The Renault K4J 711 is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2008. It features a DOHC, 16‑valve design with multipoint fuel injection, balancing efficiency with adequate performance for compact vehicles. Output is 55 kW (75 PS) and 114 Nm, reflecting its role as an economical urban and suburban powertrain.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Clio II and Twingo II, the K4J 711 was engineered for light, responsive city driving and low running costs. Its character is defined by smooth, free-revving operation and modest fuel consumption. Emissions compliance was achieved through basic engine management and catalytic converter systems, meeting Euro 3 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or failure if not inspected. This issue, noted in Renault Service Bulletin MEC‑03‑01, is often linked to material fatigue in early production batches. Around 2004, Renault introduced a revised tensioner assembly to improve durability.
Production years 2000–2008 meet Euro 3 standards (French DRIRE Type Approval #DRIRE/K4J/001).
The Renault K4J 711 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact hatchbacks (2000-2008). It combines DOHC valvetrain with multipoint fuel injection to deliver smooth, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritises reliability and low-cost ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.5 mm × 70.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 114 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multipoint fuel injection (Siemens/Sagem) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Mineral or semi-synthetic 10W‑40 (API SG/SH) | |
| Dry weight | Not available in source documentation |
The DOHC design provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic failure. The early tensioner pulley (pre-2004) is prone to bearing wear; inspect for play or noise during belt changes. Use 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (API SG/SH) for optimal valve train protection. The engine is non-interference; a broken belt will not damage valves, but will leave the vehicle stranded.
Oil Specs: Requires 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic meeting API SG/SH (Renault Tech. Manual 7700). Full synthetic not required.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards for all production years (French DRIRE Type Approval #DRIRE/K4J/001).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is net, as installed in vehicle (Renault Tech. Manual 7700).
Renault Technical Manual 7700 (Engine K4J)
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Reference: K4J
French DRIRE Type Approval #DRIRE/K4J/001
The Renault K4J 711 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations in intake manifold routing and accessory bracket positioning between Clio and Twingo, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Tech. Manual 7700). The full code "K4J 711" should be clearly visible. Differentiate from the similar K4J 710 by power output (75 PS vs 98 PS) and ECU mapping. The 711 variant uses a single cam position sensor on the exhaust cam, while the 710 uses sensors on both cams. Visually, the engines are nearly identical.
The K4J 711's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Renault internal service data indicated this as a leading cause of roadside breakdowns for this engine family, while owner surveys consistently cite adherence to the 60,000 km belt change interval as the key to long-term reliability. Neglecting this service can strand the vehicle, though engine damage is unlikely due to its non-interference design.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2000-2008) and aggregated owner club failure reports (2005-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4J-711.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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