The Dacia K7M 702 is a 1,598 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2013. It was developed by Renault for use across its entry-level vehicle lineup and adopted by Dacia after the brand's acquisition. This SOHC, 8-valve unit features multi-point fuel injection (MPi) and was designed for durability and low running costs. It produces 59 kW (80 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 128 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, offering adequate performance for urban and regional driving.
Fitted primarily to the Dacia Logan, as well as the Sandero and Symbol, the K7M 702 was engineered for affordability and ease of maintenance in cost-sensitive markets. Its design prioritizes mechanical simplicity and fuel economy over high performance or refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 3 compliance for earlier models and Euro 4 on revised post-2006 builds.
One documented concern is cylinder head warping under sustained high-load operation or coolant neglect, highlighted in Renault Service Bulletin TSB 036/2009. This issue stems from the aluminium head’s sensitivity to thermal cycling and improper torque sequencing during head bolt replacement. From 2006, revised cooling system components and updated assembly procedures were introduced to reduce failure incidence.
Production years 1998–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2013 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Dacia K7M 702 is a 1,598 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for budget-oriented vehicles (1998–2013). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver reliable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances durability with cost-effective ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded RON 95) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 83.6 mm | |
| Power output | 59 kW (80 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 128 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPi) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2006); Euro 4 (2006–2013) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (renew every 120,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (ACEA A3/B3) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable, linear throttle response ideal for city driving but lacks high-speed overtaking power. Adherence to the 120,000 km timing belt replacement interval is critical, as the K7M 702 is an interference engine. Use of SAE 10W-40 oil meeting ACEA A3/B3 standards ensures adequate valve train lubrication under high-temperature conditions. Coolant condition and level must be monitored to prevent head warping, particularly in hot climates or stop-start traffic. Post-2006 models benefit from revised thermostat and water pump designs, improving thermal management. Regular air and fuel filter changes help maintain fuel economy and prevent injector clogging in low-quality fuel environments.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 (ACEA A3/B3) specification (Renault SIB 036/2009). Compatible with mineral or semi-synthetic oils.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2006 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 4 compliance from 2006 onward varies by market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities due to conservative tuning (Renault TIS Doc. M01-1120).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M01-1120, R12-4501, SIB 036/2009
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Methods of measurement of fuel consumption and range
The Dacia K7M 702 was used across Dacia's Logan/Sandero platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Renault and Nissan global models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the Logan and revised exhaust manifolds in the Symbol-and from 2006 the facelifted Logan Phase II adopted revised engine management software, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Renault's Clio II and Nissan's Almera to use identical K7M units. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Renault TIS M01-1125). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for K7M 702). Pre-2006 models have a black plastic intake manifold with a chrome trim ring; post-2006 units use a plain black manifold. Critical differentiation from K7M 710: K7M 702 has a single oxygen sensor and no EGR valve. Service parts require model-year verification - timing belts for pre-2006 Logan models are incompatible with Sandero applications due to pulley diameter differences (Renault SIB 041/2007).
The K7M 702's primary reliability risk is cylinder head warping on high-mileage or poorly maintained units, with elevated incidence in hot climates and stop-start urban use. Renault internal quality reports from 2010 indicated a measurable failure rate in pre-2006 engines exceeding 100,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows cooling system neglect as a top cause of engine-related failures in Dacia models. Infrequent coolant changes and extended timing belt intervals increase thermal and mechanical stress, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2005-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA K7M702.
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