The Renault K4M 740 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2008. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. This naturally aspirated unit delivered 79 kW (107 PS) and 148 Nm of torque, offering a balance of responsiveness and everyday drivability for its vehicle class.
Fitted to popular models like the Mégane II, Scénic II, and Laguna II, the K4M 740 was engineered for reliable, economical urban and highway driving. Emissions compliance for its production period was primarily achieved through precise fuel metering and catalytic conversion, meeting Euro 3 standards.
One documented service concern involves premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, potentially leading to reduced valve lift and a loss of power. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Bulletin MEG‑02‑2005, is often attributed to localized lubrication deficiencies under specific operating conditions. Later K4M variants incorporated revised camshaft metallurgy.
Production years 2000–2008 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K4M 740 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2000-2008). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritizes reliability and cost-effective ownership.
| 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 | 79 kW (107 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The DOHC design provides good high-RPM performance but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain camshaft and chain longevity. Renault RN0700 (5W-40) oil is specified to ensure adequate film strength for the valvetrain. Vehicles used predominantly for short trips should have oil levels checked more frequently. The timing chain is designed for the engine's life but tensioner wear can occur; listen for rattles at startup. Exhaust camshaft wear, per SIB MEG-02-2005, is a known issue on early units, warranting inspection if power loss is noted.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 specification (Renault Owner's Manual). ACEA A3/B4 is the underlying standard.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2000-2008 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output is consistent across specified fuel grades (Renault TIS Doc. K4M-001).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K4M-001, K4M-002
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB): MEG-02-2005
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Renault K4M 740 was used across Renault's Mégane II and Scénic II platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU mapping differences for the Laguna II-creating no significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS K4M-001). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code 'K4M'. Visually, the engine has a black plastic cam cover with '16V' embossed. Differentiation from later K4M 748/750: The K4M 740 uses a cable-operated throttle body, while later variants use electronic throttle control (drive-by-wire).
The K4M 740's primary documented concern is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with higher incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Renault internal data indicated a measurable rate of camshaft replacement for affected early-build engines, while general owner feedback highlights ignition coil failures as a common electrical fault. Inadequate oil changes can accelerate cam wear, making adherence to the specified interval critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2003-2007) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4M-740.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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