The Renault K4J 710 is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2008. It features an aluminium block and cylinder head, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, and multi — point fuel injection. Output is 72 kW (98 PS), with torque peaking at 127 Nm, offering a balance of efficiency and responsive performance for compact vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the Clio II RS 172 Cup, Mégane II, and Scénic II, the K4J 710…
Production years 2000–2008 meet Euro 3 standards as per applicable regulations for relevant model years).
The Renault K4J 710 is a 1,390 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for sporty hatchbacks and MPVs (2000-2008). It combines an aluminium construction with a DOHC 16-valve valvetrain to deliver responsive power and a high-revving character. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritises mechanical precision and driver engagement over ultimate fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 75.8 mm × 77.0 mm | |
Power output | 72 kW (98 PS) | |
Torque | 127 Nm @ 4,250 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 95 kg |
The Renault K4J 710 was used across Renault's Clio II, Mégane II, and Scénic II platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations during its production run. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The K4J 710's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to neglect, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding the 60,000 km service interval. Renault service documentation highlights the critical nature of this maintenance, while owner reports frequently cite ignition coil and sensor failures as common causes of drivability problems. Addressing these specific maintenance items is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2000-2008) and owner-reported failure patterns. 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 K4J 710 is generally reliable if basic maintenance is followed. Its main weakness is the critical timing belt, which must be replaced at 60,000 km to prevent catastrophic engine damage. With proper care, including timely coil and sensor replacement, these engines can easily reach 200,000 km. The DOHC design is robust when maintained.
The most frequent issues are timing belt failure due to neglect (causing catastrophic damage), ignition coil pack failure (causing misfires), faulty coolant temperature sensors (causing running problems), and oil leaks from the cam cover gasket. These are well-documented in Renault service literature.
This 1.4L 16V petrol engine was primarily used in the second-generation Renault Clio (2000-2005), including the early RS 172 Cup, the second-generation Mégane (2002-2008), and the second-generation Scénic (2003-2008). It was the sporty 1.4L option for these models.
Minor tuning is possible. Upgrades like a performance exhaust, high-flow air filter, or ECU remap can yield small gains. The engine's 16-valve DOHC design offers more potential than 8-valve units, but significant power increases are limited by displacement. It responds well to bolt-on modifications.
Fuel economy is reasonable for its performance. Expect around 7.5-8.5 L/100km (33-38 mpg UK) combined for a manual gearbox car. City driving will be higher (9.0-10.0 L/100km), while highway cruising can drop to 6.0-6.5 L/100km (43-47 mpg UK).
Yes. The K4J 710 is an interference engine. If the timing belt fails, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing severe internal damage that requires a major engine rebuild or replacement.
Renault specified a semi-synthetic SAE 5W-30 engine oil for the K4J 710. Modern equivalents meeting ACEA A3/B4 standards are suitable. Change every 15,000 km or annually, whichever comes first.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
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