The Renault K4J 730 is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2008. It features a DOHC, 16‑valve design with multi‑point fuel injection, delivering responsive performance for its class. Its lightweight aluminium block construction prioritised efficiency and refinement, making it suitable for compact city cars and superminis.
Fitted primarily to the Clio II, Twingo II, and Modus platforms, the K4J 730 was engineered for agile urban driving and low running costs. Emissions compliance evolved during its lifecycle, with later variants meeting Euro 3 standards through improved engine management and catalytic converter technology.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in high-mileage examples, as noted in Renault Technical Note K4J/99/07. This issue is often linked to inadequate lubrication or extended oil change intervals. Production ceased in 2008 with the phase-out of applicable platforms.
Production years 1996–2000 meet Euro 2 standards; 2001–2008 models meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/K4J).
The Renault K4J 730 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact hatchbacks and city cars (1996-2008). It combines dual overhead camshafts with multi-point fuel injection to deliver lively throttle response and efficient operation. Designed to meet evolving Euro 2 and Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances urban agility with everyday reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.8 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 70 kW (95 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 128 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens Sirius 32 multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-2001); Euro 3 (2001–2008) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Synthetic 5W‑40 (ACEA A3/B4) | |
| Dry weight | Not available in source documentation |
The DOHC 16-valve layout provides crisp throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. Synthetic 5W-40 oil (ACEA A3/B4) is critical due to its high-temperature stability protecting camshaft lobes. Extended oil change intervals can accelerate cam lobe wear, especially on short trips. The Siemens Sirius 32 ECU is generally robust but sensitive to poor electrical grounds; ensure battery and earth strap connections are clean. Pre-2001 models lack OBD-II diagnostics; post-2001 units feature full EOBD compliance per VCA Type Approval.
Oil Specs: Requires synthetic 5W-40 (ACEA A3/B4) specification (Renault Workshop Manual 822). Mineral oils are not recommended.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to 1996-2000 models; Euro 3 applies to 2001-2008 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/K4J).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards for net power (Renault Group PT-2005). Figures represent maximum output.
Renault Technical Information System: Workshop Manual 822, Technical Note K4J/99/07
Renault EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) Ref. K4J-730
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code - Net Power
The Renault K4J 730 was used across Renault's Clio II/Twingo II platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts for the Modus—and from 2001 the introduction of EOBD-compliant ECUs, creating diagnostic tool compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange and below the exhaust manifold (Renault Workshop Manual 822). The code will read "K4J 730". Visual identification: Aluminium block, DOHC design with two rocker covers, and a prominent black plastic intake manifold. Differentiate from the similar K4M (1.6L) by displacement badge or bore measurement. Critical differentiation: Pre-2001 models use a different ECU connector (round 35-pin) versus post-2001 EOBD models (trapezoidal 16-pin OBD-II port). Timing belt kits are identical across all K4J 730 variants.
The K4J 730's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips or neglected oil changes. Renault internal service data indicated this was a leading cause of top-end rebuilds for high-mileage examples, while its simple belt-driven design otherwise proved very durable. Maintaining correct oil specification and change intervals is paramount to preventing this critical failure.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1999-2008) and internal service reports. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4J-730.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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