The Renault F8Q 648 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1996 and 2001. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves. This engine prioritised mechanical simplicity and fuel economy, delivering outputs around 47 kW (64 PS) and 120 Nm of torque for dependable, low-cost operation.
Fitted to models such as the Clio II (B/C57U) and Kangoo (KC0/1), the F8Q 648 was engineered for economical urban and light commercial use. Its robust, low-stressed design offered excellent fuel efficiency and minimal running costs. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through indirect injection and a basic oxidation catalyst, meeting Euro 2 standards as mandated by EU Directive 94/12/EC.
One documented characteristic is the engine's susceptibility to cylinder head cracking under severe overheating conditions. This potential failure mode, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 003, is typically a consequence of neglected cooling system maintenance rather than an inherent design flaw. The engine design remained unchanged throughout its production run.
Production years 1996–2001 meet Euro 2 standards as per EU Directive 94/12/EC (VCA UK Type Approval applicable for UK-market vehicles).
The Renault F8Q 648 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engineered for compact hatchbacks and light vans (1996-2001). It combines indirect injection with a simple SOHC valvetrain to deliver robust fuel economy and low running costs. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritised serviceability and mechanical durability over performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,870 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 88.4 mm | |
| Power output | 47 kW (64 PS) @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 120 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (Bosch VE rotary pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral or Semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in primary sources |
The SOHC 8-valve design offers exceptional mechanical simplicity and ease of repair. The lack of a turbocharger enhances reliability but limits performance. The primary critical maintenance item is the cooling system; neglect leading to overheating can cause cylinder head cracking (Renault Technical Note MEC 003). The timing chain is durable but should be inspected for wear during major services. Using the specified 10W-40 oil is essential for engine longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Renault Owner's Manual). Modern ACEA B3/B4 oils are suitable replacements.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all production years (1996–2001) under EU Directive 94/12/EC.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across documented variants (Renault Type Approval).
Renault Workshop Manual 1373A
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Ref. 77 11 345 648
Renault Owner's Manual (Clio II, Kangoo)
EU Directive 94/12/EC (Emissions)
Renault Technical Note MEC 003 (Cylinder Head)
The Renault F8Q 648 was used across Renault's Clio II and Kangoo platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and ancillary brackets-and no significant facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Workshop Manual 1373A). The full code will read "F8Q 648". Visually, it can be identified by its cast iron block, black rocker cover, and the complete absence of a turbocharger or associated plumbing. Differentiation from the turbocharged F8Q 678 is immediate by the lack of a turbo. Engine mounts differ slightly between Clio and Kangoo applications.
The F8Q 648's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking, exclusively linked to severe overheating incidents caused by cooling system neglect. Renault Technical Note MEC 003 details this failure mode, while general owner reports frequently cite glow plug or injection pump wear as common drivability issues. The engine's simplicity makes adherence to basic cooling system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2001) and general owner-reported failure patterns. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F8Q-648.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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