The Renault F7R 700 is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2002. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and a naturally aspirated configuration for linear power delivery. This setup provides predictable throttle response suitable for confident daily driving.
Fitted primarily to the MkII Megane and Scenic, the F7R 700 was engineered for balanced performance and reliability in compact family vehicles. Emissions co…
Production years 1996–2002 meet Euro 2 standards across all applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5676).
The Renault F7R 700 is a 1,998 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact family hatchbacks and MPVs (1996-2002). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and dependable everyday usability. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes reliability and cost-effective ownership.
| 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 | 88–98 kW (120–133 PS) | |
Torque | 165–175 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Belt-driven (front-mounted) | |
Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 135 kg |
The Renault F7R 700 was used across Renault's Megane II and Scenic II platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU calibrations for differing trim levels and shared its core architecture with the higher-output F7R 702 variant, creating parts commonality. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The F7R 700's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to neglected replacement intervals, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles or those with undocumented service history. Renault internal service data indicates this is the most common cause of catastrophic engine failure for this engine. Exhaust manifold cracking is a secondary, high-mileage concern. Adherence to the 60,000 km belt replacement schedule and using the correct RN0700 specification oil are critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2002) and aggregated European owner association failure reports (1998-2010). 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
Yes, it can be very reliable, provided one critical maintenance item is never neglected: the timing belt. It must be replaced every 60,000 km or 4 years. Failure results in total engine destruction. With the belt maintained and regular oil changes using RN0700 spec oil, the F7R 700 is a robust and durable engine.
The most critical issue is timing belt failure due to missed replacement intervals. Other common problems include cracked exhaust manifolds (causing noise/leaks), failing coolant temperature sensors (causing erratic running), and worn distributor caps/rotors (causing misfires). These are well-documented in Renault service information.
The F7R 700 was primarily used in the second-generation (MkII) Renault Megane (1996-2002) and the first-generation Renault Scenic (1997-2003) in various 2.0-litre trim levels like RT, RXE, Expression, and Dynamique.
Modest gains are possible. Simple ECU remaps or performance chips can yield 5-10 kW. More significant power increases require camshaft upgrades, exhaust modifications, and potentially head work. Reliability remains good if the timing belt is maintained, but tuning adds stress to an older engine design.
Official combined figures are around ~8.5 L/100km. Real-world consumption typically ranges from 9.0-11.0 L/100km (26-31 mpg UK) in mixed driving, depending on the model, driving style, and vehicle condition. It's not a particularly fuel-efficient engine by modern standards.
Yes, absolutely. This is its most critical characteristic. If the timing belt breaks or jumps teeth, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing severe internal damage that requires a complete engine rebuild or replacement. This makes the 60,000 km belt change interval non-negotiable.
Renault recommends oil meeting the RN0700 specification, typically a 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic. While not as critical as for newer engines, using the correct oil helps maintain engine cleanliness and longevity. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 1 year.
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.