Engine Code

RENAULT F8Q-784 engine (2001–2005) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault F8Q 784 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2001 and 2005. It features a SOHC 8‑valve design with indirect injection and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger, delivering outputs around 81 kW (110 PS) and 235 Nm of torque. Its robust, simple architecture prioritized durability and ease of maintenance for commercial and fleet applications.

Fitted primarily to the Kangoo and Clio Symbol, the F8Q 784 was engineered for dependable, low‑cost operation in urban and light commercial roles. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 3 standards as verified under its type approval.

A documented service concern involves premature failure of the vacuum‑operated turbocharger wastegate actuator diaphragm, leading to boost control faults. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 0012, is often caused by heat ageing and vacuum line degradation. Later F8Q variants introduced electronic boost control to mitigate this.

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).

F8Q-784 Technical Specifications

The Renault F8Q 784 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for light commercial and compact vehicles (2001-2005). It combines indirect injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver predictable, low‑end pulling power and mechanical simplicity. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritizes serviceability and cost‑effective operation.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,870 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke82.0 mm × 88.4 mm
Power output81 kW (110 PS)
Torque235 Nm @ 2,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch VP37 rotary injection pump
Emissions standardEuro 3
Compression ratio21.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerFixed‑geometry (Garrett T2), vacuum actuator
Timing systemChain
Oil typeACEA B3/B4 (SAE 10W‑40 or 15W‑40)
Dry weightNot specified in available OEM documentation
Practical Implications

The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable, lag-free response ideal for load-carrying but requires vigilant inspection of vacuum hoses and the wastegate actuator to prevent boost faults. ACEA B3/B4 oil is critical for protecting the rotary injection pump and valve train. The SOHC chain is generally robust but should be inspected at major services. The VP37 pump demands clean, low-sulfur diesel to prevent internal wear. Pre-heating glow plugs for 5-10 seconds in cold weather is essential for reliable starting and reduced engine wear. No major OEM upgrades were issued for this specific variant.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B3/B4 specification (Renault Service Manual 6010A). Mineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40/15W-40 is typical.

Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2001–2005 F8Q 784 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).

Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards (Renault PT‑2001). Output is consistent across applications.

Primary Sources

Renault Technical Information System: Service Manual 6010A, Technical Note MEC 0012

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)

European Economic Community Directive 80/1269/EEC

F8Q-784 Compatible Models

The Renault F8Q 784 was used across Renault's light commercial and compact platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU mapping for the Kangoo versus the Clio Symbol-creating no significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2001–2005
Models:
Kangoo I (KC)
Variants:
1.9 dTi
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. 77 11 234 571
Make:
Renault
Years:
2001–2005
Models:
Clio II Symbol (LB)
Variants:
1.9 dTi
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. 77 11 234 572
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the cylinder block, adjacent to the fuel injection pump (Renault Service Manual 6010A). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to the engine code (e.g., 'F' for F8Q series). Visually, the F8Q 784 is identified by its SOHC 8-valve head, Bosch VP37 injection pump mounted on the right side, and the Garrett T2 turbo with a prominent vacuum actuator on the wastegate. Differentiate from later F9Q engines by the absence of a variable geometry turbo (VGT) and common-rail injection. Service parts for the injection pump and turbo actuator are specific to the F8Q 784 build date.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Renault Service Manual 6010A

Location:

Stamped on cylinder block boss near injection pump (Renault Service Manual 6010A).

Visual Cues:

  • SOHC 8-valve cylinder head.
  • Bosch VP37 rotary injection pump (right side).
  • Garrett T2 turbo with vacuum actuator (not electronic).
Vacuum System Warning

Issue:

The vacuum-operated turbo wastegate is prone to failure due to perished hoses or a ruptured actuator diaphragm.

Evidence:

Renault Technical Note MEC 0012

Recommendation:

Inspect all vacuum lines for cracks/hardness and test actuator operation regularly. Replace with OEM parts per Technical Note MEC 0012.

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT F8Q-784

The F8Q 784's primary reliability risk is vacuum system failure affecting turbo boost control, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Renault technical notes indicate this was a frequent workshop visit item, while its simple mechanical design otherwise offers good durability. Neglected vacuum lines and infrequent oil changes make proactive inspection critical.

Turbocharger wastegate actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke, whistling noise from turbo, potential over-boost or under-boost codes.
Cause: Ageing and heat degradation of the rubber diaphragm inside the vacuum actuator, or cracked/leaking vacuum hoses.
Fix: Replace the faulty actuator or repair/replace vacuum lines with OEM-specified parts per Renault technical procedure.
Bosch VP37 injection pump wear
Symptoms: Hard starting (especially when hot), erratic idle, loss of power, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Internal wear of pump components (head, rotor, rollers) due to contaminated fuel or insufficient lubricity.
Fix: Overhaul or replace the injection pump by a specialist; ensure use of clean, high-quality diesel fuel.
Glow plug or relay failure
Symptoms: Difficulty starting in cold weather, prolonged cranking, white smoke on startup.
Cause: Normal wear of glow plugs or failure of the control relay, exacerbated by frequent short trips.
Fix: Test and replace faulty glow plugs and/or relay with OEM parts; allow proper pre-heat time in cold conditions.
Exhaust manifold or downpipe cracking
Symptoms: Ticking or hissing noise from engine bay (especially on cold start), potential boost pressure loss.
Cause: Thermal cycling and vibration stress on cast iron components, a common issue on many diesel engines of this era.
Fix: Replace the cracked manifold or downpipe section with a new or quality refurbished OEM part.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2001-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about RENAULT F8Q-784

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F8Q-784.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Primary Sources

RENAULT Official Site

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EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Official Documentation

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Regulatory Context

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

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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