Oil-Renault uses its own proprietary oil specification system — RN codes — that go beyond generic ACEA ratings. Using the correct Renault-approved oil protects your engine warranty, ensures compatibility with your emission system, and maximises engine life. This page covers every Renault oil norm and links to our detailed guides for specific models.
Understanding Renault Oil Specifications
Renault introduced its own oil specification system in 2007 with the launch of the Laguna III. Unlike some manufacturers who simply defer to ACEA ratings, Renault adds proprietary testing requirements that oils must pass before receiving official approval. There are three main Renault specifications you'll encounter.
RN0700 — Standard Petrol & Diesel (Pre-DPF)
RN0700 is the baseline Renault specification for naturally aspirated and older turbocharged petrol engines, plus diesel engines without a diesel particulate filter (DPF). It maps broadly to ACEA A3/B4 performance levels but includes Renault-specific tests for sludge resistance and valve train wear. Typical viscosity grades are 5W-40 and 5W-30. If your Renault was built before 2018 and doesn't have a DPF, this is likely the spec you need. Common oils meeting RN0700 include Elf Evolution 900 SXR 5W-40 and Total Quartz 9000 5W-40.
RN0710 — Higher Performance Petrol & Diesel
RN0710 shares the same ACEA A3/B4 base as RN0700 but adds more demanding requirements for high-temperature stability and wear protection. It's specified for higher-performance naturally aspirated engines, some turbocharged models, and certain diesel variants without DPF. RN0710 oils are backward-compatible with RN0700 — meaning any oil that meets RN0710 also satisfies RN0700 requirements.
RN17 — Modern Turbocharged & Euro 6 Engines (2018+)
RN17 is Renault's newest specification, introduced for modern turbocharged gasoline direct injection (TGDi) engines and Euro 6 diesel engines from 2018 onwards. It offers improved oxidation performance, better piston cleanliness, and specific protection for gasoline particulate filters (GPF). RN17 oils are also backward-compatible with RN0700 and RN0710, making them safe for older Renault engines too. Typical viscosity is 5W-30, and many RN17 oils also carry ACEA C3 certification. Oils meeting RN17 include Elf Evolution Full-Tech FE 5W-30 and Total Quartz INEO MC3 5W-30.
Which Renault Oil Spec Do I Need?
The simplest way to find your Renault's required oil specification is to check the owner's manual or the label inside the oil filler cap. As a general guide: pre-2018 petrol engines without turbo need RN0700, higher-performance older engines need RN0710, and any Renault built from 2018 onwards with a turbocharged engine needs RN17. When in doubt, RN17 is backward-compatible with both older specs — it's the safest choice for any Renault.
Elf — Renault's Official Oil Partner
Renault has a long-standing technical partnership with Elf (now part of TotalEnergies). Elf oils are used as factory fill in all Renault vehicles and are the primary recommendation in Renault service manuals. However, any oil carrying the correct RN approval code is equally suitable — brands like Mobil 1, Castrol, Shell, and Total all offer Renault-approved products. The specification matters more than the brand.