The Renault K4M 748 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection, delivering outputs typically around 80 kW (109 PS) and 148 Nm of torque. Its simple, non‑turbocharged architecture prioritises reliability and cost‑effective ownership.
Fitted to models such as the Clio III, Mégane III, and Scénic III, the K4M 748 was engineered for dependable daily commuting and light family duties. It offers smooth, linear power delivery rather than outright performance. Emissions compliance for most units was achieved to meet Euro 4 standards.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, noted in Renault Technical Note MEC‑08‑012. This issue, often linked to specific lubrication regimes or oil quality, led to a revised camshaft profile and updated maintenance schedules for affected production periods.
Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2015 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K4M 748 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and family hatchbacks (2008-2015). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve head to deliver smooth, linear power and predictable drivability. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and some market‑specific Euro 5) 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 | 80 kW (109 PS) | |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2011); Euro 5 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable, linear power ideal for city and highway driving but lacks low-end torque for heavy loads. Strict adherence to 15,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using RN0700 (5W-40) is critical to prevent camshaft lobe wear, as highlighted in Renault Technical Note MEC-08-012. The timing belt must be replaced at 120,000 km or 5 years to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. Coolant should be replaced every 5 years to protect the aluminium block and head.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault SIB MEC-08-012). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2011 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2011-2015 models meet Euro 5 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault TIS Doc. K4M-001).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K4M-001, K4M-005
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB): MEC-08-012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Renault K4M 748 was used across Renault's B/C platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Scénic and revised exhaust manifolds in facelifted Mégane models-and from 2012 the Clio IV adopted a different engine family, creating interchange limits. 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 K4M-001). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('K' for K4M series). Visually, it can be identified by its black plastic intake manifold and the "1.6 16V" badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from later K4M variants: The K4M 748 uses a Siemens fuel injection system, while later models may use different ECUs. Service parts, particularly timing belts and camshafts, require verification against the engine's production date due to mid-cycle updates (Renault SIB MEC-08-012).
The K4M 748's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Renault internal data indicated a notable number of cases before 80,000 km, while owner reports frequently cite timing belt failure as a major concern if neglected. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect oil viscosity make adherence to the RN0700 specification critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2008-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4M-748.
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.
