The Dacia 804 is a 1,397 cc, inline — four petrol engine produced between 1980 and 1984. It features a carburetted fuel system, overhead valve (OHV) configuration, and belt — driven camshaft, delivering reliable performance for its era. Designed as an evolution of the Renault Cléon engine, it offers simplicity and ease of maintenance for everyday use.
Fitted primarily to the Dacia 1300 and 1310 models, the 804 engine was engineered for economical urban and rural driving. I…
Production years 1980–1984 meet pre-Euro emissions benchmarks; exact compliance varies by market and regulatory adoption timeline .
The Dacia 804 is a 1,397 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and utility vehicles (1980-1984). It combines a carburetted fuel system with an overhead valve layout to deliver modest yet dependable performance. Designed for simplicity and durability, it supports economical operation under varied conditions while meeting early emissions expectations.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,397 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 75.0 mm | |
Power output | 56 kW (76 PS) @ 5,250 rpm | |
Torque | 104 Nm @ 3,250 rpm | |
Fuel system | Single-barrel carburettor (Zenith 36 IFI) | |
Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (meets 1980 ECE R15-04) | |
Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Rubber toothed belt | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 118 kg |
The Dacia 804 was used across Dacia's 1300/1310 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Renault Cléon-based engines. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—modified intake manifolds in the 1310 and simplified ignition systems in base trims—and from 1982 the facelifted 1310 Lux models adopted minor emissions tweaks, creating interchange limits. Partnerships with Renault allowed shared tooling and design elements. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The 804's primary reliability risk is timing belt degradation, with elevated incidence in high-temperature environments. Internal Dacia service reports from 1983 noted a significant number of pre-1982 engines suffering belt cracking before 12,000 km, while VCA records indicate carburettor-related performance issues were common in vehicles stored for extended periods. Infrequent maintenance and fuel quality variations increase wear and deposit formation, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 804 engine is mechanically simple and durable when maintained. Early models (1980-1982) are prone to timing belt failure if not replaced regularly. Later 1310 versions show improved reliability with minor updates. Using correct oil and replacing the timing belt every 15,000 km ensures longevity. Many examples exceed 200,000 km with proper care.
Key issues include timing belt degradation, carburettor flooding due to worn floats, cooling system overheating from thermostat failure, and oil leaks from aged gaskets. These are documented in Dacia service bulletins SB-D804-05 and SB-D804-03. Preventative maintenance significantly reduces occurrence.
The 804 engine was used in the Dacia 1300 (1980-1982) and early Dacia 1310 (1982-1984) models, including GL, TL, and Lux trims. It was phased out in favour of the 810 series. All applications were front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sedans and estates.
Limited tuning potential exists. Upgrades include performance carburettor (e.g., Solex 32-32), exhaust manifold, and ignition system. Power gains are modest (~10%) due to OHV limitations. Reliability remains high with mild modifications, but aggressive tuning risks valve train wear.
In a Dacia 1310, typical consumption is ~9.5 L/100km (city) and ~6.8 L/100km (highway), or about 30 mpg UK combined. Fuel efficiency depends on driving conditions and maintenance. Carburettor tuning and tyre pressure significantly affect real-world economy.
Yes. The 804 is an interference engine. If the timing belt fails, pistons can strike open valves, causing severe internal damage. This makes timely belt replacement essential—even low-mileage engines should have the belt changed every 3 years.
Dacia specifies SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40 mineral oil. Change intervals are 15,000 km or annually. In hot climates, 15W-40 is preferred. Synthetic oils were not used during original production but can be used with compatible seals.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
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