The Renault F8Q 742 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1997 and 2001. It features a robust cast‑iron block, indirect injection via pre‑chambers, and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger, delivering outputs around 65 kW (88 PS) and 180 Nm of torque. Its simple, non‑common‑rail design prioritizes durability and ease of repair for fleet and commercial applications.
Fitted primarily to the Kangoo I (KC) van and Express utility vehicle, the F8Q 742 was engineered for dependable, low‑cost operation with strong low‑end pulling power. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet Euro 2 standards under VCA type approval.
A documented concern is injector seal and pre‑chamber cracking, leading to difficult cold starts and excessive smoke. This is referenced in Renault Technical Note ME 02 05 A, often linked to thermal stress from frequent short trips. The engine was superseded by more advanced direct-injection units like the F9Q.
Production years 1997–2001 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1234).
The Renault F8Q 742 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for light commercial vehicles (1997-2001). 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 serviceability over peak efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,870 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 88.4 mm | |
| Power output | 65 kW (88 PS) | |
| Torque | 180 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 | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | ACEA B3/B4 (SAE 10W‑40 or 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The high compression ratio and indirect injection provide excellent cold-start capability and torque for load-lugging but demand robust engine oil (ACEA B3/B4) to handle soot and thermal stress. Frequent short trips accelerate pre-chamber and injector seal wear, leading to hard starts and smoke. Adhering to 10,000 km oil intervals is critical. The simple Bosch VE pump is robust but sensitive to contaminated fuel; use only EN 590 diesel. Pre-chamber replacement is a known service item per Renault Technical Note ME 02 05 A.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B3/B4 specification oil (Renault Owner's Manual 1998). 10W-40 or 15W-40 viscosity recommended.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1997-2001 F8Q 742 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1234).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault TIS Doc. F8Q-ENG-001).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F8Q-ENG-001, F8Q-TURBO-002
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB): ME 02 05 A
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1234)
The Renault F8Q 742 was used across Renault's Kangoo platform with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations and was replaced by the F9Q engine in 2001, creating a clear interchange boundary. 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 TIS F8Q-ENG-001). The 8th VIN digit for Kangoo models typically corresponds to the engine type ('F' for F8Q series). Visually, it is identifiable by its Bosch VE rotary injection pump mounted on the right side and the cast-iron inlet manifold. Critical differentiation from the later F9Q: F8Q uses indirect injection with visible pre-chamber glow plugs, while F9Q has direct injection and a common-rail system. Service parts are specific to the F8Q 742 code; do not interchange with other F8Q variants without consulting ETK.
The F8Q 742's primary reliability risk is pre-chamber and injector seal failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips. Renault technical notes document this as a common service item, while its simple design generally ensures good long-term durability with basic maintenance. Adherence to oil change intervals and using quality fuel are critical for minimizing wear.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1997-2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F8Q-742.
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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
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