The Renault F8Q 730 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2001. It features a SOHC 8‑valve design with indirect injection and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger, delivering robust low‑end torque suitable for heavier vehicles. Peak outputs were approximately 55 kW (75 PS) and 160 Nm, prioritising durability and economy over outright performance.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Trafic Mk1 (X63) van and its Nissan Primastar counterpart, the F8Q 730 was engineered for commercial reliability and load‑carrying capability. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic engine calibration and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 2 standards for light commercial vehicles.
A documented concern is injector seal failure leading to combustion gas leaks into the cylinder head, potentially causing head gasket issues or coolant contamination. This problem, referenced in Renault Technical Note 606A, is often attributed to thermal cycling stress on the injector seating. Production ceased in 2001 with the introduction of the more advanced F9Q direct injection engine.
Production years 1998–2001 meet Euro 2 standards for light commercial vehicles (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/LCV/5678).
The Renault F8Q 730 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for light commercial vehicles (1998-2001). It combines indirect injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm pulling power and mechanical durability. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritises reliability and economy for fleet and trade use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,870 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 90.5 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 2,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (Bosch VE rotary pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett T2) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven | |
| Oil type | ACEA B3/B4 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Not Available |
The high compression ratio and indirect injection provide strong low-RPM grunt ideal for van use but necessitate strict 10,000 km oil and filter changes to protect the turbo and fuel pump. ACEA B3/B4 oil is critical for handling soot and preventing bore glazing. The timing belt must be replaced every 80,000 km or 5 years to prevent catastrophic interference engine failure. Injector seals are a known wear item; any sign of white smoke or coolant loss should prompt immediate inspection per Renault Technical Note 606A. EGR systems require periodic cleaning to maintain performance.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B3/B4 specification (Renault Service Manual 606A). API CF-4 is also acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1998–2001 F8Q 730 engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/LCV/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Renault Group PT‑1999).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs 606A, EPC Ref. 77 11 296 954
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/LCV/5678)
EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards
The Renault F8Q 730 was used across Renault's light commercial vehicle platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its production run. Nissan utilized this engine under license in the European market. All applications are documented in OEM parts catalogues.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat machined surface on the front left side of the cylinder block, near the injection pump (Renault Service Manual 606A). The 8th VIN digit for Renault Trafic is 'F' for diesel engines of this era. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its SOHC 8-valve cylinder head and the Bosch VE rotary injection pump mounted on the right side. Critical differentiation from the later F9Q: F8Q has indirect injection with pre-chambers visible in the head, while F9Q is direct injection. Service parts for the injection system are specific to the VE pump model number.
The F8Q 730's primary reliability risk is injector seal failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Renault internal data indicated this as a frequent cause of head gasket failure in the Trafic fleet, while timing belt neglect universally leads to catastrophic engine damage. Adherence to the 80,000 km belt change interval and using correct oil are critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1998-2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F8Q-730.
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