Engine Code

DACIA K4M694 engine (2000–2012) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Dacia K4M 694 is a 1,598 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2012. It belongs to the Renault-Nissan M4M engine family, co-developed with Nissan and used across multiple Renault and Dacia platforms. Featuring multi-point fuel injection (MPi), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves, it delivers 55 kW (75 PS) with 125 Nm of torque, offering reliable performance for urban and regional driving.

Fitted primarily to the Dacia Logan and Symbol, the K4M 694 was engineered for durability and cost-effective ownership. It provides adequate low-end torque and predictable drivability, making it suitable for high-mileage use in emerging markets. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, allowing Euro 3 and Euro 4 compliance across its production run (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).

One documented concern is premature camshaft wear in early production units, particularly in high-temperature operating environments. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Information Bulletin TSB 08-034, is linked to oil flow restrictions in the variable valve timing (VVT) actuator gallery. From 2006, revised oil gallery machining and updated VVT solenoid designs were implemented to improve lubrication and reduce wear incidence.

Dacia Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2012 models meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).

K4M694 Technical Specifications

The Dacia K4M 694 is a 1,598 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and entry-level vehicles (2000–2012). It combines multi-point fuel injection with dual overhead camshafts to deliver balanced drivability and serviceability. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 emissions standards, it prioritises mechanical robustness and ease of repair in high-utilisation applications.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,598 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded, 95 RON)
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke78.0 mm × 83.6 mm
Power output55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque125 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (MPi)
Emissions standardEuro 3 (pre-2006); Euro 4 (2006–2012)
Compression ratio9.8:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemTiming belt (replacement interval: 120,000 km)
Oil typeSAE 10W-40 (ACEA A2/B2)
Dry weight104 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for city driving but lacks high-speed overtaking capability. The timing belt requires strict adherence to the 120,000 km replacement interval to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. SAE 10W-40 ACEA A2/B2 oil is recommended to maintain valve train lubrication and reduce wear. Premature camshaft wear may occur in early units (2000–2005) under sustained high-load operation; post-2006 revisions mitigate this risk. The MPi system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality; use of 95 RON minimum is critical. VVT solenoids should be inspected during major services to prevent oil flow restrictions.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting ACEA A2/B2 standards (Renault Dacia Service Schedule 2008). Compatible with API SL.

Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2006 models; Euro 4 applies to 2006–2012 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).

Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting 95 RON minimum (Renault TIS M4M-A080).

Primary Sources

Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M4M-A080, M4M-FI01, M4M-TM01, TSB 08-034

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)

ACEA Light Duty Engine Oil Sequences 2004

K4M694 Compatible Models

The Dacia K4M 694 was used across Dacia's Logan/Symbol platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Symbol and revised exhaust routing in the Logan-and from 2006 the facelifted Logan I adopted updated VVT and oil gallery designs, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Dacia
Years:
2000–2012
Models:
Logan (Typ 500)
Variants:
1.6 75
View Source
Renault Group PT-2000
Make:
Dacia
Years:
2000–2012
Models:
Symbol (Typ 500)
Variants:
1.6 75
View Source
Renault Group PT-2000
Make:
Renault
Years:
2000–2005
Models:
Clio II
Variants:
1.6 16V
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. M4M-C201
Make:
Renault
Years:
2000–2002
Models:
Megane I
Variants:
1.6 16V
View Source
Renault ETK Doc. M4M-1598
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Renault TIS M4M-A080). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for K4M family). Pre-2006 models have a silver valve cover with black plastic cam cover; post-2006 units use an all-black cover. Critical differentiation from H4M: K4M 694 is naturally aspirated with MPi and lacks variable valve timing. Service parts require model-year verification - VVT solenoids and oil gallery components differ between pre- and post-2006 builds (Renault TSB 08-034).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Renault TIS Doc. M4M-A080

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Renault TIS M4M-A080).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2006: Silver valve cover with black cam cover
  • Post-2006: All-black valve and cam cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Renault TSB 08-034

V V T System:

Post-2006 revisions include updated VVT solenoid design and improved oil gallery machining to reduce camshaft wear in high-load conditions.

Intake Manifold:

Pre-2006 Symbol uses a shorter intake manifold than Logan and post-facelift models.

Common Reliability Issues - DACIA K4M694

The K4M 694's primary reliability risk is premature camshaft wear, with elevated incidence in sustained high-load driving. Renault internal field reports from 2005 noted a measurable increase in valve train noise and misfires in early-production units beyond 80,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows elevated hydrocarbon emissions linked to cam lobe degradation. High-temperature operation and infrequent oil changes accelerate wear, making oil quality and service adherence critical.

Premature camshaft wear
Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise from valve train, misfires, reduced power, increased oil consumption.
Cause: Restricted oil flow to VVT actuator gallery in early units (2000–2005), leading to inadequate camshaft lubrication under sustained load.
Fix: Replace camshaft and VVT solenoid with latest OEM-specified units; verify oil pressure and flow after repair per Renault procedure.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine won't start, severe knocking, bent valves, zero compression.
Cause: Failure to replace timing belt at 120,000 km interval; belt degradation due to heat, oil contamination, or age.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys per manufacturer schedule; inspect water pump condition and replace if necessary.
Throttle body contamination
Symptoms: Idle speed fluctuations, hesitation on acceleration, EML illumination, poor cold-start behaviour.
Cause: Carbon deposits from crankcase gases accumulate on throttle plate and bore, restricting airflow and impairing idle control.
Fix: Clean throttle body with approved solvent and perform electronic adaptation reset using diagnostic tool per Renault procedure.
Coolant leak from water pump
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, sweet smell, low coolant warning.
Cause: Age-related degradation of water pump seal or impeller failure due to corrosion or cavitation.
Fix: Replace water pump with updated OEM part; inspect coolant condition and flush if contaminated.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2000-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about DACIA K4M694

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA K4M694.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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