The Renault K4J 714 is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2008. It features a DOHC, 16‑valve design with multi‑point fuel injection, delivering responsive performance for its class. This compact engine prioritised refinement and urban drivability, making it suitable for superminis and small family cars.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Clio II and Twingo II, the K4J 714 was engineered for agile, economical city driving and reliable daily service. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through electronic engine management and catalytic converters, aligning with Euro 3 and Euro 4 standards depending on model year and market.
One documented characteristic is susceptibility to timing belt failure if not replaced at recommended intervals, which can lead to severe internal damage. This maintenance-critical item, referenced in Renault's service schedules, underscores the importance of adhering to the 5-year or 120,000 km replacement guideline. The K4J series was succeeded by updated variants with variable valve timing.
Production years 2001–2005 typically meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2008 models meet Euro 4 depending on market (French RTAC Homologation).
The Renault K4J 714 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for superminis and city cars (2001-2008). It combines multi-point fuel injection with dual overhead camshafts to deliver smooth, responsive performance ideal for urban environments. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with fuel efficiency.
| 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 | 70 kW (95 PS) | |
| Torque | 122 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Magneti Marelli IAW 7.3) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (2001–2005); Euro 4 (2006–2008) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts (interference design) | |
| Oil type | Synthetic 5W‑40 (ACEA A3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The DOHC 16-valve design provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for city driving but demands strict adherence to the 5-year/120,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic engine failure. Using the specified 5W-40 synthetic oil is critical for valve train protection. The Magneti Marelli ECU requires precise sensor calibration. Ignition coils are a common wear item; symptoms include misfires and rough idle.
Oil Specs: Requires synthetic 5W-40 meeting ACEA A3/B4 specification (Renault TM 77 11 306 800).
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 2001-2005 models; Euro 4 for 2006-2008 (French RTAC Homologation).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is net power at the flywheel (Renault TM 77 11 306 800).
Renault Technical Manual 77 11 306 800
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) - Engine Code K4J
French RTAC Homologation Records
The Renault K4J 714 was used across Renault's Clio II and Twingo II platforms with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-primarily related to accessory mounting and exhaust routing-and no significant facelift revisions occurred during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the cylinder block, typically near the gearbox flange or on the front face (Renault TM 77 11 306 800). The full code "K4J 714" should be clearly visible. Visually, it is identifiable by its aluminium cylinder head, plastic intake manifold, and the prominent Magneti Marelli IAW 7.3 ECU box mounted on the engine's right side. Differentiate from 8-valve K4J variants by the 16-valve cylinder head and dual camshaft covers.
The K4J 714's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure, which can cause catastrophic engine damage if neglected. Renault service data indicates a significant portion of failures occur in vehicles exceeding the 120,000 km or 5-year replacement interval. Urban driving with frequent short trips can accelerate belt aging, making strict adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical manuals (2000s) and aggregated European workshop failure reports (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4J-714.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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