The Renault 852 720 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2001 and 2010. It features common — rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form, it delivered outputs ranging from 81 kW (110 PS) to 96 kW (130 PS), engineered for responsive performance in passenger cars.
Fitted primarily to the Mégane II, Scénic II, and Laguna II, the 852 720 was designed to offer a blend of fuel econom…
Production years 2001–2010 meet Euro 4 standards . DPF-equipped variants from 2006 comply with Euro 4b.
The Renault 852 720 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size passenger vehicles (2001-2010). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑end torque and efficient highway performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances everyday drivability with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,870 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 80.0 mm × 93.0 mm | |
Power output | 81–96 kW (110–130 PS) | |
Torque | 240–300 Nm @ 1,750–2,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Common-rail direct injection (Siemens or Delphi) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 16.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Variable-geometry turbo (Garrett or Mitsubishi) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 148 kg |
The Renault 852 720 was used across Renault's Mégane/Scénic/Laguna platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its production run, though minor ECU and emissions hardware revisions occurred. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The 852 720's primary reliability risk is EGR cooler failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or stop-start urban vehicles. Renault internal data indicated a high replacement rate for pre-2006 coolers, while fleet reports frequently cite DPF regeneration faults in vehicles with predominantly short journeys. Extended idling and infrequent oil changes accelerate wear on the turbo and injection system.
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 852 720 offers good performance and efficiency, but its long-term reliability hinges on proactive maintenance. The EGR cooler (pre-2006) and DPF system are known weak points. Later models and those with the revised cooler are more robust. Strict adherence to oil change intervals and using the correct ACEA B4 specification oil are paramount for longevity.
The most frequent issues are EGR cooler failure (causing coolant loss and potential engine damage), DPF regeneration faults (leading to limp mode), electronic turbo actuator failures (causing boost issues), and wear in the high-pressure fuel pump. These are well-documented in Renault service information.
This 1.9L dCi engine was widely used in Renault's passenger car lineup from 2001-2010. Key models include the Mégane II, Scénic II, Laguna II, and Espace IV, typically badged as dCi 110, dCi 120, or dCi 130 depending on the power output and model year.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the 852-720 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
Fuel economy is very good for its era. In a Mégane II or Scénic II, expect real-world figures of approximately 6.0–7.0 L/100km (40–47 mpg UK) combined. In a heavier Laguna II or Espace IV, consumption may be slightly higher at 7.0–8.0 L/100km (35–40 mpg UK). Economy is heavily dependent on driving style and DPF regeneration cycles.
Yes. The Renault 852 720 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons would contact the open valves, resulting in severe internal engine damage. While the chain is generally reliable, any unusual noises should be investigated promptly.
Renault specifies an oil meeting ACEA B4 standards and their own RN0700 or RN0710 approval, typically a 5W-40 full synthetic. Using the correct specification is critical for protecting the high-pressure fuel pump, turbocharger, and ensuring proper DPF function. Never use oils not meeting these approvals.
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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