The Renault K4M 838 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection, delivering outputs of 80 kW (109 PS) and 148 Nm of torque. Its cast iron block provides durability for everyday urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the Clio IV facelift, Captur facelift, and Kadjar, the K4M 838 was engineered for responsive performance and fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance for most units was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 6 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in higher‑mileage engines, as noted in Renault Technical Note MEG‑15‑021. This wear is often attributed to inadequate lubrication under sustained high‑RPM conditions. Renault addressed this in subsequent K4M variants with revised camshaft metallurgy.
All production years (2015–2020) meet Euro 6 compliance (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Renault K4M 838 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and crossover vehicles (2015-2020). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve architecture to deliver responsive performance and good fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it offers a balance of reliability and efficiency for daily driving.
| 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) @ 5,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (requires replacement at 120,000 km) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers linear power delivery ideal for city commuting but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. Renault RN0700 (5W‑40) oil is critical for protecting valve train components, particularly the exhaust camshaft. Vehicles used for frequent short trips should have oil changes shortened to 10,000 km to combat fuel dilution. The exhaust camshaft lobe wear issue, documented in Technical Note MEG‑15‑021, is most prevalent in engines exceeding 150,000 km without proper maintenance. Regular valve clearance checks are recommended for high‑mileage engines.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 specification (Renault Service Manual 60R). Equivalent ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable if RN0700 is unavailable.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2015–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output figures are for the standard 80 kW variant (Renault Group PT‑2015).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs MEG‑15‑021, Service Manual 60R
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
UNECE Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Renault K4M 838 was used across Renault's B/C‑segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Kadjar and revised intake manifolds for the facelifted Clio IV-creating minor part number 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 Service Manual 60R). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine type ('K' for K4M family). All K4M 838 units feature individual coil-on-plug ignition units. Critical differentiation from the K4M 790: The 838 variant has a grey plastic intake manifold across all model years, while the 790 used black or grey depending on year. Always verify the engine code before ordering timing belt kits, as tensioner designs changed in 2016 (Renault Technical Note MEG‑16‑008).
The K4M 838's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage engines subjected to frequent high-RPM use. Renault internal data indicated a measurable failure rate in engines exceeding 150,000 km, while timing belt neglect remains a leading cause of catastrophic engine failure. Extended oil change intervals and aggressive driving make adherence to the 120,000 km belt replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4M-838.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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