Engine Code

RENAULT G8T-794 engine (1999–2006) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault G8T 794 is a 2,188 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1999 and 2006. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium cylinder head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger. Output is rated at 85 kW (115 PS), with peak torque of 270 Nm, engineered for robust low-end pulling power in commercial and passenger vehicles.

Fitted to models like the Master II, Trafic II, and Laguna II, the G8T 794 was designed for durability and load-carrying capability. Emissions compliance for most variants was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 3 standards throughout its production.

A documented concern involves premature failure of the dual-mass flywheel, which can cause drivetrain vibration and noise, as noted in Renault Service Information Bulletin 7201B. This is often linked to high torque loads and clutch wear. Renault addressed this in later production runs with a revised flywheel design and updated clutch assembly.

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1999–2006 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).

G8T-794 Technical Specifications

The Renault G8T 794 is a 2,188 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for light commercial and large MPVs (1999-2006). It combines indirect injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑end torque and mechanical durability. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritizes reliability and serviceability over refinement.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,188 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 8‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke86.0 mm × 94.4 mm
Power output85 kW (115 PS)
Torque270 Nm @ 2,000 rpm
Fuel systemIndirect injection, Bosch VP44 rotary pump
Emissions standardEuro 3
Compression ratio18.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerFixed-geometry turbo (Garrett)
Timing systemBelt-driven
Oil typeRenault RN0700 (SAE 10W‑40)
Dry weight165 kg
Practical Implications

The fixed-geometry turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for load-carrying but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using RN0700 specification to prevent injector and pump wear. Fuel quality meeting EN 590 standards is critical due to the VP44 pump's sensitivity. The dual-mass flywheel is prone to failure under heavy loads; regular inspection is advised. Post-2003 models feature a revised flywheel; earlier units should follow the replacement protocol per Renault SIB 7201B.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (10W-40) specification (Renault SIB 7201B). Compatible with ACEA B3/B4.

Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all documented G8T 794 applications (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 85 kW output requires EN 590 fuel quality (Renault TIS Doc. G8T-003).

Primary Sources

Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G8T-001, G8T-002, G8T-003, SIB 7201B

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

G8T-794 Compatible Models

The Renault G8T 794 was used across Renault's Master II/Trafic II platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Master for commercial use-and from 2003 received a minor update with a revised dual-mass flywheel, creating subtle service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2003–2006
Models:
Master II (Phase 1)
Variants:
dCi 115
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2001–2006
Models:
Trafic II (Phase 1)
Variants:
dCi 115
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2001–2005
Models:
Laguna II (Phase 1)
Variants:
dCi 115
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. G8T-004
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, near the injection pump (Renault TIS G8T-005). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('8' for 2.2L dCi family). Pre-2003 engines have a dual-mass flywheel with a black rubber center; post-2003 units feature a flywheel with a grey composite center. Critical differentiation from other G8T variants: The G8T 794 is the 115 PS variant with a specific ECU map and uses a Bosch VP44 injection pump. Service parts, particularly for the drivetrain, require production date verification due to the 2003 flywheel update (Renault SIB 7201B).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Renault TIS Doc. G8T-005

Location:

Stamped on front face of cylinder block, near injection pump (Renault TIS G8T-005).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2003: Dual-mass flywheel with black rubber center
  • Post-2003: Dual-mass flywheel with grey composite center
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Renault SIB 7201B

E C U Calibration:

ECU software is calibrated specifically for the G8T 794 variant and is not interchangeable with other G8T engines without reprogramming.

Flywheel Assembly:

Dual-mass flywheels for pre-2003 G8T 794 engines are not directly compatible with post-2003 units due to material and design revisions per OEM documentation.
Load Advisory

Issue:

The dual-mass flywheel is susceptible to premature failure when subjected to frequent heavy loads or aggressive clutch engagement.

Evidence:

Renault SIB 7201B

Recommendation:

Avoid excessive load-carrying or towing beyond vehicle ratings. Replace flywheel and clutch as a matched set per Renault SIB 7201B if failure is suspected.

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT G8T-794

The G8T 794's primary reliability risk is dual-mass flywheel failure, with elevated incidence in commercially used vehicles. Renault internal reports linked a notable number of failures to pre-2003 builds, while UK DVSA data shows injector pump issues are common in high-mileage examples. Heavy loads and infrequent maintenance increase drivetrain and fuel system stress, making service intervals and load management critical.

Dual-mass flywheel failure
Symptoms: Clutch judder, drivetrain vibration (especially at idle or low RPM), knocking or rattling noise from bellhousing.
Cause: Degradation of the internal damping springs or friction material due to heat, torque stress, and normal wear, particularly under heavy commercial use.
Fix: Replace flywheel and clutch assembly with latest OEM-specified kit per service bulletin 7201B; inspect flywheel housing for damage.
Bosch VP44 injection pump failure
Symptoms: Hard starting, loss of power, engine stalling, erratic idle, fuel in engine oil.
Cause: Internal wear of the rotary pump mechanism or failure of the electronic control unit, often accelerated by poor fuel quality or inadequate lubrication.
Fix: Replace injection pump with remanufactured or new OEM unit; reprogram ECU if required; replace fuel filter and inspect fuel lines.
Turbocharger oil seal failure
Symptoms: Blue exhaust smoke, oil consumption, oil residue in intercooler or intake pipes.
Cause: Wear of the turbocharger's internal oil seals due to age, heat, or insufficient oil changes, allowing oil to enter the intake system.
Fix: Replace turbocharger cartridge or entire turbo unit with OEM part; clean intercooler and intake system; verify oil supply and return lines.
Glow plug or relay failure
Symptoms: Hard starting in cold weather, prolonged glow plug light, misfire on startup.
Cause: Normal wear of glow plugs or failure of the control relay due to age and electrical load cycling, common in high-mileage engines.
Fix: Replace all glow plugs and/or the control relay with OEM parts; clear fault codes and verify pre-heat cycle operation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2000-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about RENAULT G8T-794

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT G8T-794.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

About EngineCode.uk
Independent technical reference for engine identification and verification

Platform Overview

Independent Technical Reference

EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with RENAULT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.

Sourcing Policy

Strict Sourcing Protocol

Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.

No Unverified Sources

No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.

Transparency in Gaps

If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.

Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources & Documentation
Official OEM and government publications used for data verification

Primary Sources

RENAULT Official Site

Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.

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

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Official Documentation

Regulatory Compliance

Regulatory Context & Methodology
Framework and processes ensuring data accuracy and compliance

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

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

Methodology

Data Compilation

All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.

Corrections & Submissions

To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk

Legal, Privacy & Commercial Disclosure
Copyright, data privacy, and funding transparency

Copyright & Legal

Fair Dealing Use

All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.

Copyright Concerns

For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk

Data Privacy

GDPR Compliance

EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.

Data Requests

For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk

Trademarks

Trademark Notice

All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.

Commercial Disclosure

No Paid Endorsements

This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.

Funding Model

Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.

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“ .

All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.