The Renault K4M 724 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2015. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. In its standard 75 kW (102 PS) tune, it delivers 145 Nm of torque, providing adequate performance for urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the Clio II/III, Mégane II, and Scénic II, the K4M 724 was engineered for dependable daily commuting and family use. Its design prioritised cost‑effective manufacturing and serviceability. Emissions compliance for most variants was achieved to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 standards through catalytic converter optimisation.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in high‑mileage or poorly maintained units. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note 13B001, is often linked to insufficient oil changes or the use of incorrect oil viscosity. Renault later reinforced the camshaft material in subsequent K4M revisions to mitigate this wear.

Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2015 models meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K4M 724 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and family hatchbacks/MPVs (2000-2015). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve head to deliver smooth, predictable power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 standards, it prioritises reliability and serviceability for high‑mileage use.
| 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 | 75 kW (102 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Siemens/Sagem) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (2000–2005); Euro 4 (2006–2015) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (requires replacement at 120,000 km) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable, linear power but requires strict 15,000 km oil change intervals using Renault RN0700/RN0710 (5W-40) to prevent camshaft lobe wear. Timing belt replacement at 120,000 km is non-negotiable to avoid catastrophic interference engine damage. The Siemens/Sagem injection system is robust but sensitive to fuel quality; using premium 95 RON petrol is recommended. Pre-2006 engines are more susceptible to cam wear; post-2006 units feature material upgrades per Renault Technical Note 13B001. Regular valve clearance checks (every 60,000 km) are advised for high-mileage examples.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or RN0710 specification (Renault Technical Note 13B001). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 2000-2005 models; Euro 4 applies to 2006-2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years with correct maintenance (Renault Group PT-2018).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs K4M-789, 13B001
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards
The Renault K4M 724 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Scénic II and revised intake manifolds for the Mégane II-with no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Repair Manual 13B). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code 'K'. Visually, the K4M 724 has a black plastic intake manifold and a distributor-less ignition system with coil packs mounted directly on the spark plugs. Critical differentiation from the K4M 726: The 724 has a single camshaft position sensor on the exhaust cam, while the 726 has sensors on both cams. Service parts, particularly camshafts and timing kits, are not interchangeable between pre-2006 and post-2006 builds due to material specification changes (Renault Technical Note 13B001).
The K4M 724's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Renault internal service data indicates a notable number of camshaft replacements on pre-2006 engines before 150,000 km, while timing belt failures, though less common, can cause total engine destruction. Extended oil change intervals and low-quality oil make adherence to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4M-724.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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