🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Renault Model: 18 Production Years: 1978-1986 Codes Chassis Codes: R18M (Saloon/Sedan), R18U (Estate/Station Wagon) 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Renault 18 was positioned as a family car, offering practicality, comfort, and a range of engine options, competing with models like the Ford Sierra, Opel/Vauxhall Cavalier, and Volkswagen Passat. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Sierra, Opel/Vauxhall Cavalier, Volkswagen Passat, Peugeot 505, Fiat Regata. Key Features Design Philosophy: Designed with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency and interior space, reflecting contemporary automotive design trends. Front-wheel drive layout contributed to good cabin space. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Service and Repair Workshop Manual Language: English (implied by product description) Format: PDF Download Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely extensive, covering all 'A-Z' repairs. Typical workshop manuals for this era range from 500 to 1500+ pages. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Engine mechanical (including disassembly, assembly, rebuilding), engine management systems, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetor and injection depending on variant), exhaust system. Transmission: Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul procedures. Clutch system. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive components, driveshafts, differentials. Suspension: Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment procedures. Steering: Steering rack, power steering system (if equipped), tie rods, steering column. Brakes: Hydraulic brake system, front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typical for the era), parking brake system, bleeding procedures. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system, lighting system, instrument cluster, fuse box, switches, relays. Bodywork: Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, hood, trunk, interior trim, body repair techniques. Body And Chassis: Structural integrity, body panel replacement, welding procedures, underbody protection, sound deadening. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tune-up procedures. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (if applicable for the era's technology). Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems and components, including major overhauls. Rebuild: Comprehensive procedures for engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds. Restoration: Guidance on procedures relevant to restoring the vehicle, including disassembly, parts identification, and reassembly. Troubleshooting Charts: Likely includes detailed diagnostic charts and flowcharts to aid in pinpointing issues. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full component rebuilds and diagnostics, intended for professional technicians but accessible to skilled DIYers. Torque Specifications: Includes precise torque values for all critical fasteners in engine, transmission, suspension, and chassis components. Clearances And Tolerances: Provides essential machining and assembly clearances and tolerances for engine components, bearing journals, and other precision parts. Wiring Diagrams: Detailed and often color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, facilitating diagnostics and repairs. Special Tool Identification: Identifies any specific Renault or aftermarket tools required for certain repair or adjustment procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick location of specific information. Print Quality Printability: High-quality, printable diagrams and procedures, allowing users to print specific pages as needed. Binding Type Binding: Digital (Downloadable PDF), not a physical book. Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Family: Renault "J" series engines (common for the era) Engine Variants Engine Displacements: Commonly 1.4L (1397cc), 1.6L (1565cc), 1.7L (1721cc), and 2.0L (1995cc). Diesel variants (1.9L) were also available. Performance Horsepower Range: Approximately 60 hp to 110 hp depending on engine size and tuning (e.g., base 1.4L to 2.0L GTX/TS variants). Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Carburetor (e.g., Solex, Weber) on most models; fuel injection (e.g., Bosch L-Jetronic) on higher performance variants like the TS/GTX. Ignition System Ignition Type: Typically distributor-based electronic or contact breaker ignition. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission. Optional Transmission Type: 3-speed automatic transmission (less common). Features Drive Layout: Front-wheel drive (FWD). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 4-door Saloon/Sedan, 5-door Estate/Station Wagon (Break). Length: Approx. 4350-4450 mm (Saloon), 4400-4500 mm (Estate), depending on model and year. Width: Approx. 1690-1720 mm. Height: Approx. 1380-1440 mm (Saloon), 1450-1500 mm (Estate). Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 950-1150 kg, depending on engine and body style. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test History: Limited public data for this specific era; general safety standards of the time applied. Later versions may have incorporated minor safety improvements. Active Features Braking System: Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional front ventilated discs on performance models. Passive Features Seat Belts: Standard three-point seatbelts in the front; lap belts in the rear. Chassis Design: Unitary body construction with crumple zones designed according to safety standards of the late 1970s and early 1980s. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player on higher trims. Speaker configuration typically front doors and rear parcel shelf. Driver Assistance Driver Aids: Very limited by modern standards. ABS was not standard and likely optional on later, higher-trim models. No electronic stability control or traction control. Connectivity Connectivity...
The Renault 18 was positioned as a family car, offering practicality, comfort, and a range of engine options, competing with models like the Ford Sierra, Opel/Vauxhall Cavalier, and Volkswagen Passat.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Ford Sierra, Opel/Vauxhall Cavalier, Volkswagen Passat, Peugeot 505, Fiat Regata.
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
Designed with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency and interior space, reflecting contemporary automotive design trends. Front-wheel drive layout contributed to good cabin space.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Language:
English (implied by product description)
Format:
PDF Download
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Likely extensive, covering all 'A-Z' repairs. Typical workshop manuals for this era range from 500 to 1500+ pages.
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
Engine mechanical (including disassembly, assembly, rebuilding), engine management systems, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (carburetor and injection depending on variant), exhaust system.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul procedures. Clutch system.
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (if applicable for the era's technology).
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems and components, including major overhauls.
Rebuild:
Comprehensive procedures for engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds.
Restoration:
Guidance on procedures relevant to restoring the vehicle, including disassembly, parts identification, and reassembly.
Troubleshooting Charts:
Likely includes detailed diagnostic charts and flowcharts to aid in pinpointing issues.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full component rebuilds and diagnostics, intended for professional technicians but accessible to skilled DIYers.
Torque Specifications:
Includes precise torque values for all critical fasteners in engine, transmission, suspension, and chassis components.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Provides essential machining and assembly clearances and tolerances for engine components, bearing journals, and other precision parts.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed and often color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, facilitating diagnostics and repairs.
Special Tool Identification:
Identifies any specific Renault or aftermarket tools required for certain repair or adjustment procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick location of specific information.
Print Quality
Printability:
High-quality, printable diagrams and procedures, allowing users to print specific pages as needed.
Binding Type
Binding:
Digital (Downloadable PDF), not a physical book.
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Family:
Renault "J" series engines (common for the era)
Engine Variants
Engine Displacements:
Commonly 1.4L (1397cc), 1.6L (1565cc), 1.7L (1721cc), and 2.0L (1995cc). Diesel variants (1.9L) were also available.
Performance
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 60 hp to 110 hp depending on engine size and tuning (e.g., base 1.4L to 2.0L GTX/TS variants).
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (e.g., Solex, Weber) on most models; fuel injection (e.g., Bosch L-Jetronic) on higher performance variants like the TS/GTX.
Ignition System
Ignition Type:
Typically distributor-based electronic or contact breaker ignition.
Approx. 4350-4450 mm (Saloon), 4400-4500 mm (Estate), depending on model and year.
Width:
Approx. 1690-1720 mm.
Height:
Approx. 1380-1440 mm (Saloon), 1450-1500 mm (Estate).
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 950-1150 kg, depending on engine and body style.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test History:
Limited public data for this specific era; general safety standards of the time applied. Later versions may have incorporated minor safety improvements.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional front ventilated discs on performance models.
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Standard three-point seatbelts in the front; lap belts in the rear.
Chassis Design:
Unitary body construction with crumple zones designed according to safety standards of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player on higher trims. Speaker configuration typically front doors and rear parcel shelf.
Driver Assistance
Driver Aids:
Very limited by modern standards. ABS was not standard and likely optional on later, higher-trim models. No electronic stability control or traction control.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
No integrated Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone connectivity. Reliance on aftermarket solutions for modern connectivity.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000-30,000 km (10,000-20,000 miles), depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial for interference engines. Typically every 60,000-80,000 km (40,000-50,000 miles) or 4-5 years. Consult manual for specific engine. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SF/CD or SG/CD rated oils, with viscosity grades like 10W-40 or 15W-50 commonly recommended, depending on climate. Consult manual for exact specifications.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific coolant types might be mentioned in the manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. Always use fresh fluid and flush periodically.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual transmission: GL-4 gear oil. Automatic transmission: ATF Dexron II or equivalent. Consult manual for exact specifications and capacities.
Known Issues
Rust Corrosion:
Common in many vehicles of this era, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and lower body panels. Regular inspection and rust prevention are key.
Carburetor Issues:
Wear and tear on carburetors can lead to starting problems, rough idling, and poor fuel economy. Rebuilding or replacement might be necessary.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, and failing switches can lead to intermittent electrical issues. Thorough electrical diagnostics are often required.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear out, affecting handling and steering. Regular inspection and replacement are important.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer Origins:
Renault is a French automobile manufacturer founded in 1899, known for innovation in vehicle design and engineering.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
Renault 12.
Successor:
Renault 21.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily France, but also produced under license in various countries including Spain, Argentina, and others.
Total Production Run:
Significant production numbers, with millions of units produced globally across sedan and estate variants.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Market Reception:
Generally considered a competent and reliable family car for its time, praised for its interior space and fuel efficiency in certain variants. Sold well across Europe.