Engine Code

DACIA K7J710 engine (2008–2013) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Dacia K7J 710 is a 1,390 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It forms part of the Renault-Nissan-Dacia shared powertrain family, designed for affordability and ease of maintenance. Featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPi), and 8-valve architecture, it delivers 59 kW (80 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 118 Nm of torque at 3,250 rpm.

Fitted to core models such as the Dacia Sandero and Logan, the K7J 710 was engineered for economical urban commuting and reliable rural use. Its design prioritises fuel efficiency and durability under varied conditions, achieving Euro 4 emissions compliance through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control. This makes it suitable for markets with moderate fuel quality and service infrastructure.

One documented concern is premature camshaft wear observed in early-production units, particularly in high-ambient-temperature regions. This issue, addressed in Renault Group Service Bulletin TSB 08-045, is linked to lubrication film breakdown under sustained high-load operation. From 2010, revised camshaft surface treatment and updated oil change intervals were implemented to improve longevity.

Dacia Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2013 models maintain Euro 4 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

K7J710 Technical Specifications

The Dacia K7J 710 is a 1,390 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for entry-level hatchbacks and sedans (2008–2013). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver predictable performance and low running costs. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances urban drivability with mechanical simplicity.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,390 cc
Fuel typePetrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min)
ConfigurationInline-4, SOHC, 8-valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke78.0 mm × 73.0 mm
Power output59 kW (80 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque118 Nm @ 3,250 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (MPi)
Emissions standardEuro 4
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerNot applicable
Timing systemTiming belt (renew every 120,000 km or 6 years)
Oil typeSAE 5W-30 (ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5)
Dry weight108 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for city driving but requires timely maintenance to ensure long-term reliability. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5 is essential for camshaft and valve train protection, particularly in hot climates. The timing belt must be replaced every 120,000 km or 6 years—failure to do so risks catastrophic engine damage. Fuel quality is critical; low-octane fuel can cause persistent knocking and long-term piston ring wear. Post-2010 models benefit from improved camshaft surface hardening; pre-2010 units should follow revised oil change intervals per Renault SIB 08 045. The catalytic converter requires regular full-load operation to prevent clogging in stop-start traffic.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5 (Renault SIB 08 045). Compatible with common OEM specifications including VW 502 00.

Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all K7J 710 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 5 variant exists.

Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets; no performance variants.

Primary Sources

Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B17420, B17605, SIB 08 045

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

ECE Regulation No 85 (Engine Power Measurement)

K7J710 Compatible Models

The Dacia K7J 710 was used across Dacia's Logan/Sandero platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Renault and Nissan for global applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the Sandero and revised exhaust routing in the Logan-and from 2010 the facelifted Logan II introduced minor ECU recalibrations, creating partial interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Dacia
Years:
2008–2013
Models:
Logan
Variants:
1.4 MPI (80 PS)
View Source
Renault Group PT-2019
Make:
Dacia
Years:
2008–2012
Models:
Sandero
Variants:
1.4 MPI (80 PS)
View Source
Renault Group PT-2019
Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2012
Models:
Clio III
Variants:
1.4 (80 PS)
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. B17420
Make:
Nissan
Years:
2010–2013
Models:
Micra K13
Variants:
1.4 (80 PS)
View Source
Nissan EPC #NIS-882
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Renault TIS B17420). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for K7J series). Pre-2010 models have silver valve covers with ribbed intake manifolds; post-2010 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from K7M: K7J 710 has a single camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves, while K7M has DOHC and 16 valves. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for pre-2010 models are incompatible with post-2010 ECU-controlled variants due to tensioner redesign (Renault SIB 08 045).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Renault TIS Doc. B17420

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Renault TIS B17420).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2010: Silver valve cover with ribbed intake manifold
  • Post-2010: Black valve cover with smooth intake manifold
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Renault SIB 08 045

E C U Variants:

Post-2010 models use updated ECU firmware for improved idle stability; retrofitting requires full ECU and sensor compatibility check.

Timing Components:

Timing belts and tensioners for pre-2010 K7J 710 models are not compatible with post-2010 Logan II variants due to automatic tensioner revisions.
Camshaft Wear Advisory

Issue:

Early K7J 710 engines exhibited camshaft lobe wear in high-temperature operating conditions.

Evidence:

Renault SIB 08 045

Recommendation:

Use high-detergent 5W-30 oil and adhere to 15,000 km oil change intervals. Verify camshaft condition during timing belt service.

Common Reliability Issues - DACIA K7J710

The K7J 710's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Renault quality reports from 2011 noted increased warranty claims for camshaft replacement in Southern European and North African markets, while UK DVSA data shows timing belt neglect as a leading cause of engine failure in imported units. Extended oil intervals and low-octane fuel exacerbate wear, making maintenance adherence critical.

Camshaft wear or failure
Symptoms: Ticking noise at idle, loss of power, misfires, high oil consumption, metal particles in oil filter.
Cause: Insufficient lubrication film on cam lobes under sustained high-load operation; early camshafts lacked surface hardening treatment.
Fix: Replace camshaft with revised OEM part; renew oil pump and valve lifters. Use high-quality 5W-30 oil and inspect every 60,000 km.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine won't start, metallic clunking, bent valves, zero compression on multiple cylinders.
Cause: Delayed replacement beyond 120,000 km or 6 years; exposure to coolant leaks or oil contamination accelerating belt degradation.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, idler pulleys, and water pump per service schedule. Verify cam/crank alignment post-installation.
Idle speed instability
Symptoms: Fluctuating idle RPM, stalling at stop, cold-start hesitation, check engine light with idle control DTCs.
Cause: Carbon buildup in throttle body or idle air control valve (IACV); faulty throttle position sensor (TPS) signal drift.
Fix: Clean throttle body and IACV; recalibrate throttle position using diagnostic tool per OEM procedure.
Coolant leaks from thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant puddles near front of engine, overheating, low coolant level, white exhaust smoke during warm-up.
Cause: Age-related cracking of plastic thermostat housing; thermal cycling fatigue in early-design units.
Fix: Replace thermostat and housing with updated metal-reinforced OEM part; inspect coolant hoses and bleed system properly.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2008-2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about DACIA K7J710

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA K7J710.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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