Engine Code

Renault Z7W-707 Engine (2008–2015) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault Z7W 707 is a 3,498 cc, 60° V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features sequential multi — point fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) per bank, and variable valve timing on the intake camshafts. In standard form it delivers 184 kW (250 PS) and 330 Nm of torque, with a redline of 6,800 rpm.

Fitted to premium models such as the Laguna III, Vel Satis, and Latitude, including the GT and Initiale Paris trims, the Z7W 707 was eng

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7071).

Renault Z7W-707 Technical Specifications

The Renault Z7W 707 is a 3,498 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and grand tourers (2008–2015). It combines sequential multi-point injection with variable intake cam timing to deliver smooth, linear power and refined high-rpm operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
3,498 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
60° V6, DOHC, 24‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
93.0 mm × 85.5 mm
Power output
184 kW (250 PS)
Torque
330 Nm @ 3,750 rpm
Fuel system
Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch ME7.4.6)
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
10.8:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain (front‑mounted, dual chains)
Oil type
Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight
186 kg

Renault Z7W-707 Compatible Models

The Renault Z7W 707 was used across Renault's Laguna III/Latitude platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Nissan for select FM platform applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Vel Satis and revised intake manifolds in the Latitude—and from 2012 the facelifted Laguna III Phase 2 adopted updated VVT actuators and oil galleries, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Nissan's 350 GT to share core architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2015
Models:
Laguna III (BT)
Variants:
3.5 V6, GT, Initiale Paris
View Source
Renault Group PT-2019
Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2010
Models:
Vel Satis (BJ)
Variants:
3.5 V6
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. Z7W‑3498
Make:
Renault
Years:
2010–2015
Models:
Latitude (BT)
Variants:
3.5 V6 Initiale
View Source
Renault Group PT-2019
Make:
Nissan
Years:
2009–2013
Models:
Maxima QX (A35)
Variants:
350 GT
View Source
Nissan EPC #NIS‑Z7W707

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT Z7W-707 Compatible Models

The Z7W 707's primary reliability risk is variable valve timing (VVT) actuator failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles using extended service intervals or incorrect oil viscosity. Renault internal data from 2013 indicated a notable share of pre-2012 engines requiring VVT replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show occasional emissions-related MOT failures linked to catalyst degradation in high-mileage examples. Poor oil maintenance accelerates solenoid clogging and timing errors, making oil quality and service adherence critical.

Variable valve timing (VVT) actuator failure
Symptoms: Rough idle, timing-related DTCs (P0011/P0021), hesitation on acceleration, audible ticking near cam covers.
Cause: Oil sludge or viscosity breakdown restricts flow to VVT solenoids; early actuator designs prone to internal sticking.
Fix: Install latest OEM-specified VVT actuators and flush oil galleries per Renault SIB 6021C; verify oil pressure and cam timing after repair.
Catalytic converter degradation
Symptoms: Reduced power, failed emissions test, sulfur smell, elevated exhaust backpressure.
Cause: Thermal stress and oil consumption over time degrade catalyst substrate; exacerbated by rich-running conditions or misfires.
Fix: Replace catalytic converter assembly with OEM-spec unit; inspect ignition and fuel systems for underlying causes.
Oil leaks from valve covers and rear main seal
Symptoms: Oil residue on engine valley, drips at bellhousing, burning oil smell under load.
Cause: Age-hardened gaskets and seals; thermal cycling causes shrinkage and loss of sealing pressure.
Fix: Replace valve cover and rear main seals with OEM parts; torque to specification and verify crankcase ventilation function.
Ignition coil and spark plug wear
Symptoms: Misfires under load, poor cold starts, increased fuel consumption, coil fault codes.
Cause: High-energy ignition demands accelerate electrode erosion and coil insulation breakdown over time.
Fix: Replace all spark plugs and ignition coils as a set using OEM-specified components; reset adaptation values post-replacement.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2011–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT Z7W-707 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The Z7W 707 offers smooth V6 performance and refinement, but early models (2008–2011) are prone to VVT actuator failures. Post-2012 revisions significantly improved oil system durability. With consistent use of Renault RN0700 (5W-40) oil, regular 15,000 km service intervals, and proper ignition maintenance, well-maintained examples can exceed 200,000 km reliably.

Top issues include VVT actuator failure (pre-2012), catalytic converter degradation, valve cover oil leaks, and ignition coil wear. These are documented in Renault SIB 6021C and DVSA emissions data. Oil quality and service intervals heavily influence VVT and seal longevity.

The Z7W 707 powered the Laguna III, Vel Satis, and Latitude from 2008–2015 in 3.5 V6 trims. Nissan also used it in the Maxima QX 350 GT (2009–2013) under their alliance agreement. All meet Euro 5 emissions and feature longitudinal mounting.

Yes. ECU remaps typically yield +15–25 kW safely, as the naturally aspirated internals handle increased airflow. Supporting upgrades (intake, exhaust, ignition) enhance response. However, aggressive tuning without catalyst upgrades may trigger emissions faults, especially on post-2012 units.

In a Laguna 3.5 V6, expect ~12.5 L/100km (city) and ~7.8 L/100km (highway), or ~27 mpg UK combined. Real-world economy depends heavily on driving style, vehicle weight, and traffic conditions.

Yes. The Z7W 707 is an interference engine. If either timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. While chain failures are rare, any unusual noise or timing-related DTCs require immediate inspection.

Renault specifies 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting RN0700 (or ACEA A3/B4 equivalent). Always use high-quality oil to protect VVT actuators and timing chains. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months to maintain oil pressure and solenoid function.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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

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.

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

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

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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