The Renault K7M 702 is a 1,598 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, delivering outputs ranging from 55 kW (75 PS) to 60 kW (82 PS) and torque figures of 127–135 Nm. Its simple SOHC layout prioritises cost-effective manufacturing and reliable low-rpm torque for urban commuting.
Fitted to models such as the Clio II, Kangoo I, and Twingo II, the K7M 702 was engineered for economical, low-maintenance transportation in compact vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic fuel injection and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing conformity with Euro 2 standards for its production period.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, potentially leading to belt slippage or failure. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note CLI‑01‑1999, is often attributed to bearing fatigue under high-mileage conditions. Later K7M variants incorporated revised tensioner designs for improved durability.
Production years 1996–2005 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The Renault K7M 702 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact city cars and vans (1996-2005). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with SOHC 8‑valve architecture to deliver predictable, low-stress performance and economical urban commuting. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritises simplicity and serviceability over high performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.5 mm × 80.5 mm | |
| Power output | 55–60 kW (75–82 PS) | |
| Torque | 127–135 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Sagem) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (requires 60,000 km replacement) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design provides predictable, low-stress performance ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. The timing belt tensioner pulley is a known wear item, as noted in Technical Note CLI-01-1999. The engine is tolerant of standard 95 RON fuel. Using Renault RN0700 (10W-40) oil is recommended for optimal lubrication. Neglecting the timing belt service is the single greatest risk to engine longevity.
Oil Specs: Recommends Renault RN0700 (10W-40) specification (Renault Service Manual 1310A). ACEA A3 compliant.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1996-2005 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies by model application (Renault Group PT-1998).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs 1310A, CLI-01-1999
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Renault K7M 702 was used across Renault's Clio II/Kangoo I platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-lighter flywheel in the Twingo II-and from 2000 minor ECU revisions for emissions, creating minor software 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 Service Manual 1310A). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to engine type ('E' for K7M 702 in many applications). Visually, it features a simple metal cam cover without "16v" branding. Critical differentiation from K4M engines: K7M 702 uses a Sagem ECU and has only one camshaft visible under the cover. Engine management parts require verification against the specific engine serial number prefix.
The K7M 702's primary reliability risk is timing belt or tensioner failure, with catastrophic consequences if neglected. Renault service data indicates a significant portion of failures occur in vehicles exceeding 80,000 km without belt service. Urban stop-start driving accelerates accessory belt wear, making adherence to the 60,000 km replacement interval critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1998-2003) and owner-reported failure patterns. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K7M-702.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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