🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Renault

Model:

21

Years Covered:

1986-1994

Chassis Codes:

L48, K48, B48, V48

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Family car, mid-size sedan and estate/wagon, positioned as a practical and spacious European vehicle

Competitors:

Ford Sierra, Opel/Vauxhall Vectra, Volkswagen Passat, Peugeot 405, Citroën BX

Design Philosophy:

Emphasis on aerodynamic design (developed with wind tunnel testing), spacious interior, comfort, and practicality

Body Styles:

Offered in Sedan (4-door), Hatchback (5-door), Estate/Wagon (5-door), and a coupé version (Renault Fuego, sharing some mechanicals but a distinct model)

Aerodynamics:

Notable for its low drag coefficient, contributing to fuel efficiency

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All repairs, servicing, and troubleshooting procedures

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided but described as extensive)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English (implied by product description and target market)

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, repair of all major components (cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, valve train)

Engine Management:

Fuel injection systems (e.g., Bosch L-Jetronic, Motronic), ignition systems, emission control systems, diagnostics, troubleshooting of electronic control units (ECUs)

Transmission:

Manual transmission (gearbox) overhaul, clutch system repair, automatic transmission (if applicable for specific engines) diagnosis and repair

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive components, driveshafts, CV joints, differential (if integrated), wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front suspension (e.g., MacPherson struts, independent suspension), rear suspension (e.g., torsion beam, independent), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment procedures

Steering:

Steering rack, power steering system (pump, hoses, fluid), steering column, troubleshooting

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, brake lines, master cylinder, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake pads, brake discs, drum brakes, parking brake, ABS system (if equipped), bleeding procedures, troubleshooting

Electrical System:

12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, hinges, locks, window regulators, bodywork adjustments, chassis lubrication points, rust prevention

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling (if applicable), blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor

Interior Trim:

Removal and installation of dashboard, seats, door panels, carpeting, headliner

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Systematic approach to identifying and resolving common and complex faults

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and adjustments

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed service intervals for various components based on mileage or time

Component Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for disassembling, repairing, and reassembling virtually all vehicle components

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts and procedures for identifying faults in various systems

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems

Specification Tables:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values

Engine Tuning:

Carburetor adjustment, fuel injection system tuning (if applicable), ignition timing adjustment.

Emission Control Service:

Service and adjustment of emission control systems, catalytic converter replacement (where fitted).

Depth:

Professional-level detail, suitable for mechanics and serious DIY enthusiasts; covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Printability:

Printable pages (single or entire manual)

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Device Compatibility:

Compatible with computers (Windows & MAC), tablets, and smartphones

Usage License:

Lifetime use, no expiry dates, usable on multiple devices

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Range of petrol and diesel engines: 1.4L, 1.6L, 1.7L, 1.8L, 2.0L (petrol) and 1.9L (diesel, naturally aspirated and turbo)

Engine Examples:

Examples: 2.0L 'J7R' engine producing approx. 108-120 PS, 1.9L 'F8Q' diesel producing approx. 65 PS

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor (early models, some variants) and Fuel Injection (later models and higher trims)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled, pressurized system

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Types:

5-speed manual transmission standard on most models

Optional Transmission:

3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission available on select engines/trims

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan Approx:

4.45 m (175 in)

Width Approx:

1.73 m (68 in)

Height Sedan Approx:

1.40 m (55 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

1050-1200 kg (2315-2646 lbs) depending on engine and trim

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

While specific standardized ratings from major agencies like Euro NCAP are not readily available for models of this era, the design focused on structural integrity for its time. The manual would cover safety system diagnostics.

Airbags:

Driver airbag became available on later models or higher trims. Manual would cover airbag system diagnostics and replacement if equipped.

Seatbelts:

Standard seatbelts; front seatbelt pre-tensioners may have been fitted on later models. Manual covers seatbelt mechanism inspection.

Body Structure:

Designed with crumple zones for energy absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted radio/cassette player; provisions for aftermarket upgrades. Manual covers wiring and installation.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on higher trims or later models. Manual covers ABS system components, diagnosis, and bleeding procedures.

Wiring Harnesses:

The manual provides detailed wiring diagrams essential for understanding and troubleshooting the vehicle's electrical and electronic systems, including any early forms of diagnostics or control modules.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 km (4,500 - 6,000 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil specification. Manual provides detailed recommendations.

Timing Belt Interval:

Critical for 2.0L engines; typically 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles). Manual will specify exact interval and replacement procedure.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific intervals based on engine type (e.g., 30,000-40,000 km).

Engine Oil Grade:

Varies by engine; commonly 10W-40 or 10W-50 (API SF/SG or higher). Manual provides exact API and viscosity ratings.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant. Manual specifies capacity and type (e.g., Renault Type D). Mixture of 50% coolant and 50% distilled water recommended.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual specifies exact type and replacement interval.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-80 or 75W-90. Manual provides specific capacity and part number recommendation.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF). Manual specifies type and capacity.

Common Faults:

Timing belt failure (critical to adhere to replacement schedule), electrical gremlins (corrosion in connectors, failing relays), carburetor issues (on older models), suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), rust (especially on sills and wheel arches).

Diesel Engine Issues:

Glow plug issues, injection pump timing, head gasket on high-mileage units.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Renault S.A. is a French multinational automobile manufacturer established in 1899.

Predecessor:

Renault 18

Successor:

Renault Laguna

Production Period:

1986-1994

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily France (e.g., Sandouville, Douai) and other international plants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Accolades:

The Renault 21 was recognized for its advanced aerodynamic design for its era and its comfortable, spacious interior. It contributed to Renault's reputation for innovation in passenger car design during the late 20th century.