbocharged variant and the Nissan-sourced MR engine series.
Production years 1996–2008 meet Euro 3 emissions standards across all markets (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 - Historical Context).
The Renault F4R 886 is a 1,998 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for sporty compact and mid-size applications (1996-2008). It combines a lightweight aluminium construction with a DOHC, 16-valve design to deliver responsive performance and a broad torque curve. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritizes driving dynamics while maintaining acceptable fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103–105 kW (140–143 PS) | |
| Torque | 191–194 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40 (Semi-Synthetic or Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The DOHC, 16-valve design provides strong, linear power delivery ideal for spirited driving but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt changes to prevent catastrophic failure. The interference design means belt failure causes severe engine damage. Exhaust camshaft lobe wear is a known issue and can be mitigated with high-quality 5W-40 oil and frequent changes. The engine's performance character makes it rewarding to drive but demands more attentive maintenance than base models.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-40 semi-synthetic or synthetic oil specification (Renault Service Manual B90). This viscosity is critical for protecting the DOHC valvetrain, particularly the exhaust camshaft.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all production years (1996-2008) (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 - Historical Context).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across documented variants (Renault Group PT-2005).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TB-97-08, Service Manual B90
Renault EPC Catalogue
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Historical Context)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault F4R 886 was used across Renault's B/C57, B/C87, and B90 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-primarily different engine mounts and intake manifolds for the Mégane and Laguna. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS Doc. B90-01). The full code "F4R 886" should be clearly visible. Visually, it can be identified by its twin camshaft covers and multi-point fuel injection system. Critical differentiation from the similar F4R 770: The F4R 886 has a higher compression ratio (10.0:1 vs 9.8:1) and produces 140-143 PS, while the F4R 770 produces 136 PS. Service parts for the cylinder head and valvetrain are generally interchangeable, but camshafts and ECUs are specific to the 886 variant.
The F4R 886's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to neglected service intervals. Renault workshop data indicates this was a frequent cause of total engine loss. The interference design means any belt failure results in severe internal damage, making adherence to the 60,000 km replacement schedule absolutely critical. Secondary risk is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, linked to oil quality and change frequency.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2008) and historical workshop data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F4R886.
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.
