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 compliance for its production run was achieved through multi-point fuel injection and catalytic conversion, meeting Euro 2 standards across all markets.
A documented area for attention is the exhaust manifold, which can develop cracks leading to exhaust leaks. This is referenced in Renault Technical Note MEG‑96‑003. The issue stems from thermal cycling fatigue in the cast iron manifold material. Later production runs incorporated minor casting revisions for improved durability.
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 naturally aspirated design offers smooth, predictable power ideal for relaxed driving but requires adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic failure. Renault RN0700 (10W-40) oil is recommended for optimal engine longevity. The front-mounted timing belt is a critical service item; failure will result in severe engine damage due to its interference design. Exhaust manifold cracking, noted in Renault Technical Note MEG-96-003, is most common around 150,000+ km and manifests as a ticking or blowing exhaust noise. Replacement with a new or revised OEM manifold is the prescribed fix.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 specification (Renault SIB ME-96-001). Mineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40 oils meeting this spec are suitable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies universally to all F7R 700 engines (1996-2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5676).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Peak figures require RON 95 fuel (Renault TIS Doc. F7R-010).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F7R-001, F7R-002, F7R-005, SIB ME-96-001
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5676)
ISO International: 1585 Engine Power Test Code
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.
Locate the full engine code stamped on a flat pad at the rear of the cylinder block, near the gearbox bellhousing (Renault TIS F7R-003). The eighth character of the VIN typically indicates engine displacement ('F' for 2.0L). Visually, the F7R 700 has a black plastic intake manifold and a visible cast iron exhaust manifold on the rear of the cylinder head. Critical differentiation from the F7R 702: The 700 has a lower power output (120-133 PS vs 150 PS) and a different camshaft profile; while many ancillary parts are shared, camshafts and ECUs are not directly interchangeable without reprogramming. Service parts like the exhaust manifold have specific part numbers for the 700 variant.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F7R-700.
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.
