🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Renault

Model:

Clio

Model Variant:

Clio II RS (172)

Engine Code Designation:

F4R 736 / F4R 738

Chassis Code:

CB0

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Hot Hatch / Performance Compact Car

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts and owners seeking in-depth knowledge for DIY maintenance and repair.

Key Competitors:

Peugeot 206 GTI, Ford Fiesta ST, Volkswagen Golf GTI (earlier generations), Seat Ibiza Cupra.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides professional-grade repair and maintenance information, empowering owners to maintain their vehicle effectively, saving time and money.

Manual Usability:

Easy-to-read text, high-quality diagrams, step-by-step instructions, suitable for both novice and experienced mechanics.

Diagnostic Capability:

Essential for diagnosing and rectifying complex issues, particularly electrical and engine management problems.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

1998-2006 (Clio II platform)

Trim Levels Covered:

RS 172 (Sport)

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific publication, typically 500-1500+ pages

Manual Type:

Full Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Full engine overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (JB series), clutch system, gearshift mechanism, drivelines, CV joints.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, hydraulic system, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam axle, anti-roll bars, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.

Steering:

Power-assisted rack and pinion steering system, steering column, components.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, fuses, relays, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnostics.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis components, collision repair guidelines.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater, ventilation, cabin filter replacement.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel injectors.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid service, coolant service.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation, electrical system diagnostics.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) procedures, sensor testing, actuator testing, ECU diagnostic procedures.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing components such as timing belts, water pumps, radiators, alternators, starters, fuel injectors, brake pads, discs, and more.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Printability:

Full Printable (designed for printing specific pages or the entire manual)

Zoom Functionality:

YES (Allows for detailed viewing of diagrams and text)

Binding Type:

Digital (Downloadable, no physical binding)

Paper Type Recommendation:

Not applicable (Digital format); printing on durable paper is recommended for workshop use.

Required Software:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (or equivalent unzipping software)

Operating Systems:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1998 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

82.7 mm x 93.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.5:1

Horsepower:

172 PS (169 bhp) @ 6250 rpm

Torque:

200 Nm (148 lb-ft) @ 5250 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (RON 95 or higher recommended)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition (Coil-on-plug)

Cooling Medium:

Water-cooled, pressurized

Oil Type Specification:

API SL/SM, ACEA A3/B4, SAE 5W-40 (or as specified by Renault for performance engines)

Timing Belt Intervals:

Recommended replacement every 120,000 km or 5 years (whichever comes first), but check specific manual for exact interval. Includes idler pulleys and tensioners.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Model:

JB3 (or similar Renault performance manual gearbox)

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios available in manual; designed for performance driving.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, single dry plate

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

Renault Matic D2, or equivalent GL-4 SAE 75W-80 synthetic gear oil.

Driveline Type:

Front-wheel drive (FWD)

Front Axles:

CV (Constant Velocity) axles with protective boots.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 3814 mm (149.8 in)

Width:

Approx. 1630 mm (64.2 in) (excluding mirrors)

Height:

Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2472 mm (97.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1060 kg (2337 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Typically around 1500 kg

Luggage Capacity:

Approx. 255 liters (9.0 cu ft), expandable with rear seats folded.

🛡️ Safety Features

Euroncap Rating:

4-star (for Clio II, specific rating may vary by testing year and exact model configuration)

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Esp:

Optional or standard on later models (Electronic Stability Programme)

Brake Distribution:

EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags often optional.

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioning front seatbelts.

Chassis Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted CD player with radio, often with steering wheel controls. Upgrades and aftermarket options are common.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some models.

Bluetooth:

Not standard on early models; often available as an aftermarket upgrade or integrated into later infotainment systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Recommended every 15,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first. Inspect oil condition more frequently.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 km, replace as needed or at least every 30,000 km.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Recommended annually or as needed for air quality.

Brake Fluid Change:

Recommended every 2 years to maintain performance and prevent corrosion.

Coolant Change:

Recommended every 4 years or 120,000 km, depending on coolant type.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.5 liters (with filter)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 liters

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Refer to manual, typically Dexron III or a specific Renault fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Rear axle bushes (leading to poor handling), clutch release bearing, engine mounts, CV joint boots, front suspension top mounts.

Engine Specific Notes:

Spark plug coil packs can be a failure point. Ensure correct torque for spark plugs. Timing belt service is critical.

Electrical Gremlins:

Some models can suffer from minor electrical faults, often related to earth points or connectors. Detailed wiring diagrams are essential for diagnosis.

Performance Considerations:

Regularly check tyre pressures and condition for optimal handling. Monitor brake fluid level and condition.

📚 Vehicle History

Renault Performance History:

Renault has a long and successful history in motorsport and performance vehicles, evident in the Clio RS lineage.

Clio Rs Development:

The Clio RS (Rallye Sport) models are developed by Renault Sport Technologies, focusing on enhanced performance, handling, and braking over standard Clio models.

Clio Ii Rs 172 Generation:

The Clio II RS 172 was a significant iteration, lauded for its agile chassis and potent naturally aspirated engine, often considered a benchmark in its class.

Production Period:

Clio II platform produced from 1998 to 2006. The RS 172 variant was produced within this period, with facelifts and minor updates.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reputation:

The Clio II RS 172 is highly regarded by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its driving dynamics, spirited engine, and value for money as a performance car.

Class Awards:

Frequently featured in 'hot hatch' or 'best driver's car' lists of its era.