The Renault Z7X 723 is a 2,963 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2003. It features an aluminium block and head, single overhead camshafts (SOHC), and 12 valves. In standard form it delivered 132 kW (180 PS) and 267 Nm of torque, offering smooth power delivery and relaxed highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Laguna I (A56), Espace II (J63), and Avantime (D66), the Z7X 723 was engineered for refinement and torque-focused performance in executive and grand tourer applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential multi‑point fuel injection and a three‑way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 3 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner rails, which can lead to chain slap, noise, and potential timing misalignment. This issue, highlighted in Renault Technical Note 77 13 08 00 P, is often linked to extended oil change intervals or use of non‑specified viscosity grades. From 2001, revised tensioner materials were introduced to improve durability.
All production years (1998–2003) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4127).
The Renault Z7X 723 is a 2,963 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans, MPVs, and coupes (1998–2003). It combines SOHC 12‑valve architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and acoustic refinement. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritizes drivability and low‑end torque over peak efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,963 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 83.0 mm | |
| Power output | 132 kW (180 PS) | |
| Torque | 267 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch Motronic MP7.3) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, dual) | |
| Oil type | ACEA A3/B3 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 172 kg |
The SOHC V6 layout provides smooth, torquey performance ideal for relaxed cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain timing chain tensioner integrity. ACEA A3/B3 10W‑40 oil is required to ensure proper lubrication of chain rails and cam lobes. Pre‑2001 tensioner rails are prone to wear under extended service; inspect for chain noise or timing drift. Fuel system tolerates standard EN 228 petrol; ethanol blends above E5 are not recommended. Spark plugs and ignition leads should be replaced every 60,000 km to maintain combustion stability per Renault Technical Note 77 13 08 00 P.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B3 10W-40 (Renault TIS Doc. M77-1325). Not compatible with Longlife or C3 oils.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1998–2003 Z7X 723 engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4127). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output assumes EN 228 petrol with ≤5% ethanol (Renault PT-2000).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M77-1321, M77-1322, M77-1325
Renault Technical Note 77 13 08 00 P
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4127)
EU Directive 98/69/EC (Euro 3)
The Renault Z7X 723 was used across Renault's A56/J63/D66 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced sump in the Espace and revised engine mounts in the Avantime—and from 2001 the Laguna I Phase 2 adopted updated timing tensioners, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the left cylinder bank near the timing cover (Renault TIS M77-1321). The 7th VIN digit is '7' for Z7X series engines. Visual identification: aluminium V6 block with single cam covers per bank, Bosch MP7.3 ECU mounted near the battery, and cast aluminium inlet manifold. Differentiate from Z7W: Z7X has SOHC 12-valve architecture and lower power output; Z7W is DOHC 24-valve. Timing tensioner rails changed in 2001; pre-2001 units (e.g., 7700792341) are not interchangeable with later versions due to material upgrade (Renault Technical Note 77 13 08 00 P).
The Z7X 723's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner rail wear in early production units, with elevated incidence in high‑mileage or neglected examples. Renault internal service data (2002) indicated tensioner replacements in over 10% of pre‑2001 engines before 130,000 km, while UK DVSA records show misfire-related MOT failures linked to aged ignition components. Extended oil change intervals and urban driving accelerate wear, making scheduled maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1998–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT Z7X-723.
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