Renault has a very wide range of small-block engines, which are widely available in numerous compact French cars. The Renault engine discussed in this article debuted in 2000 and is still in production today.
So, the 1.2-liter atmospheric motor with the designation D4F appeared 18 years ago. It replaced the D7F engine with the same displacement, which was launched in 1996.
Renault D4F 1.2 engine specifications.
| Characteristics | Standard modification | Deformed modification |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Row | Row |
| Number of cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Number of valves | 16 | 16 |
| Definite displacement | 1149 cm³ | 1149 cm³ |
| Cylinder diameter | 69 mm | 69 mm |
| Piston stroke | 76.8 mm | 76.8 mm |
| Power system | Injector | Injector |
| Power | 73 – 79 hp | 60 – 65 hp |
| Torque | 105 – 108 Nm | 100 – 105 Nm |
| Compression ratio | 9.8 | 9.8 |
| Fuel type | AI-92 | AI-92 |
| Environmental standards | EURO 3/4 | EURO 4/5 |
| Engine weight | 88 kg | 88 kg |
The Renault 1.2 engine actually has a displacement of 1149 cc – about 1.1 liters when rounded correctly. With such a small volume, the engine develops 75 hp. Such output was achieved due to the transition from 8-valve cylinder head (was in D7F) to 16-valve. At the same time, there is only one camshaft in the block head. Consequently, all its long life this engine exists without a mechanism for adjusting the timing. It also does without EGR and idle speed regulator. There are only 8 cams on the single camshaft, which drive the intake and exhaust valves of each cylinder in pairs by means of split rockers.
Hydrocompensators in the design of the Renault 1.2 D4F engine block head are simply absent, but the adjustment of thermal valve clearances should be carried out manually – the gap is checked with a special dipstick, and is set and adjusted with a screw and locking nut provided in the design of the rocker arms. Adjustment of valves should be carried out once every 80 000 km or according to indications – in the presence of a characteristic knock. Also note that during this procedure it is necessary to install new inlet manifold gaskets and head cover (valve cover).
The timing drive of the Renault 1.2 (D4F) engine uses a toothed belt, which must be replaced every 120,000 km. Standard marks in the timing mechanism are not provided, so when replacing the belt, they should be applied independently.
The cast-iron block of the small motor is very durable. The manufacturer has not provided repair sizes of crankshaft liners and components of the cylinder piston group.
Over the years of production, the Renault 1.2 engine has been repeatedly modernized. The original initial versions were produced under the designations D4F.702 and D4F.712. In 2004, the engine was updated: it received a more optimal intake with a larger air filter, so that the torque of 105 Nm became available at higher speeds. The index of this engine is D4F.722. In 2005, in connection with the appearance of the larger Renault Clio 333, a version D4F.740 with changes in the design of the camshaft and valve tappets, thanks to which the idle speed was reduced to 650 rpm.
In 2007, in parallel with the atmospheric version of Renault 1.2 engine, the production of turbocharged version D4FT with a slightly reduced compression ratio and reinforced piston group was established. Power of turbo motor Renault 1.2 TCe (D4FT) is 100 hp, maximum torque – 144-152. This motor lasted on the conveyor belt until about 2014. It was replaced by the H5Ft engine – Renault’s first turbo gasoline motor with direct injection. It produces 115-130 hp and 190-205 Nm of torque.
Renault D4F 1.2 16v engine service regulations
| Name of works | Periodicity | Volume/Note |
|---|---|---|
| Masloservice | ||
| Oil change | Every 15,000 km | |
| Oil volume in the engine | 4.0 liter | Approximately 3.8 liters required for replacement |
| Oil type | 5W-30, 5W-40 | |
| Gas distribution mechanism | ||
| Type of timing drive | Belt | |
| Declared life of timing belt | 120,000 km | In practice – 60 000 km |
| Belt failure | Bent valves | |
| Valve thermal clearances | ||
| Valve adjustment | Every 80,000 km | Counter nut |
| Inlet clearances | 0.10 – 0.17 mm | With mark on camshaft: 0.25 – 0.32 mm |
| Exhaust clearances | 0.20 – 0.27 mm | With mark on camshaft: 0.35 – 0.42 mm |
| Consumables replacement | ||
| Air filter | 30,000 km | |
| Fuel filter | 120,000 km | |
| Tank filter | 120,000 km | |
| Spark plugs | 30,000 km | |
| Auxiliary belt | 60,000 km | |
| Antifreeze | Every 5 years or 100,000 km |
Engine application.
| Model | Years of manufacture |
|---|---|
| Dacia Logan 1 (L90) | 2009 – 2012 |
| Dacia Logan 2 (L52) | 2012 – 2016 |
| Dacia Logan 2 MCV (R52) | 2013 – 2016 |
| Dacia Sandero 1 (B90) | 2009 – 2012 |
| Dacia Sandero 2 (B52) | 2012 – 2016 |
| Proton Savvy 1 | 2005 – 2013 |
| Renault Clio 2 (X65) | 2001 – 2012 |
| Renault Clio 3 (X85) | 2005 – 2014 |
| Renault Clio 4 (X98) | 2012 – 2018 |
| Renault Kangoo 1 (KC) | 2001 – 2005 |
| Renault Modus 1 (J77) | 2004 – 2012 |
| Renault Sandero 2 (B52) | 2014 – 2016 |
| Renault Symbol 1 (L65) | 2006 – 2008 |
| Renault Symbol 2 (L35) | 2008 – 2012 |
| Renault Symbol 3 (L52) | 2013 – 2017 |
| Renault Twingo 1 (C06) | 2001 – 2007 |
| Renault Twingo 2 (C44) | 2007 – 2014 |
Renault 1.2 (D4F) engine problems and reliability.
Due to its simple design, the D4F engine is very reliable and unpretentious. Some problems with its “health” arise in terms of simple electrical equipment. For example, not very durable is the ignition coil, which is one piece with high-voltage wires. When the ignition system malfunctions, the motor trots. Also, the Renault 1.2 motor can suddenly start to work uncertainly at idle speeds. Most often this happens when the ambient air temperature drops to -15 degrees or less. It is said that in these cases it helps to re-flash the engine.
We have already talked about the knocking of the valves – it is not a malfunction, the knocking is just a reminder of the need to adjust the valve clearances.
With good maintenance, the small motor Renault 1.2 easily goes at least 300 000 km. It is only necessary not to save on engine oil and pour only recommended products. Also do not forget about the timely replacement of the timing belt. When the belt breaks, the pistons of the Renault 1.2 (D4F) engine hit the valves – because of the resulting damage and destruction immediately raises the question of where and at what price to buy a replacement motor.