The Dacia K4M 698 is a 1,598 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2012. It belongs to the Renault-Nissan Alliance's K4M engine family, co-developed with Nissan and used across multiple platforms. Featuring DOHC, 16-valve architecture and multi-point fuel injection, it delivers 70 kW (95 PS) and 140 Nm of torque, providing reliable performance for everyday driving and regional commuting.
Fitted to models such as the Dacia Logan, Sandero, and Symbol, the K4M 698 was engineered for durability, ease of maintenance, and fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda feedback control, allowing Euro 3 and later Euro 4 compliance across its production run. The engine's design prioritises long-term reliability under varied climatic and fuel quality conditions.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in early-production units. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Information Bulletin TECH-ENG-2005-018, is attributed to inadequate damping in the hydraulic tensioner mechanism during cold starts. From 2006, an updated tensioner with revised internal spring preload was introduced to improve belt stability and reduce slippage risk.
Production years 2003–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2012 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Dacia K4M 698 is a 1,598 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and utility vehicles (2003–2012). It combines multi-point fuel injection with dual overhead camshafts to deliver responsive city driving and economical cruising. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances cost-effective ownership with everyday usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 70 kW (95 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2006); Euro 4 (2006–2012) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (80,000 km interval) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (ACEA A2/B2) | |
| Dry weight | 114 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 80,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting ACEA A2/B2 specifications helps maintain hydraulic tensioner performance. Extended idling and short-trip driving increase carbon buildup on intake valves due to lack of direct injection. The MPFI system is tolerant of variable fuel quality but performs best with 98 RON fuel. Post-2006 models feature revised tensioner design; pre-2006 units should be inspected per Renault SIB TECH-ENG-2005-018. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent warm-up cycles and avoiding oil contamination.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting ACEA A2/B2 (Renault SIB TECH-ENG-2005-018). Compatible with Renault RN0700 specification.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 2003–2005 models; Euro 4 applies to 2006–2012 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Renault Group PT-2010).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K4M-TECH-001, K4M-FUEL-012, TECH-ENG-2005-018
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
ECE Regulation No 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Dacia K4M 698 was used across Dacia's Logan Platform with transverse mounting and shared with Renault under Alliance agreements. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Sandero and reinforced mounts in the Logan MCV-and from 2007 the facelifted Logan adopted revised ECU mapping for improved cold-start emissions, creating calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Renault TIS K4M-ID-005). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for K4M series). Pre-2006 models have silver valve covers with ribbed plastic cam covers; post-2006 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from K4M 706: K4M 698 has a timing belt and no variable valve timing (VVT), while K4M 706 uses a chain-driven system with intake phasing. Service parts require model year verification - tensioners for pre-2006 engines are incompatible with post-2006 revisions due to internal design changes (Renault SIB TECH-ENG-2005-018).
The K4M 698's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Renault quality reports from 2007 indicated a measurable rate of pre-2006 engines requiring belt service before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a notable share of emissions-related MOT failures to catalytic converter degradation in high-mileage examples. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2003-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA K4M698.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DACIA Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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