The Renault K7M 745 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2008. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with 8 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form, it delivers 55 kW (75 PS) and 114 Nm of torque, prioritizing simplicity and cost‑effective ownership over high performance.
Fitted to entry‑level models such as the Clio II, Kangoo I, and Twingo II, the K7M 745 was engineered for basic, reliable urban transportation. Emissions compliance for most units was achieved to meet Euro 2 and Euro 3 standards, with later production potentially meeting Euro 4 in specific markets.
One documented concern is premature failure of the exhaust manifold, which can crack near the flange due to thermal cycling stresses. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note 7891B, is often attributed to the material specification and design of the early cast-iron manifolds. Renault addressed this in subsequent production runs with revised manifold casting patterns and material composition.
Production years 1996–2000 meet Euro 2 standards; 2001–2005 models meet Euro 3; 2006–2008 models may have Euro 4 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Renault K7M 745 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and light commercial vehicles (1996-2008). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a SOHC 8‑valve layout to deliver predictable, low-stress performance ideal for city driving. Designed to meet Euro 2 through Euro 4 standards, it emphasizes mechanical simplicity and low running costs.
| 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 kW (75 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 114 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (SAGEM SL96) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (1996–2000); Euro 3 (2001–2005); Euro 4 (2006–2008, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated, SOHC design offers forgiving, low-maintenance operation but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt changes to prevent catastrophic failure in this interference engine. The SAGEM SL96 ECU is robust, though coolant temperature sensor failure is common, causing cold-start enrichment issues. Exhaust manifold cracks are a known failure point on pre-2003 units; replacement with a later-pattern manifold is recommended. Oil changes with RN0700 (10W-40) specification are critical for longevity, especially in stop-start urban use.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (10W-40) specification for pre-2005 models (Renault Service Manual 7891B). Post-2005 may specify RN0710 (5W-30).
Emissions: Euro 2/3/4 certification varies by production year (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345). Specific model-year compliance is detailed in the VCA database.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output figures are consistent across documented variants (Renault Group PT-1998).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs 7891B, EPC K7M-745
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
UN ECE Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Renault K7M 745 was used across Renault's A/B-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations-simple engine mounts across all applications-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 7891B). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code family. Visually, the K7M 745 features a black plastic intake manifold and a single ignition coil mounted on the valve cover. Critical differentiation from the K7M 710: The 745 uses a SAGEM SL96 ECU, while the 710 uses a Magneti Marelli unit. Service parts like exhaust manifolds are specific to the 745 variant and not interchangeable with other K7M codes without verification.
The K7M 745's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure if neglected, with catastrophic consequences in its interference design. Renault internal service data indicated a high correlation between missed belt changes and engine write-offs. Exhaust manifold cracking is also prevalent in early builds, particularly under high thermal load. Adherence to the 60,000 km belt interval and preemptive manifold replacement on early units are critical mitigation factors.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1996-2008) and owner-reported failure data (2008-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K7M-745.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with RENAULT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
RENAULT Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
