The Renault F8Q 678 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1996 and 2000. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves. Equipped with indirect injection and a fixed-geometry turbocharger, it delivered approximately 50 kW (68 PS) and 135 Nm of torque, prioritising low-cost ownership and urban drivability.
Fitted primarily to the Clio II (B/CB0/1) and Kangoo I (KC) platforms, the F8Q 678 was engineered for economical, reliable performance in compact vehicles. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through its mechanical injection pump and turbocharging, aligning with Euro 2 standards for light-duty vehicles in force at the time.
A documented service consideration involves the vacuum-operated EGR valve, which can become clogged with carbon deposits, leading to rough idling and increased emissions. Renault service documentation (e.g., Technical Note TN 0678) advises periodic cleaning or replacement. This engine was part of Renault's transition towards more refined diesel offerings before the advent of common rail technology.
Production years 1996–2000 meet Euro 2 standards for light-duty vehicles (EU Directive 96/69/EC).
The Renault F8Q 678 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact hatchbacks and vans (1996-2000). It combines indirect injection with a fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver accessible low-end torque and robust mechanical simplicity. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritises serviceability and cost-effective ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,870 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.0 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 50 kW (68 PS) @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 135 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE rotary injection pump (indirect injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | Mineral 15W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in primary sources |
The SOHC, indirect injection design offers robust, economical performance suitable for city driving but lacks high-RPM refinement. The non-interference timing design is a safety net; a broken belt will not destroy the engine. Critical maintenance involves cleaning the EGR valve (per TN 0678) to prevent rough idling. Using the specified mineral 15W-40 oil is essential. The mechanical Bosch VE pump is generally reliable but sensitive to poor fuel quality and requires clean diesel to prevent internal wear.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral oil 15W-40 specification (Renault Maintenance Manual 77 11 298 765).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1996–2000 F8Q 678 engines (EU Directive 96/69/EC).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output consistent across documented variants (Renault Type Approval).
Renault Technical Information: Notes TN 0678, TN 0701
Renault Maintenance Manual: Ref. 77 11 298 765
Renault Parts Catalogue (EPC): Ref. 7700739821
EU Council Directive 96/69/EC
The Renault F8Q 678 was used across Renault's Clio II and Kangoo I platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-such as different exhaust manifolds or engine mounts-but no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Technical Note TN 0678). The code "F8Q 678" is typically followed by a serial number. Visually, it can be identified by its cast iron block, single camshaft cover, and the presence of a Bosch VE injection pump on the side of the engine. Critical differentiation from the similar F8Q 760: The 678 variant has a lower power output (68 PS vs 75 PS) and was fitted to entry-level models. Service parts like the injection pump calibration or EGR valve may be specific to the 678 variant.
The F8Q 678's primary reliability risk is EGR valve clogging due to carbon deposits, particularly in high-mileage or urban-driven examples. Renault internal service data indicates this is the most frequent cause of drivability complaints for this engine. Extended idling and infrequent oil changes accelerate carbon buildup, making proactive cleaning critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2000) and EU regulatory documentation (1996-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F8Q-678.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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