The Renault M4R 711 is a 2,488 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake camshaft. This configuration delivers 127 kW (172 PS) and 225 Nm of torque, with VVT optimizing valve overlap for a balance of low — end responsiveness and high — RPM power.
Fitted primarily to the Laguna III and Espace IV models, the M4R 711 was engineered for refin…
Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2015 models meet Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault M4R 711 is a 2,488 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid‑size sedans and MPVs (2008-2015). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday drivability with respectable performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,488 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 100.0 mm | |
Power output | 127 kW (172 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 225 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2008–2010); Euro 5 (2011–2015) | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | N/A | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 165 kg |
The Renault M4R 711 was used across Renault's Laguna and Espace platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Espace for NVH refinement-and from 2011 the Laguna facelift models featured minor ECU updates for Euro 5 compliance, creating potential software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M4R 711's primary reliability risk is variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil change intervals. Renault internal service data indicates this is a leading cause of powertrain fault codes for this engine, while owner feedback frequently cites associated rough idling. Neglecting oil changes allows sludge to form, making solenoid replacement and strict maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2010-2016) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M4R 711 is generally a robust and reliable engine when properly maintained. Its main weakness is the VVT solenoid, which fails if oil changes are neglected. With regular servicing using the correct 5W-40 oil, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 km. The timing chain is designed to last the engine's lifetime under normal conditions.
The most frequent issues are VVT solenoid failures (causing check engine lights), oil consumption/leaks from seals, ignition coil pack failures leading to misfires, and plastic thermostat housing cracks causing coolant leaks. These are well-documented in Renault service information.
The M4R 711 2.5L petrol engine was primarily used in the third-generation Renault Laguna (2008-2015) and the fourth-generation Renault Espace (2008-2012). It was the top-tier petrol option for these models during their production runs.
Yes, the M4R 711 has modest tuning potential. ECU remaps can safely yield gains of 10-15 kW and 20-30 Nm by optimizing ignition and fuel maps. More significant power increases require hardware like performance cams or intake/exhaust upgrades, which are less common due to the engine's design.
Fuel economy is moderate for its size. Expect around 11.5 L/100km in city driving and 7.0 L/100km on the highway, averaging 9.0-9.5 L/100km combined. This translates to roughly 25-30 mpg (UK) in real-world mixed driving conditions.
Yes. The M4R 711 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons would collide with the open valves, resulting in severe internal engine damage requiring a costly rebuild.
Renault specifies a 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting the RN0700 standard. Using this specific oil is crucial for the health of the VVT system and to prevent sludge buildup. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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