Engine Code

Renault K4M-813 Engine (2016–2021) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault K4M 813 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2021. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. This naturally aspirated unit delivered 81 kW (110 PS) and 151 Nm of torque, offering a focus on fuel efficiency and low emissions for its final production phase.

Fitted to models like the Mégane IV and Scénic IV, the K4M 813 was engineered for quiet, economical urban commuting and relaxe

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2016–2021 meet Euro 6b/6c standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).

Renault K4M-813 Technical Specifications

The Renault K4M 813 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact models (2016-2021). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it prioritizes low emissions and cost-effective ownership for daily commuting.

ParameterValueSource
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
81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque
151 Nm @ 4,250 rpm
Fuel system
Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic) with electronic throttle
Emissions standard
Euro 6b/6c
Compression ratio
9.8:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
Renault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight
112 kg

Renault K4M-813 Compatible Models

The Renault K4M 813 was used across Renault's Mégane IV and Scénic IV platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU calibration updates for emissions compliance, creating no significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2016–2021
Models:
Mégane IV
Variants:
1.6 16V
View Source
Renault Group PT-2022
Make:
Renault
Years:
2016–2021
Models:
Scénic IV
Variants:
1.6 16V
View Source
Renault Group PT-2022

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT K4M-813 Compatible Models

The K4M 813's primary documented concern is electronic throttle body faults, similar to its predecessor, with higher incidence in vehicles exposed to dusty environments. Renault internal data indicated a measurable rate of throttle body replacement for affected units, while general owner feedback highlights ignition coil failures as a common electrical fault. The change to 5W-30 oil requires strict adherence to intervals to maintain engine protection.

Electronic throttle body faults
Symptoms: Erratic idle, hesitation on acceleration, illuminated engine management light, vehicle entering limp-home mode.
Cause: Contamination of the throttle plate or position sensor, or failure of the internal electric motor due to dust ingress or wear.
Fix: Clean the throttle body or replace it with a new OEM unit; perform electronic adaptation procedure using a diagnostic scanner.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Engine misfire (often on one cylinder), rough running, reduced power, engine management light with misfire codes.
Cause: Internal breakdown of the coil's insulation or primary/secondary windings due to heat cycling and age.
Fix: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s) with genuine Renault units; inspect spark plugs for fouling or excessive gap.
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid failure
Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, rattling noise from the top of the engine, engine management light with camshaft position codes.
Cause: Clogging of the solenoid's internal filter or mechanical failure of the solenoid valve, preventing proper oil pressure control to the VVT phaser.
Fix: Replace the faulty VVT solenoid with a new OEM part; flush the engine oil to remove any debris that may have caused the clog.
PCV valve failure
Symptoms: Whistling or hissing noise from the engine, oil leaks from seals, rough idle, increased oil consumption.
Cause: The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve becomes stuck open or closed due to carbon buildup or mechanical wear, leading to improper crankcase pressure regulation.
Fix: Replace the PCV valve assembly with a new OEM unit; inspect associated hoses for cracks or blockages.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2016-2021) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT K4M-813 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The K4M 813 is generally very reliable, representing the final and most refined iteration of the K4M engine family. Its main weaknesses are the electronic throttle body and ignition coils, common to many modern engines. With regular maintenance and using the correct RN0710 5W-30 oil, it is a dependable and long-lasting engine.

The most common issues are electronic throttle body faults, ignition coil failures, Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoid clogging, and PCV valve failure. These are well-documented in Renault service information and common repair guides. The switch to 5W-30 oil also requires strict adherence to service intervals.

The K4M 813 1.6L 16V petrol engine was used exclusively in the fourth generation of the Mégane (2016-2021) and Scénic (2016-2021). It was not fitted to the Duster or any Dacia/Nissan models, marking it as a late-model, emissions-focused variant for Renault's core European lineup.

Modest gains are possible. An ECU remap can typically yield an extra 5-8 kW by optimizing ignition and fuel maps. However, due to its focus on emissions and economy, the tuning potential is more limited than earlier, higher-compression K4M variants. Significant power increases are not recommended without internal modifications.

Fuel economy is excellent for its class. Expect around 7.8 L/100km in city driving and 5.2 L/100km on the highway in a Mégane IV, translating to approximately 36 mpg UK combined. This improvement over earlier K4M engines is due to the lower viscosity oil, revised engine mapping, and integrated exhaust manifold.

Yes. The K4M engine family is an interference design. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing severe internal engine damage requiring a major rebuild.

Renault specifies oil meeting the RN0710 standard, a 5W-30 low-SAPS (Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, Sulphur) synthetic grade. This is critical for protecting the emissions system, particularly the catalytic converter. The service interval is generally 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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.

Sourcing Policy

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.

Primary Sources

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.

Regulatory Context

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.

Methodology

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

Copyright & Legal

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

Data Privacy

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

Trademarks

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.

Commercial Disclosure

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.

Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

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.