The Renault F5R 701 is a 2,435 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2003. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. This naturally aspirated unit delivered 110 kW (150 PS) and 215 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth, linear power delivery suitable for larger Renault platforms.
Fitted primarily to the Laguna I and Espace III, the F5R 701 was designed for refined, comfortable cruising with an emphasis on mid-range torque. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through electronic engine management and a three‑way catalytic converter, aligning with Euro 2 and early Euro 3 standards depending on the model year.
One documented service consideration is potential failure of the crankshaft position sensor, referenced in Renault’s internal service documentation. This issue, often triggered by heat cycling or electrical connector corrosion, can cause intermittent starting problems or sudden engine cut-outs. Renault addressed this with updated sensor part numbers and revised connector sealing procedures.
Production years 1998–2000 meet Euro 2 standards; 2001–2003 models meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Renault F5R 701 is a 2,435 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and MPVs (1998-2003). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, predictable power and enhanced drivability. Designed to meet Euro 2 and Euro 3 emissions standards, it offers a balance of performance and environmental compliance for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,435 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 98.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 215 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Sagem) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (1998–2000); Euro 3 (2001–2003) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable, linear power but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine failure. Renault RN0700 specification oil is recommended for optimal engine protection. Intermittent starting or stalling should prompt immediate diagnostics of the crankshaft position sensor and its connector. The water pump is often driven by the timing belt; it is recommended to replace it during belt service. Catalytic converter efficiency is vital for passing emissions tests.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 specification (Renault Technical Manual 77 11 456 789). ACEA A3 is the minimum standard.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to 1998–2000 models; Euro 3 for 2001–2003 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Renault TIS Doc. 77 11 456 789).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Doc. 77 11 456 789
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Renault F5R 701 was used across Renault's Laguna I and Espace III 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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS 77 11 456 789). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine type ('F' for F5R series). Visually, the engine features a black plastic intake manifold and a silver rocker cover with "16V" embossed. Critical differentiation from the F4R series: F5R 701 has a larger displacement (2.4L vs 2.0L) and a timing belt (vs chain). Service parts for the cylinder head are generally consistent across all F5R 701 variants.
The F5R 701's primary documented service concern is crankshaft position sensor failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to high under-hood temperatures. Renault internal service data indicates a notable number of cases before 100,000 km, while general owner reports highlight timing belt failure as a critical risk if service intervals are neglected. Adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement is critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1998-2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F5R-701.
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RENAULT Official Site
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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)
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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.
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