The Renault K4M 745 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2010. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form, it delivered 79 kW (107 PS) and 148 Nm of torque, providing a balance of urban agility and highway capability.
Fitted to models such as the Clio II, Mégane II, and Scénic II, the K4M 745 was engineered for responsive daily driving and fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control and a three‑way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 3 standards for its primary production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, potentially leading to rough running and misfires. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 0456, is often linked to inadequate lubrication under specific operating conditions. Later production batches incorporated revised camshaft metallurgy to address this.
Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2010 models may have Euro 4 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K4M 745 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2000-2010). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve head to deliver responsive low‑to‑mid range power and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 3 (and some market‑specific Euro 4) standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| 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 (Siemens) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre‑2006); Euro 4 depending on market | |
| 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 a linear power delivery suitable for city and highway use but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using RN0700 specification to prevent camshaft lobe wear. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected for tensioner wear at 120,000 km. The Siemens fuel injection system is reliable but sensitive to poor fuel quality; use of premium unleaded is recommended. The catalytic converter is integrated with the exhaust manifold, making replacement costly if damaged.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault Owner's Manual Ref. 77 11 308 543). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2006 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2006-2010 models meet Euro 4 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output figures are for standard atmospheric conditions (Renault TIS Doc. MEC 0456).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs MEC 0456, MEC 1234
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Renault K4M 745 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-creating minor service part variations. 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 TIS MEC 0456). The full engine designation is 'K4M 745'. Visually, it can be identified by its black plastic cam cover with '16V' embossed on top. Critical differentiation from the similar K4M 746: The 745 uses a Siemens fuel injection ECU, while the 746 uses a Bosch system. Service parts, particularly for the ignition and fuel systems, are not always interchangeable between 745 and 746 variants.
The K4M 745's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Renault internal service data indicated a notable number of camshaft replacements under warranty for pre-2004 units, while owner reports frequently cite ignition coil failures as a secondary concern. Adherence to correct oil specification and service intervals is critical for long-term camshaft health.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2003-2010) and owner-reported failure data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4M-745.
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.
