The Renault F8Q 732 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 for utility and light commercial use. Peak output is rated at 50 kW (68 PS) and 132 Nm, prioritizing durability and fuel economy over high performance.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Kangoo, the F8Q 732 was engineered for cost‑effective, reliable transportation in urban and light‑duty scenarios. Its driving character emphasizes low‑rpm pulling power and mechanical simplicity. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), aligning with Euro 2 standards.
A documented service concern is premature failure of the vacuum‑operated turbocharger wastegate actuator diaphragm, leading to boost control issues. This is referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 02‑05. The failure is often caused by heat degradation and vacuum leaks. Later F‑series engines moved to more robust electronic control systems.

Production years 1998–2001 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Renault F8Q 732 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for light commercial applications (1998-2001). It combines indirect injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm pulling power and mechanical simplicity. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes durability and economy over peak performance.
| 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 | 132 Nm @ 2,500 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 | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | ACEA B3/B4 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The high compression ratio and indirect injection provide excellent cold-start reliability and fuel tolerance but generate more noise than modern designs. ACEA B3/B4 10W-40 oil is critical for protecting the older SOHC valvetrain and turbo bearings. The vacuum-operated wastegate is prone to diaphragm failure; inspect vacuum hoses regularly per Renault Technical Note MEC 02-05. The Bosch VE pump is robust but sensitive to contaminated fuel; use only clean, low-sulfur diesel. Pre-heating glow plugs are essential for winter starts.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B3/B4 specification (Renault Service Manual Vol. 3). Supersedes basic API CC/CD requirements.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1998-2001 production (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault Group PT-1999).
Renault Technical Information System: Notes MEC 01-03, MEC 02-05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards
The Renault F8Q 732 was used across Renault's light commercial platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-simplified cooling for the Kangoo-creating minor service part variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, near the injection pump (Renault Service Manual Vol. 3). The 8th VIN digit for F8Q-powered vehicles is typically 'F'. The engine is visually identified by its SOHC 8-valve rocker cover and the Bosch VE injection pump mounted longitudinally on the right side. Critical differentiation from later F9Q engines: F8Q has a mechanical cable throttle and vacuum-operated wastegate, while F9Q uses electronic throttle and actuator. Service parts like gaskets and manifolds are generally interchangeable within the F8Q 732 production run but differ from F8Q 636/638/640 variants.
The F8Q 732's primary reliability risk is vacuum system degradation affecting the turbocharger, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Renault internal service data indicates a high correlation between boost faults and aged vacuum hoses, while glow plug circuit failures are common in cold climates. Extended idling and short trips accelerate carbon buildup, making regular system checks critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1998-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F8Q-732.
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