The Renault K4M 708 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1999 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 77 kW (105 PS) and 148 Nm of torque, making it suitable for compact hatchbacks and small SUVs.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Mégane II, Scénic II, and Laguna II models, the K4M 708 was engineered for…
Production years 1999–2008 meet Euro 3 emissions standards for petrol engines (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The Renault K4M 708 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (1999-2008). 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 | 1,598 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 79.5 mm × 80.5 mm | |
Power output | 77 kW (105 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
Torque | 148 Nm @ 3,750 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 Renault K4M 708 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.
The K4M 708'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 2002 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 (1999-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (historical data). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The K4M 708 is generally reliable if its two main weaknesses are addressed: strict oil changes every 10,000 km to prevent cam wear, and timely timing belt replacement every 80,000 km. With this maintenance, these engines can easily surpass 200,000 km. Neglecting either can lead to expensive repairs.
The most critical issue is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, often due to poor oil maintenance. Other frequent problems include timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule, faulty coolant temperature sensors causing running issues, and dirty or failed idle air control valves leading to rough idling.
The K4M 708 1.6L petrol engine was fitted to the second-generation Renault Mégane (2002-2008), the second-generation Scénic (2003-2008), and the first phase of the second-generation Laguna (2001-2005) in various trim levels.
Minor power gains are possible. A simple ECU remap can yield 5-10 kW, and intake/exhaust modifications can add a little more. However, the engine's internals and standard ECU are not designed for significant power increases. Tuning is best suited for improving throttle response rather than large power gains.
Fuel economy is good for its era and class. Expect figures around 7.0-8.0 L/100km (35-40 mpg UK) in combined driving for a Renault Mégane II. Its strength is urban efficiency, where its light weight and responsive nature shine, though highway cruising is less economical than modern engines.
Yes. The K4M 708 is an interference engine. If the timing belt fails or jumps teeth, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing severe and expensive internal engine damage. This makes adhering to the 80,000 km/5-year replacement schedule absolutely critical.
Renault specified a semi-synthetic 10W-40 engine oil meeting ACEA A3/B3 standards for the K4M 708. Using the correct viscosity and specification is vital to prevent camshaft wear. Regular changes every 10,000 km are non-negotiable for long-term reliability.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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