The Renault F9Q 731 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2002 and 2006. It features a SOHC 8‑valve design with direct common-rail injection and a fixed-geometry turbocharger, delivering improved efficiency over its indirect-injection predecessor. Peak outputs were approximately 66 kW (90 PS) and 200 Nm, balancing economy with adequate performance for light commercial use.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Trafic Mk1 (X63) van and Scénic II, the F9Q 731 was engineered for reliability and low running costs in fleet applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through common-rail precision and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 3 standards for light commercial and passenger vehicles.
A documented concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump drive coupling, referenced in Renault Technical Note 606C. This issue, often caused by inadequate lubrication or fuel contamination, can lead to sudden engine shutdown. In 2004, Renault introduced a revised coupling design to improve durability.
Production years 2002–2006 meet Euro 3 standards for light vehicles (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/LCV/5680).
The Renault F9Q 731 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for light commercial and passenger vehicles (2002-2006). It combines direct common-rail injection with a fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver adequate low‑rpm torque and improved fuel efficiency over indirect injection. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritised cost-effective reliability.
| 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 | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct common-rail injection (Siemens SID802) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett T2) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven | |
| Oil type | ACEA B3/B4 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Not Available |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable, lag-free torque suitable for van use but demands strict 15,000 km oil and filter changes to protect the fuel system and turbo. ACEA B3/B4 5W-40 oil is critical for managing soot and high-pressure injection system wear. The timing belt must be replaced every 100,000 km or 6 years to prevent catastrophic interference engine failure. High-pressure fuel pump couplings are a known wear item; any sign of hard starting or sudden shutdown should prompt inspection per Renault Technical Note 606C. EGR systems require periodic cleaning to maintain performance.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B3/B4 specification (Renault Service Manual 606C). API CI-4 is also acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2002–2006 F9Q 731 engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/LCV/5680).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Renault Group PT‑2004).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs 606C, EPC Ref. 77 11 296 956
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/LCV/5680)
EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards
The Renault F9Q 731 was used across Renault's passenger and light commercial platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its production run. 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 606C). The 8th VIN digit for Renault passenger cars is 'F' for this engine family. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its SOHC 8-valve cylinder head and the Siemens SID802 ECU mounted near the battery. Critical differentiation from the F8Q: F9Q has direct injection with no pre-chambers, while F8Q is indirect injection. Service parts for the fuel pump coupling are specific to model year.
The F9Q 731's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump drive coupling failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel or infrequent oil changes. Renault internal data indicated this as a frequent cause of roadside breakdowns in the Trafic fleet, while timing belt neglect universally leads to catastrophic engine damage. Adherence to the 100,000 km belt change interval and using correct oil are critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2002-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2007-2017). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F9Q-731.
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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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