The Renault F9Q 790 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2001 and 2010. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. This engine uses a common rail direct injection system and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to deliver strong low-end torque and efficient cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Mégane II (B/C87), Scénic II (JZ0/1), and Laguna II (B90) - including the popular 1.9 dCi variants - the F9Q 790 was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of fuel economy, pulling power, and motorway refinement. Emissions compliance was met through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF) on later models, achieving Euro 4 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, which can lead to a complete loss of power. This issue, highlighted in Renault Service Bulletin MEC 0035, is often linked to fuel contamination or the use of incorrect fuel additives. In 2006, Renault introduced minor revisions to the pump design to improve durability.
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2010 models meet Euro 4 standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 - Historical Context).
The Renault F9Q 790 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2001-2010). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,870 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.0 mm × 93.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85–100 kW (115–136 PS) | |
| Torque | 260–300 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens VDO common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (2001–2005); Euro 4 (2006–2010) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | ACEA B4 / Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and injector wear. ACEA B4 / RN0700 (5W-40) oil is critical due to its specific formulation for high-pressure diesel systems. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce soot buildup. The Siemens VDO fuel pump demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards to prevent premature failure. Post-2006 models feature a revised pump design; pre-2006 units are more susceptible to failure per Renault SIB MEC 0035. EGR/DPF systems require periodic cleaning to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA B4 / Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault Service Manual B87). This is mandatory for fuel system and turbo longevity.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 2001-2005 models; Euro 4 applies to 2006-2010 models (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 - Historical Context).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 100 kW output requires EU3+ fuel quality (Renault Group PT-2008).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TB-02-11, Service Manual B87
Renault EPC Catalogue
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Historical Context)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault F9Q 790 was used across Renault's B/C87, JZ0/1, and B90 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-primarily different engine mounts and exhaust manifolds for the Mégane II and Scénic II. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Renault TIS Doc. B87-01). The full code "F9Q 790" should be clearly visible. Visually, it can be identified by its twin camshaft covers and the Garrett variable geometry turbocharger on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from the similar F9Q 792: The F9Q 790 produces 115-130 PS, while the F9Q 792 produces 150 PS and has a different turbocharger and ECU mapping. Service parts for the fuel system and turbo are generally not interchangeable between these variants.
The F9Q 790's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in engines using contaminated fuel or incorrect additives. Renault workshop data indicates this was a frequent cause of sudden power loss and costly repairs in pre-2006 examples. Extended oil change intervals and poor fuel quality make adherence to the specified 5W-40 oil and genuine diesel fuel critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2001-2010) and historical workshop data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F9Q-790.
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