The Renault K4M 800 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2010. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form, it delivered approximately 75 kW (102 PS), providing adequate power for urban and highway driving.
Fitted to popular models like the Clio II, Mégane II, and Scénic II, the K4M 800 was engineered for reliability and everyday drivability. It offered a balance of fuel economy and responsive performance, meeting Euro 3 and Euro 4 emissions standards depending on the model year and market.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft and its lobes, particularly in higher-mileage engines. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note 8446A, is often attributed to insufficient lubrication under specific operating conditions. Renault later introduced revised camshaft profiles and updated lubrication recommendations to mitigate the problem.
Production years 2000–2005 generally meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2010 models typically comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K4M 800 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and family vehicles (2000-2010). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with DOHC 16-valve architecture to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 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 | 75 kW (102 PS) | |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Magneti Marelli) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre‑2006); Euro 4 (2006 onwards) | |
| 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 offers predictable, linear power ideal for daily commuting but lacks low-end torque for heavy loads. Strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval is critical to prevent catastrophic engine failure. Renault RN0700 (5W-40) oil is specified to ensure optimal lubrication, particularly for the camshaft journals. The Magneti Marelli injection system is robust but requires clean fuel; using substandard petrol can lead to injector clogging and misfires. Pre-2006 models should have their exhaust camshafts inspected during major services, especially if a tapping noise is present at idle (Renault Technical Note 8446A).
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault SIB K4M-11 02 17). Equivalent ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable if RN0700 is unavailable.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2006 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). 2006 onwards models are certified to Euro 4.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Renault TIS Doc. K4M-A26015).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K4M-A24680, K4M-A25142, K4M-A25631, SIB K4M-11 02 17
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault K4M 800 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-such as different intake manifolds for the Clio and Scénic-but no major facelift revisions that created significant 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-A24890). The engine code will read "K4M 800" or "K4M 7XX" (where XX denotes a specific variant). Visually, it can be identified by its black plastic camshaft cover with "16V" embossed on it. Critical differentiation from the similar K4M 700: The K4M 800 has a slightly higher power output (102 PS vs 98 PS) and was introduced later. Service parts, particularly gaskets and sensors, are generally interchangeable within the K4M family but verify part numbers using the VIN for absolute compatibility.
The K4M 800's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage, pre-2004 engines. Renault internal service data indicated a notable number of camshaft replacements were required before 150,000 km. Extended oil change intervals and use of incorrect oil viscosity can accelerate this wear, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2003-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4M-800.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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