2.0 16v F4R and F4RT engine: faults and reliability

• 2.0 16v naturally aspirated 135-197 hp (F4R)

  since 2000 · 135–197 hp · F4R

  With caution

  The sources point to the variable valve timing pulley (at around 120,000 km) and call for documented proof of the timing belt change.^[1][2]

• 2.0 turbo 165-250 hp (F4RT)

  since 2004 · 165–250 hp · F4RT

  With caution

  Ask for the invoice for the belt change and check the coils; evo considers the Renaultsport cars more reliable than the rest of the range.^[3][4]

Buy: No known serious faults, or they have already been corrected, in this version. With caution: Worth buying if something specific is verified: history, a replaced part or a completed campaign. Avoid: High risk of a serious fault that is hard to check for or prevent.

1. 1Critical severityFrequency: RareTimingTiming belt failure due to overdue maintenanceIf it is not changed on time, the timing belt on the F4R/F4RT can snap and wreck the engine. Evo and Octane recommend checking the documented belt change before buying a Mégane RS.
2. 2Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalTimingFaulty camshaft variable valve timing pulleyOn the F4R 2.0 16v the variable valve timing pulley can degrade and cause a metallic, diesel-like rattle at idle or when warm. The sources put it at around 120,000 km on the Mégane II; replacement is expensive if done together with the timing belt kit.
3. 3Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalIgnitionF4RT ignition coil failureIgnition coils are a recurring weak point of the Mégane RS 2.0 turbo F4RT: when they fail there is hesitation, rough running and misfires. It is an electrical part fault, not internal engine damage.

Severity colours: low, medium, high, critical. How we rate them

Manufacturer

Renault

Family

Familia F de motores de gasolina de Renault, con distribución por correa.

Fuel

Petrol

Displacement

1,998 cm³

Cylinders

4

Fuel system

Turbo

Injection

Indirect injection

Timing

Timing belt (dry)

Power

135–250 hp

Peak torque

340 Nm

Production

since 2000

Makes

Renault

Technical data^[5]

1. since 2000

   2.0 16v naturally aspirated 135-197 hp (F4R)

   Naturally aspirated version of 1,998 cc; the 172 and 197 hp versions power the Clio RS.^[5]

2. since 2004

   2.0 turbo 165-250 hp (F4RT)

   Twin-scroll turbo version fitted to the Mégane RS; Octane considers it fairly reliable in standard form, with a risk in remapped units.^[4][5]