Engine Code

RENAULT K4J-750 engine (2001–2008) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault K4J 750 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 a balance of efficiency and responsiveness for compact vehicles. This compact unit produced 70 kW (95 PS) and 127 Nm of torque, with its double overhead camshaft layout enabling precise valve control for smooth operation.

Fitted primarily to the Clio II, Twingo II, and Modus, the K4J 750 was engineered for urban agility and economical commuting. Emissions compliance was met through electronic fuel injection and catalytic converter technology, achieving Euro 3 standards across its production run.

One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in high-mileage examples, leading to a loss of power and misfires. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note RTN‑03‑08, is often linked to inadequate oil changes or the use of incorrect oil viscosity, accelerating wear on the cam followers.

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2001–2008 meet Euro 3 standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, Annex I).

K4J-750 Technical Specifications

The Renault K4J 750 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for supermini and compact city cars (2001-2008). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a DOHC 16-valve valvetrain to deliver responsive low-end torque and frugal fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritises urban drivability and mechanical simplicity.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,390 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally Aspirated
Bore × stroke79.5 mm × 70.0 mm
Power output70 kW (95 PS) @ 5,750 rpm
Torque127 Nm @ 3,750 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (Magneti Marelli)
Emissions standardEuro 3
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemBelt-driven camshafts
Oil typeSemi-synthetic 10W-40 (ACEA A3/B3)
Dry weight95 kg
Practical Implications

The DOHC 16-valve design provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for city driving but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil and filter changes to prevent camshaft lobe wear. Using the specified 10W-40 semi-synthetic oil (ACEA A3/B3) is critical for lubricating the cam followers and hydraulic lifters. The timing belt must be replaced every 100,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first, to prevent catastrophic failure. The Magneti Marelli injection system is generally reliable but sensitive to low-quality fuel; always use 95 RON unleaded petrol.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires semi-synthetic 10W-40 meeting ACEA A3/B3 specification (Renault Owner's Manual). Modern low-viscosity oils are not suitable.

Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards for all production years (2001-2008) under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007.

Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across all applications (Renault PT-2005).

Primary Sources

Renault Technical Workshop Manual (RTM-K4J)

Renault Parts Catalogue (EPC Doc. K4J-750-01)

Renault Technical Note (RTN-03-08)

EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Annex I)

K4J-750 Compatible Models

The Renault K4J 750 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse, front-engine mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations for intake routing and accessory mounting. All applications are documented in OEM parts catalogues.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2001–2008
Models:
Clio II (B/C57)
Variants:
1.4 16V
View Source
Renault EPC Doc. K4J-750-01
Make:
Renault
Years:
2007–2008
Models:
Twingo II (C06)
Variants:
1.4 16V
View Source
Renault EPC Doc. K4J-750-01
Make:
Renault
Years:
2004–2008
Models:
Modus (C32)
Variants:
1.4 16V
View Source
Renault EPC Doc. K4J-750-01
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the engine block, near the gearbox flange (Renault RTM-K4J). The full code for this variant is "K4J 750". Visually, it is identifiable by its compact, all-aluminium construction, black plastic intake manifold, and the DOHC 16-valve cylinder head with twin camshaft covers. It lacks a turbocharger. Differentiate from the K4J 700 by its higher power output rating (95 PS vs 75 PS); the physical engine is otherwise identical.

Camshaft Wear Prevention

Issue:

Premature wear of exhaust camshaft lobes is a known failure mode, leading to misfires and power loss.

Evidence:

Renault Technical Note RTN-03-08

Prevention:

  • Strictly adhere to 15,000 km oil and filter change intervals using the specified 10W-40 semi-synthetic oil.
  • Avoid extended idling and ensure the engine reaches full operating temperature regularly.
Timing Belt Service

Evidence:

Renault Workshop Manual RTM-K4J

Requirement:

  • The timing belt is a critical wear item. Failure will result in severe engine damage as this is an interference engine.
  • Replace the belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys every 100,000 km or 5 years without exception.

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT K4J-750

The K4J 750's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to infrequent oil changes or the use of incorrect oil. Renault internal service data indicated this was a leading cause of top-end rebuilds for this model. Neglecting the timing belt replacement schedule poses a catastrophic risk due to its interference design.

Exhaust camshaft lobe wear
Symptoms: Engine misfire (especially under load), loss of power, rough idle, ticking noise from the cylinder head.
Cause: Accelerated wear due to insufficient lubrication, often from extended oil change intervals or use of incorrect oil viscosity (e.g., 5W-30 instead of 10W-40).
Fix: Replace the worn camshaft and corresponding hydraulic lifters/tappets. Flush the engine and refill with correct specification oil. Inspect oil pump pressure if wear is severe.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine will not start, loud clattering noise on attempted start, bent valves (if interference engine).
Cause: Age or mileage-related belt failure, or failure of the tensioner/idler pulley. This engine is interference, so belt failure causes immediate valve/piston contact.
Fix: Replace the entire timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, idler, water pump if driven by belt). Inspect valves and pistons for damage; a cylinder head rebuild is often necessary.
Coolant temperature sensor failure
Symptoms: Erratic temperature gauge, poor fuel economy, cold-start issues, engine overheating warning (false or real), check engine light.
Cause: The plastic sensor housing is prone to cracking and leaking coolant, or the internal thermistor fails due to age and heat cycling.
Fix: Replace the coolant temperature sensor with an OEM unit. Always replace the sealing washer and ensure the electrical connector is clean and secure.
Oil leaks from rocker cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil residue on the top/rear of the engine, burning oil smell, drips on the garage floor.
Cause: Age-hardened rubber gasket, over-tightening during previous service, or a warped rocker cover.
Fix: Replace the rocker cover gasket with an OEM part. Clean mating surfaces thoroughly and torque bolts to specification in correct sequence.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2001-2008) and historical service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about RENAULT K4J-750

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4J-750.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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