The Renault K4J 715 is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2008. It features a DOHC, 16‑valve design with multi‑point fuel injection, prioritising smoothness and urban drivability. In standard form, it delivered approximately 70 kW (95 PS) and 127 Nm of torque, making it suitable for compact hatchbacks and city cars.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Clio II and Twingo II models, the K4J 715 was engineered for responsive low‑end torque and quiet operation in stop‑start traffic. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic engine management and a three‑way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 3 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in high‑mileage or poorly maintained units. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Bulletin ME‑03‑01, is often linked to inadequate oil changes or the use of incorrect viscosity. Renault addressed this in later K4M variants with revised camshaft metallurgy and oiling passages.
Production years 2000–2008 meet Euro 3 emissions standards for petrol engines (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Renault K4J 715 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact hatchbacks (2000-2008). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve head to deliver smooth, linear power and quiet urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with low running costs.
| 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) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 127 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point 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 | Semi‑synthetic 10W‑40 (ACEA A3/B3) | |
| Dry weight | Not Available |
The DOHC 16-valve design provides smooth, refined power delivery ideal for city driving but demands strict 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft lobe wear. Use of semi-synthetic 10W-40 oil meeting ACEA A3/B3 is critical for lubrication under stop-start conditions. The timing belt must be replaced every 80,000 km or 5 years to prevent catastrophic failure. The Siemens/Sagem injection system is generally robust but requires clean fuel and periodic injector cleaning to maintain optimal mixture. Pre-2004 units are most susceptible to cam wear per Renault Service Bulletin ME-03-01.
Oil Specs: Requires semi-synthetic 10W-40 oil meeting ACEA A3/B3 specification (Renault Owner's Manual 2003).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards for all production years (2000-2008) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across verified applications (Renault Group PT-2005).
Renault Technical Information System: Manual TM-K4J
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue): Doc. R-K4J-001
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
The Renault K4J 715 was used across Renault's B/C‑segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor variations in intake manifolds and engine mounts-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 boss on the front face of the block, near the gearbox flange or on the cylinder head (Renault TM-K4J). The code will read "K4J 715" or a very similar variant. Visually, it is identifiable by its aluminium cylinder head with a black plastic cam cover, the presence of two camshafts, and the absence of a turbocharger. Differentiation from the larger K4M 1.6L is clear by displacement badging and engine size.
The K4J 715's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to infrequent oil changes or urban driving cycles. Renault service data from 2003 indicates this was a notable warranty issue for early production engines. Neglecting oil maintenance makes adherence to the 10,000 km interval critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2000-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (historical data). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4J-715.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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RENAULT Official Site
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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)
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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.
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