The Renault K4M 854 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form, it delivers 75 kW (102 PS) and 145 Nm of torque, offering a balance of adequate power for city driving and respectable fuel economy.
Fitted to models such as the Clio III, Mégane III, and Scénic III, the K4M 854 was engineered for dependable, everyday motoring with an emphasis on cost‑effective ownership. Emissions compliance for most units was achieved to meet Euro 4 standards, with later production potentially meeting Euro 5 in specific markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft and its lobes, particularly in engines with higher mileage or inconsistent oil changes. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note 8412A, is often attributed to design characteristics of the cam followers and oil flow dynamics. Renault addressed this in subsequent engine variants with revised camshaft and follower materials.
Production years 2008–2012 meet Euro 4 standards; 2013–2015 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K4M 854 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and family hatchbacks/MPVs (2008-2015). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve layout to deliver smooth, predictable power delivery suitable for urban and highway use. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and some market‑specific Euro 5) standards, it prioritizes reliability and running costs.
| 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) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Bosch ME7.4.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2013); Euro 5 depending on market | |
| 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 naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery ideal for relaxed driving but requires consistent oil changes with RN0700 (5W-40) specification to mitigate camshaft wear risk. The timing chain is generally robust but tensioner rattle can occur on high-mileage units; inspection is advised after 150,000 km. The Bosch ME7.4.4 ECU is reliable, though throttle body carbon buildup can cause idle instability, necessitating periodic cleaning. Coolant should be replaced per schedule to prevent heater matrix corrosion, a known issue on Mégane/Scénic platforms.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault Service Manual 8412A). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2013 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2013-2015 models meet Euro 5 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output figures are consistent across documented variants (Renault Group PT-2010).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs 8412A, EPC K4M-854
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
UN ECE Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Renault K4M 854 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Scénic and revised intake manifolds for the Mégane-with no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. 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 8412A). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code family. Visually, the K4M 854 features a black plastic intake manifold and a centrally mounted throttle body. Critical differentiation from the higher-output K4M 856: The 854 has a single ignition coil pack for all four cylinders, while the 856 uses individual coil-on-plug units. Service parts like camshafts are specific to the 854 variant and not interchangeable with other K4M codes without verification.
The K4M 854's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles or those with infrequent oil changes. Renault internal data indicated a notable failure rate beyond 150,000 km, while owner club surveys frequently cite timing chain tensioner rattle as a common pre-failure symptom. Consistent use of correct oil specification and timely tensioner replacement are critical mitigation factors.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2008-2015) and owner-reported failure data (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4M-854.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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