The Renault K4M 848 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2021. 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 Captur II, Clio V, and Mégane IV facelift, the K4M 848 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 6 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 2015–2018 meet Euro 6b standards; 2019–2021 models may have Euro 6d-TEMP compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Renault K4M 848 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and family hatchbacks (2015-2021). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve head to deliver smooth, linear power and predictable drivability. Designed to meet Euro 6 (and some market‑specific Euro 6d-TEMP) 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 6 (pre‑2019); Euro 6d-TEMP 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 6 certification applies to pre-2019 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680). Some 2019-2021 models meet Euro 6d-TEMP depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault TIS Doc. K4M-003).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K4M-003, K4M-007
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB): MEC-08-012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
The Renault K4M 848 was used across Renault's B/C platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Captur II and revised exhaust manifolds in facelifted Mégane IV models-and from 2021 the Clio adopted hybrid powertrains, 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-003). 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 earlier K4M 794: The K4M 848 uses an updated ECU and revised emissions hardware for Euro 6 compliance. 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 848'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 (2015-2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4M-848.
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