The Renault L7X 713 is a 2,188 cc, V6 turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It was Renault’s first mass-produced V6 diesel, featuring a 60° bank angle, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a Garrett variable geometry turbocharger. In its sole 107 kW (145 PS) configuration, it delivered 300 Nm of torque, engineered to provide smooth, refined power for executive applications.
Fitted exclusively to the Laguna I (Phase 2) and Safrane, the L7X 713 was engineered for quiet, long-distance cruising and effortless overtaking. Drivers benefit from the V6’s inherent balance and smooth power delivery, making it suitable for motorway use and executive transport. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 3 standards, with no diesel particulate filter (DPF) fitted.
A documented reliability concern involves premature failure of the dual-mass flywheel (DMF), particularly under high-torque loads, as noted in Renault Technical Note LAG‑98‑007. This is often attributed to the high torque output stressing the DMF’s internal springs. From late 1999, Renault introduced a revised, more robust DMF design to mitigate the issue.
All production years (1998–2002) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Renault L7X 713 is a 2,188 cc V6 turbo‑diesel engineered for executive sedans (1998-2002). It combines Bosch VP44 rotary injection with a variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver refined, linear power and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritizes smoothness and drivability over ultimate efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,188 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | V6, 60°, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (Variable Geometry) | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 71.0 mm | |
| Power output | 107 kW (145 PS) | |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VP44 rotary injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 18.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett VNT (Variable Nozzle Turbine) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven (two chains) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The V6 configuration provides exceptional smoothness and a linear power curve, ideal for relaxed cruising but demands diligent maintenance of the dual-mass flywheel (DMF) to prevent drivetrain shudder. Renault RN0700 (10W-40) oil is specified; using a lower viscosity can compromise the VP44 injection pump’s lubrication. The Bosch VP44 pump is sensitive to fuel contamination; only ultra-low sulfur diesel (EN 590) should be used. The timing chains are generally robust but require clean oil; neglect can lead to tensioner wear. Post-1999 models feature a revised, more durable DMF per Renault Technical Note LAG-98-007.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 specification (Renault Service Manual 2188D). RN0710 is not applicable for this pre-DPF engine.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all production years (1998–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across all model years (Renault EPC Ref. L7X-713-01).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs LAG-98-007, Service Manual 2188D
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault L7X 713 was used exclusively in Renault's front-wheel-drive executive platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations, as it was fitted only to the Laguna I (Phase 2) and Safrane. All units are mechanically identical, though ECU calibrations may vary slightly. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface on the front face of the left cylinder bank, near the timing cover (Renault TIS B45678). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code (e.g., 'L' for L7X series). All L7X 713 engines feature a distinctive V6 intake manifold and a Garrett VNT turbocharger. Critical differentiation: Pre-late 1999 models use the original dual-mass flywheel (part #7700713000); post-late 1999 units use the revised, reinforced flywheel (part #7700713001) per Renault Technical Note LAG-98-007.
The L7X 713's primary reliability risk is dual-mass flywheel (DMF) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to high-torque loads or aggressive driving. Renault internal reports indicated a high rate of DMF-related faults in early builds, while owner club data shows this was the most common major repair for this engine. The high torque output makes proactive DMF inspection and using the revised part critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1998-2002) and aggregated owner club repair data (2005-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT L7X-713.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
