The Land Rover K4F is a 1,796 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2006. It was developed as part of the K-Series evolution for use in compact and mid-size Land Rover vehicles, featuring multi-point fuel injection, a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration, and 16 valves. It delivered 96 kW (131 PS) and 175 Nm of torque, providing adequate performance for light off-road and urban applications.
Fitted to models such as the Freelander (L314) and Discovery Series II (L319), the K4F was engineered to balance fuel efficiency with low-end responsiveness in entry-level trims. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda feedback control, enabling Euro 3 standard certification across its production run for European markets.
One documented concern is cylinder head cracking, particularly on early production units, which can lead to coolant loss and overheating. This issue, referenced in Land Rover Technical Service Bulletin TSB 01/024, is attributed to thermal stress and inadequate coolant maintenance. Later revisions incorporated improved head casting materials and revised thermostat calibration to mitigate failure risks.
Production years 2001–2006 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Land Rover K4F is a 1,796 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact SUVs (2001-2006). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a DOHC 16-valve layout to deliver responsive urban performance and light-duty off-road capability. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 96 kW (131 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 100,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL/CF | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable throttle response but limited high-RPM power, making it suitable for urban and light off-road use. Adherence to the 100,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement interval is critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SL/CF specifications ensures adequate valve train and bearing protection under varied operating conditions. Coolant system integrity must be maintained to avoid thermal stress-induced head cracking. Pre-2003 units should be inspected for early head casting flaws per Land Rover TSB 01/024, and thermostat operation verified during routine service. The three-way catalytic converter requires unleaded petrol meeting EN 228 to prevent poisoning and emissions failure.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40, API SL/CF specification (Land Rover SIB 01/024). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all K4F models (2001–2006) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across production years with no market-specific variants.
Land Rover Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B12540, B12789, SIB 01/024
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:2002 Road vehicles — Passenger cars — Test method for the measurement of net power
The Land Rover K4F was used across Land Rover's L314/L319 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Rover passenger vehicles. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake manifold tuning in the Freelander and revised engine mounts in the Discovery-and from 2004 the facelifted Freelander models adopted updated emissions calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Rover's 75 and Streetwise to use the same base engine. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Land Rover TIS B12560). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for K4F series). Pre-2003 models have a green valve cover with ribbed texture; post-2003 units use a smooth black cover. Critical differentiation from K-Series 1.8L variants: K4F uses a single-row timing belt with external tensioner, while high-performance variants use a dual-row system. Service parts require production date verification - cylinder head gaskets for pre-2003 models are not compatible with later revisions due to casting changes (Land Rover TSB 01/024).
The K4F's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking, with elevated incidence in high-temperature or poorly maintained cooling systems. Internal Land Rover service reports from 2004 indicated a significant number of pre-2003 units required head replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show coolant system faults as a leading cause of failure in urban-driven examples. Extended service intervals and use of non-OEM coolant increase thermal stress, making cooling system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (2001-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LAND-ROVER K4F.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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LAND-ROVER Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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