Dacia K7M702 Engine (1998-2013) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Dacia K7M 702 is a 1,598 cc, inline — four petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2013. It was developed by Renault for use across its entry — level vehicle lineup and adopted by Dacia after the brand's acquisition. This SOHC, 8 — valve unit features multi — point fuel injection (MPi) and was designed for durability and low running costs. It produces 59 kW (80 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 128 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, offering adequate performance for urban and regional driving.

Fitte…

Dacia Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 1998–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2013 models comply with Euro 4 .

Dacia K7M702 Technical Specifications

The Dacia K7M 702 is a 1,598 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for budget-oriented vehicles (1998–2013). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver reliable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances durability with cost-effective ownership.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,598 cc
Fuel type
Petrol (Unleaded RON 95)
Configuration
Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
78.0 mm × 83.6 mm
Power output
59 kW (80 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque
128 Nm @ 3,000 rpm
Fuel system
Multi-point fuel injection (MPi)
Emissions standard
Euro 3 (pre-2006); Euro 4 (2006–2013)
Compression ratio
9.8:1
Cooling system
Water-cooled
Turbocharger
Not applicable
Timing system
Timing belt (renew every 120,000 km)
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
112 kg

Dacia K7M702 Compatible Models

The Dacia K7M 702 was used across Dacia's Logan/Sandero platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Renault and Nissan global models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the Logan and revised exhaust manifolds in the Symbol-and from 2006 the facelifted Logan Phase II adopted revised engine management software, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Renault's Clio II and Nissan's Almera to use identical K7M units. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Dacia
Years:
2005-2013
Models:
Logan
Variants:
1.6 MPI
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Dacia
Years:
2008-2012
Models:
Sandero
Variants:
1.6 MPI
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Dacia
Years:
2002-2013
Models:
Symbol
Variants:
1.6 MPI
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. M01-1120
Make:
Renault
Years:
1998-2005
Models:
Clio II
Variants:
1.6 8V
View Source
Renault ETK Doc. R12-4501
Make:
Nissan
Years:
2000-2006
Models:
Almera
Variants:
1.6 8V
View Source
Nissan EPC #NIS-889

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Common Reliability Issues - DACIA K7M702 Compatible Models

The K7M 702's primary reliability risk is cylinder head warping on high-mileage or poorly maintained units, with elevated incidence in hot climates and stop-start urban use. Renault internal quality reports from 2010 indicated a measurable failure rate in pre-2006 engines exceeding 100,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows cooling system neglect as a top cause of engine-related failures in Dacia models. Infrequent coolant changes and extended timing belt intervals increase thermal and mechanical stress, making adherence to service schedules critical.

Cylinder head warping or cracking
Symptoms: Overheating, white exhaust smoke, coolant loss, misfires, low compression.
Cause: Thermal stress from cooling system neglect or improper head bolt torque; aluminium head susceptible to distortion above 110°C.
Fix: Inspect head flatness; replace if warped >0.05 mm. Renew head gasket, bolts, and cooling components per service bulletin.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine won't start, rattling noise, bent valves, zero compression.
Cause: Belt degradation beyond 120,000 km or 8 years; tensioner wear; oil contamination from front crank seal leak.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, idler pulleys, and water pump per Renault SIB 036/2009. Verify cam/crank alignment after installation.
Idle speed instability
Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling at stops, fluctuating RPM, check engine light.
Cause: Carbon buildup in throttle body or idle air control valve; faulty MAP or coolant temperature sensor.
Fix: Clean throttle body and IACV; replace faulty sensors per diagnostic readout; perform ECU adaptation reset.
Coolant leaks from housing or hoses
Symptoms: Coolant puddles, overheating, low reservoir level, white residue on components.
Cause: Age-related degradation of plastic coolant housing or rubber hoses; thermal cycling weakens joints.
Fix: Replace leaking housing or hoses with OEM parts; flush system and refill with G12+ coolant per specification.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

DACIA K7M702 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The K7M 702 is generally robust when maintained properly, but pre-2006 models are prone to head warping if overheated or neglected. Timing belt integrity is critical due to interference design. Engines with regular oil and coolant changes, and timely belt replacement, often exceed 200,000 km. Post-2006 revisions improved cooling system reliability, enhancing longevity in well-serviced vehicles.

Key issues include cylinder head warping from overheating, timing belt failure due to overdue replacement, idle instability from carbon buildup, and coolant leaks from plastic housings. These are documented in Renault service bulletins, particularly SIB 036/2009 for head and cooling concerns. Preventive maintenance significantly reduces failure risk.

The K7M 702 was used in the Dacia Logan (2005–2013), Sandero (2008–2012), and Symbol (2002–2013). It was also shared with Renault Clio II (1998–2005) and Nissan Almera (2000–2006). All models feature the 1.6L 8V MPI configuration, with Euro 3 or Euro 4 compliance depending on model year.

Limited tuning potential exists. ECU remaps offer minimal gains due to restrictive intake and exhaust design. Aftermarket headers or throttle bodies may yield slight improvements, but the SOHC 8-valve architecture limits high-RPM power. Most owners prioritize reliability over performance; significant modifications are uncommon and not OEM-supported.

In a Dacia Logan, the K7M 702 averages 6.5–7.5 L/100km (38–35 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway efficiency improves to ~5.8 L/100km (~49 mpg UK). Real-world consumption depends on load and terrain, but the engine’s simplicity and light tuning contribute to dependable fuel economy, especially in urban settings.

Yes. The K7M 702 is an interference engine. If the timing belt fails, pistons contact open valves, causing severe internal damage. This makes adherence to the 120,000 km replacement interval essential. Any signs of belt wear or engine misalignment should prompt immediate inspection to avoid costly repairs.

Renault specifies SAE 10W-40 oil meeting ACEA A3/B3 standards. Mineral or semi-synthetic oils are acceptable due to moderate operating pressures. Change intervals are 15,000 km or annually. Proper oil selection ensures valve train protection and reduces sludge buildup, especially in hot climates.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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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.

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UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Regulatory Context

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

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VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

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