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.

Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2012 models meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
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.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPi) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2006); Euro 4 (2006–2012) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (replacement interval: 120,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (ACEA A2/B2) | |
| Dry weight | 104 kg |
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.
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).
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
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.
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).
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.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2000-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA K4M694.
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