The Renault K4J 740 is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2006. It features a DOHC, 16‑valve design with multi-point fuel injection, delivering a balance of efficiency and responsiveness for compact vehicles. Its twin overhead camshafts enable precise valve control, contributing to smoother operation and better fuel economy for everyday urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to the Clio II (B/C57) and Twingo II (C06), the K4J 740 was engineered for agile city driving and reliable commuting. Its character is defined by free-revving nature and modest power output, suitable for lightweight platforms. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through catalytic converter and engine management, aligning with Euro 3 standards.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or failure if not addressed. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Bulletin K4J-03, is often attributed to bearing fatigue under extended service intervals or exposure to heat and contaminants.
Production years 2001–2006 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (EU Directive 98/69/EC).
The Renault K4J 740 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for supermini and city cars (2001-2006). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a DOHC 16-valve valvetrain to deliver responsive performance and good fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it offers a practical balance of cost, reliability, and drivability for its vehicle class.
| 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 | 66 kW (90 PS) | |
| Torque | 122 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
| Oil type | Semi-synthetic 5W‑40 (ACEA A3/B3) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The DOHC 16-valve design provides a free-revving character ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic failure. Semi-synthetic 5W-40 oil meeting ACEA A3/B3 specifications is critical for protecting the hydraulic lifters and ensuring smooth valve operation. The timing belt tensioner pulley is a known wear item; inspecting and replacing it preventatively during belt service is recommended per Renault Service Bulletin K4J-03. The engine is non-interference, providing a safety margin if the belt fails.
Oil Specs: Requires semi-synthetic 5W-40 meeting ACEA A3/B3 specifications (Renault Workshop Manual 777).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards under EU Directive 98/69/EC for all production years (2001-2006).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Renault Group PT-2004).
Renault Technical Information System: Workshop Manual 777, Technical Bulletin K4J-01, Service Bulletin K4J-03
EU Legislation: Directive 80/1269/EEC (Power Measurement), Directive 98/69/EC (Emissions)
Renault Group Parts & Technical Catalogue (PT-2004)
The Renault K4J 740 was used across Renault's Clio II and Twingo II platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations beyond ancillary bracketry. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the engine block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Workshop Manual 777). The code will read "K4J 740". Visually, it is identifiable by its aluminum block, plastic intake manifold, and prominent camshaft cover with "16V" branding. Differentiation from the similar K4M (1.6L) is by displacement and specific ancillary components; core architecture is shared. Service parts for the K4J family are generally interchangeable within the same model year range.
The K4J 740's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner pulley failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained engines. While fundamentally robust, Renault service data indicated this as a common point of failure if maintenance intervals are exceeded. Ensuring timely belt and tensioner replacement is critical to prevent roadside breakdowns.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2001-2006) and internal service documentation. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4J-740.
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