The Renault K4M 742 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 primarily to the Mégane II and Scénic II platforms, the K4M 742 was engineered for dependable urban and highway performance. Emissions compliance was managed through a closed-loop fuel system and catalytic converter, meeting Euro 3 standards for its primary production period.
One documented service concern involves premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in high-mileage examples. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEG‑02‑2005, is often associated with specific lubrication regimes or extended service intervals. Renault later introduced revised camshaft materials and updated maintenance schedules to address longevity.
Production years 2000–2008 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K4M 742 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact family vehicles (2000-2008). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve head 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) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| 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 | Chain‑driven (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable, linear power ideal for daily commuting but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft lobe wear. Renault RN0700 (5W-40) oil is critical due to its specific additive package protecting the valvetrain. Extended idling or frequent short trips should be minimized to ensure proper engine warm-up and lubrication. The timing chain is designed for longevity but should be inspected for tension and noise at major services. The exhaust camshaft issue primarily affected early builds; later units or those with the revised camshaft per Technical Note MEG-02-2005 show improved durability.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (ACEA A3/B4) specification (Renault Service Manual 60A).
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2000–2008 K4M 742 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault Group PT-2005).
Renault Technical Information System: Service Manual 60A, Technical Note MEG-02-2005
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards
The Renault K4M 742 was used across Renault's Mégane II and Scénic II platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU calibrations for different body weights-and no significant facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Service Manual 60A). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code 'K'. Visually, the K4M 742 can be identified by its black plastic intake manifold and the "1.6 16V" badge on the engine cover. Differentiation from other K4M variants (like the 748) is primarily through the engine code stamp and ECU part number. Service parts for the K4M 742 are generally compatible across Mégane II and Scénic II applications from this era.
The K4M 742's primary documented reliability concern is exhaust camshaft lobe wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals or frequent short trips. Renault internal service data indicated a notable number of camshaft replacements under warranty for 2002-2003 model year vehicles, while adherence to the RN0700 oil specification and schedule proved effective in mitigating the issue. Neglecting oil changes or using incorrect viscosity makes timely camshaft inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2003-2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4M-742.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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