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.

Production years 2001–2008 meet Euro 3 standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, Annex I).
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.
| 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) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 127 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Magneti Marelli) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Semi-synthetic 10W-40 (ACEA A3/B3) | |
| Dry weight | 95 kg |
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.
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).
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)
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.
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.
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.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2001-2008) and historical service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4J-750.
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