The Renault F4R 820 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 multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form, it delivered 103 kW (140 PS) and 191 Nm of torque, providing a balance of performance and refinement for its era.
Fitted to models such as the Mégane III and Scénic III, the F4R 820 was engineered for responsive everyday driving and motorway stability. Emissions complia…
Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2016 models meet Euro 5 standards depending on market .
The Renault F4R 820 is a 1,998 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact MPVs and hatchbacks (2008-2016). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and adequate mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it offers a blend of performance and drivability for its class.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
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) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 191 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2008–2010); Euro 5 (2011–2016) | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 135 kg |
The Renault F4R 820 was used across Renault's Mégane III and Scénic III platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU mapping variations for different body styles-and no major facelift revisions that affect core mechanical compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The F4R 820's primary documented reliability concern is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to sustained high-RPM operation. Renault internal data indicates this issue was prevalent in early production batches, while owner reports frequently cite related lifter noise. Adherence to correct oil specification and change intervals is the most critical mitigating factor.
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 F4R 820 is generally robust if maintained correctly. Its main weakness is exhaust camshaft wear, primarily affecting early models or those with poor maintenance. Using the correct RN0700 oil and adhering to service intervals is crucial. With proper care, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 km.
The most frequent issues are exhaust camshaft lobe wear, timing chain tensioner rattle, inlet manifold swirl flap failure, and rocker cover oil leaks. These are well-documented in Renault service information and owner reports. Camshaft wear is the most serious and costly to repair.
The F4R 820 2.0L petrol engine was primarily used in the Renault Mégane III (2008-2016) and Scénic III (2009-2016), across various trim levels. It was the standard 2.0L engine before the introduction of the turbocharged F4Rt in performance models.
Yes, but gains are modest due to its naturally aspirated design. ECU remaps can yield 5-10 kW. More significant power requires hardware like performance cams, exhaust, and intake, potentially reaching 120-130 kW. Tuning increases stress on the camshaft, so caution and supporting mods are advised.
Real-world fuel economy is moderate for its era. Expect around 8.5-9.5 L/100km (30-27 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a Mégane III. Highway cruising can achieve 6.5-7.0 L/100km (43-40 mpg UK). Economy is heavily influenced by driving style due to the need for higher RPMs.
Yes. The F4R 820 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps significantly, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Regular inspection of the timing chain and tensioner is vital.
Renault mandates oil meeting the RN0700 specification, typically a 5W-40 viscosity grade (ACEA A3/B4). Using the correct oil is non-negotiable to prevent camshaft wear. Popular brands include Elf Evolution SXR 5W-40 or Mobil 1 ESP 5W-40 that meet RN0700.
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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