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 perfo…
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 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.
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.
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Generally yes, the K4M 742 is a robust engine. The main caveat is the potential for exhaust camshaft wear in early models (pre-2004), which Renault addressed with a revised part. With strict adherence to oil changes using RN0700 5W-40 and addressing common ancillary issues like coils and thermostats, these engines can easily surpass 200,000 km.
The most documented issue is exhaust camshaft lobe wear (early builds). Other frequent problems include ignition coil failures, coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing, and erratic idle caused by a faulty Idle Air Control valve. These are covered in Renault service documentation.
The K4M 742 was primarily used in the first phase (pre-facelift) of the Renault Mégane II (2002-2006) and Scénic II (2003-2006), badged as the '1.6 16V'. It was not used in the Clio or other smaller Renault platforms of that era.
Minor gains are possible. An ECU remap might yield 5-10 kW extra by optimizing ignition and fuel maps. Significant power increases are limited by the naturally aspirated design and would require forced induction, which is complex and costly. Most owners focus on maintenance for longevity rather than tuning.
Real-world fuel economy is reasonable for its era. Expect around 8.5-9.5 L/100km (30-33 mpg UK) in mixed urban driving and 6.5-7.5 L/100km (38-43 mpg UK) on the highway in a Mégane II. Actual figures depend heavily on driving style and vehicle condition.
Yes. The K4M 742 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing severe internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable with proper maintenance.
Renault mandates oil meeting the RN0700 specification, typically a 5W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic. Using this specific oil is crucial, especially for protecting the camshafts. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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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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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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