The Renault K4M 720 is a 1,598 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 mid-range torque and fuel efficiency for compact vehicles. Its twin overhead camshafts enable precise valve control, contributing to smoother operation and better emissions control for its era.
Fitted primarily to the Mégane II (K/MK) and Scénic II (JK), the K4M 720 was engineered for reliable family transportation and versatile driving. Its character is defined by linear power delivery and modest output, suitable for mid-size 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 K4M-02, is often attributed to bearing fatigue under extended service intervals or exposure to engine heat.
Production years 2001–2006 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (EU Directive 98/69/EC).
The Renault K4M 720 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact family 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 | 1,598 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) | |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3,750 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 linear power curve ideal for daily commuting 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 K4M-02. 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 K4M-01, Service Bulletin K4M-02
EU Legislation: Directive 80/1269/EEC (Power Measurement), Directive 98/69/EC (Emissions)
Renault Group Parts & Technical Catalogue (PT-2004)
The Renault K4M 720 was used across Renault's Mégane II and Scénic 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 "K4M 720". Visually, it is identifiable by its aluminum block, plastic intake manifold, and prominent camshaft cover with "16V" branding. Differentiation from the similar K4J (1.4L) is by displacement and specific ancillary components; core architecture is shared. Service parts for the K4M family are generally interchangeable within the same model year range.
The K4M 720'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 K4M-720.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with RENAULT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
RENAULT Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
