Engine Code

RENAULT K4M-858 engine (2015–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault K4M 858 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 around 75 kW (102 PS) and 145 Nm of torque. Its variable valve timing system optimises the trade‑off between low‑end responsiveness and fuel economy for everyday urban and highway driving.

Fitted to models like the Clio IV facelift, Captur II, and Twingo III, the K4M 858 was engineered for dependable, economical motoring in compact vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control and precise fuel metering, allowing most units to meet Euro 6 standards across all production years.

One documented service concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in higher‑mileage examples. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note 4125C, is often attributed to marginal lubrication under sustained high‑load conditions. Renault addressed this by revising the camshaft material specification and oil feed passages in the final production runs.

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2015–2020) meet Euro 6 standards across all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).

K4M-858 Technical Specifications

The Renault K4M 858 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2015-2020). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver balanced performance and fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards universally, it prioritises reliability and low running costs for daily use.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,598 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke79.5 mm × 80.5 mm
Power output75 kW (102 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque145 Nm @ 3,500 rpm
Fuel systemMulti‑point fuel injection (Siemens)
Emissions standardEuro 6 (2015–2020)
Compression ratio9.8:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain‑driven (front‑mounted)
Oil typeRenault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight110 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design offers predictable, linear power delivery suited for relaxed driving but requires regular oil changes (every 15,000 km) to prevent camshaft lobe wear. Renault RN0700 (5W-40) oil is critical for its specific anti-wear additives protecting the valvetrain. The timing chain is designed for life but tensioner failure can occur; listen for a rattle on cold start. Fuel injectors may require cleaning after 100,000 km to maintain idle quality and emissions. Final production models feature updated camshafts per Technical Note 4125C.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault Service Manual 60C). Equivalent ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable.

Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies universally to all 2015-2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault TIS Doc. K4M-15).

Primary Sources

Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K4M-15, 4125C

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

K4M-858 Compatible Models

The Renault K4M 858 was used across Renault's B platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Captur II and revised intake manifolds in the Clio IV facelift-and featured consistent emissions hardware for Euro 6 compliance, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2016-2020
Models:
Clio IV (facelift)
Variants:
1.6 16v
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. K4M-858
Make:
Renault
Years:
2017-2020
Models:
Captur II
Variants:
1.6
View Source
Renault Group PT‑2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2015-2020
Models:
Twingo III
Variants:
1.6
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. K4M-15
Make:
Dacia
Years:
2016-2020
Models:
Sandero II (facelift)
Variants:
1.6
View Source
Dacia EPC #DC-K4M
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS K4M-15). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('6' for 1.6L). All K4M 858 engines have a black cam cover indicating the final specification. Critical differentiation from K4M 801: K4M 858 uses a unique ECU calibration and has distinct part numbers for the camshafts introduced per Technical Note 4125C.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Renault TIS Doc. K4M-15

Location:

Stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS K4M-15).

Visual Cues:

All units: Black cam cover (indicates final K4M specification)
Compatibility Notes

E C U Type:

Uses a Siemens fuel injection ECU with unique mapping calibrated for Euro 6 compliance, differentiating it from other K4M family members.

Evidence:

Renault Technical Note 4125C

Camshafts:

Camshafts for K4M 858 models are not compatible with earlier K4M 801 or K4M 752 units due to final material and calibration revisions per OEM documentation.

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT K4M-858

The K4M 858's primary documented concern is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or frequently high-load vehicles. Renault internal reports noted this issue across the production run, while owner feedback often cites ignition coil failures as a common electrical fault. Sustained high RPM use and infrequent oil changes accelerate cam wear, making adherence to service intervals critical.

Exhaust camshaft lobe wear
Symptoms: Loss of power, misfire under load (especially above 4,000 rpm), increased oil consumption, metallic particles in oil filter.
Cause: Marginal lubrication film on exhaust cam lobes under high thermal load, exacerbated by extended oil change intervals or low-quality oil.
Fix: Replace camshaft with latest OEM-specified part per Technical Note 4125C; inspect followers and renew engine oil with correct specification.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Engine misfire (often on a single cylinder), rough idle, 'Check Engine' light with misfire codes, difficulty starting.
Cause: Heat cycling and electrical stress cause internal breakdown of the coil windings or insulation over time.
Fix: Replace faulty ignition coil(s) with OEM unit; inspect spark plugs and HT leads for wear or damage during replacement.
Thermostat housing/coolant leaks
Symptoms: Coolant smell, low coolant level warning, visible coolant residue around thermostat housing or water pump area.
Cause: Ageing and thermal cycling cause plastic thermostat housings and associated O-rings/gaskets to become brittle and crack.
Fix: Replace thermostat housing assembly and associated gaskets with OEM parts; bleed cooling system thoroughly after repair.
Timing chain tensioner rattle
Symptoms: Distinctive metallic rattle from front of engine on cold start, lasting 1-2 seconds, may worsen with engine age.
Cause: Wear or loss of hydraulic pressure in the chain tensioner piston, allowing slight chain slack during initial oil pressure build-up.
Fix: Replace timing chain tensioner with latest OEM part; inspect chain and guides for wear if rattle is persistent or loud.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about RENAULT K4M-858

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K4M-858.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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