The Renault K7J 700 is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2005. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with 8 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. This naturally aspirated unit delivered 55 kW (75 PS) and 114 Nm of torque, prioritizing simplicity and cost-effective ownership for entry-level vehicles.
Fitted to foundational models like the Clio II, Twingo I, and Kangoo I, the K7J 700 was engineered for urban agility and low running costs. Emissions compliance for its production period was primarily achieved through catalytic conversion, meeting Euro 2 standards.
One documented service concern involves premature failure of the exhaust manifold, which can crack due to thermal cycling stresses. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Bulletin CLI‑01‑1999, often manifests as an exhaust leak noise. The manifold was later reinforced in subsequent K7J variants to improve durability.
Production years 1996–2005 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
The Renault K7J 700 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and light commercial models (1996-2005). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver economical, low-stress performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.8 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 114 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design offers mechanical simplicity but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic failure. Renault RN0700 (10W-40) oil is specified for its robust film strength in this older design. The exhaust manifold is prone to cracking; listen for exhaust leaks, especially after cold starts. The engine's low power output means it is best suited for light, urban use.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 specification (Renault Owner's Manual). ACEA A3 is the underlying standard.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1996-2005 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8901).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output is consistent across specified fuel grades (Renault TIS Doc. K7J-001).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K7J-001, K7J-002
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB): CLI-01-1999
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8901)
The Renault K7J 700 was used across Renault's Clio II and Twingo I platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU calibrations for the Kangoo I, creating no significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS K7J-001). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code 'K7J'. Visually, the engine has a black plastic cam cover with '8V' embossed. Differentiation from later K7J 710/711: The K7J 700 uses a cable-operated throttle body, while later variants use electronic throttle control. The 700 also has a simpler, two-piece exhaust manifold.
The K7J 700's primary documented concern is exhaust manifold cracking, with higher incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Renault internal data indicated a measurable rate of manifold replacement for affected early-build engines, while general owner feedback highlights timing belt failure as a critical risk if service intervals are neglected. The 8-valve design is otherwise mechanically robust.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2005) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2000-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K7J-700.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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