The Renault K4M 824 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 predictable, linear power delivery for urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to the Kaptur and Duster platforms, the K4M 824 was engineered for dependable, cost — effective performance in glob…
Production years 2016–2021 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Renault K4M 824 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact SUVs (2016-2021). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve head and variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 5 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 | 81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
Torque | 151 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
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 824 was used across Renault's Kaptur and Duster platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU calibrations for different body weights and regional emissions tuning-and no significant facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The K4M 824's primary documented reliability concern is variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals or contaminated oil. Renault internal service data indicated a notable number of solenoid replacements under warranty for 2017-2018 model year vehicles, while adherence to the RN0700 oil specification and schedule proved effective in mitigating the issue. Neglecting oil changes makes timely solenoid inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2016-2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
Generally, the K4M 824 is a robust and reliable engine. Its main known issue is the VVT solenoid, which Renault addressed with updated parts. 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 without major problems.
The most documented issue is VVT solenoid failure. Other frequent problems include ignition coil failures, coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing, and wear of the timing chain tensioner. These are covered in Renault service documentation and are generally straightforward to repair.
The K4M 824 was used in the Renault Kaptur (2016-2021) and the second-generation Duster (2016-2021), both badged as the '1.6 16V'. It was specifically developed for these SUV platforms in global markets.
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 an SUV. Expect around 9.0-10.0 L/100km (28-31 mpg UK) in mixed urban driving and 7.0-8.0 L/100km (35-40 mpg UK) on the highway in a Duster or Kaptur. Actual figures depend heavily on driving style, vehicle condition, and terrain.
Yes. The K4M 824 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 VVT system and 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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RENAULT Official Site
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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)
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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
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