Renault F4R-792 Engine (2008–2016) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault F4R 792 is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2016. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. This naturally aspirated unit delivered 103 kW (140 PS) and 195 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth, linear power delivery across the rev range.

Fitted primarily to the Mégane III and Scénic III, the F4R 792 was designed for refined, everyday driving with an emphasis on low — t…

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2016 models meet Euro 5 standards .

Renault F4R-792 Technical Specifications

The Renault F4R 792 is a 1,998 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact family vehicles (2008-2016). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with variable valve timing to deliver smooth, predictable power and enhanced fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it offers a balance of performance and environmental compliance for its era.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,998 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
82.7 mm × 93.0 mm
Power output
103 kW (140 PS) @ 5,750 rpm
Torque
195 Nm @ 3,750 rpm
Fuel system
Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Siemens)
Emissions standard
Euro 4 (2008–2010); Euro 5 (2011–2016)
Compression ratio
10.1:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
144 kg

Renault F4R-792 Compatible Models

The Renault F4R 792 was used across Renault's Mégane III and Scénic III platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU updates for the 2012 facelift, but no major mechanical revisions affecting core compatibility occurred during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2012
Models:
Mégane III (Phase 1)
Variants:
2.0 16V
View Source
Renault Group PT-2010
Make:
Renault
Years:
2009–2012
Models:
Scénic III (Phase 1)
Variants:
2.0 16V
View Source
Renault Group PT-2010
Make:
Renault
Years:
2012–2016
Models:
Mégane III (Phase 2)
Variants:
2.0 16V
View Source
Renault ETK Doc. R12-4567
Make:
Renault
Years:
2012–2016
Models:
Scénic III (Phase 2)
Variants:
2.0 16V
View Source
Renault ETK Doc. R12-4567

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Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT F4R-792 Compatible Models

Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.

Variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid failure
Symptoms: Rough or erratic idle, loss of power, illuminated check engine light with camshaft position codes, rattling noise from the timing cover.
Cause: Internal solenoid valve sticking due to oil sludge or varnish buildup, or electrical coil failure within the solenoid body.
Fix: Replace the faulty VVT solenoid with the latest OEM-specified part per service bulletin; flush oil system and verify oil pressure and quality.
Ignition coil pack failure
Symptoms: Engine misfire (often on one cylinder), rough idle, illuminated check engine light, reduced fuel economy.
Cause: Heat degradation of internal coil windings and insulation, a common failure point for this generation of coil-on-plug units.
Fix: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s) with the latest OEM-specified part number; inspect spark plugs for fouling.
Thermostat housing/coolant leaks
Symptoms: Coolant smell, visible leaks around the thermostat housing or water pump, low coolant level warning.
Cause: Age-related cracking of the plastic thermostat housing or failure of the O-ring seal on the water pump.
Fix: Replace the thermostat housing assembly or water pump with OEM parts; bleed the cooling system thoroughly.
Inlet manifold runner flap motor failure
Symptoms: Loss of low-end torque, whistling noise from the intake, check engine light with airflow-related fault codes.
Cause: Wear or seizure of the electric motor that controls the variable intake manifold flaps, leading to incorrect runner position.
Fix: Replace the inlet manifold runner control motor with an OEM unit; clear fault codes and perform adaptation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT F4R-792 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The F4R 792 is generally reliable, but the VVT solenoid is a known weak point, especially if oil changes are neglected. Using the correct Renault RN0700/0710 oil and adhering to service intervals significantly reduces the risk of failure. With proper maintenance, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 km.

The most frequent issues are VVT solenoid failure, ignition coil pack failures, coolant leaks from the thermostat housing, and inlet manifold flap motor faults. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins and owner communities.

The F4R 792 was primarily used in the third-generation Renault Mégane (2008-2016) and Scénic (2009-2016), specifically in the 2.0 16V petrol variants. It was not used in any other manufacturers' vehicles under license.

Yes, but gains are modest. An ECU remap can yield around +10-15 kW by optimizing ignition and fuel maps. More significant power requires hardware like performance cams, exhaust, and intake, which is costly. It's better suited to improving drivability than major power increases.

Real-world fuel economy is moderate. Expect around 9.0 L/100km (31 mpg UK) in urban driving and 6.0 L/100km (47 mpg UK) on the highway for a Mégane III. Combined figures typically range from 38-42 mpg UK, depending heavily on driving style and vehicle condition.

Yes. The F4R 792 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable with proper maintenance.

Renault mandates oil meeting RN0700 or RN0710 specifications, typically a 5W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic. Using ACEA A3/B4 oil is the minimum requirement. Correct oil is crucial for preventing VVT solenoid issues and ensuring overall engine health.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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Primary Sources

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.

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