Renault K4M-753 Engine (2008–2015) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault K4M 753 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection, delivering a balance of efficiency and responsiveness for urban and highway driving. Output ranges from 79 kW (107 PS) to 84 kW (114 PS), with torque figures around 148–151 Nm.

Fitted to models such as the Clio III, Mégane III, and Scénic III, the K4M 753 was engineered for everyday practi…

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2015 models meet Euro 5 compliance .

Renault K4M-753 Technical Specifications

The Renault K4M 753 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and family hatchbacks/MPVs (2008-2015). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with DOHC 16-valve architecture to deliver smooth, linear power and everyday drivability. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with fuel economy.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,598 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
79.5 mm × 80.5 mm
Power output
79–84 kW (107–114 PS)
Torque
148–151 Nm @ 3,750 rpm
Fuel system
Multi-point fuel injection (Siemens)
Emissions standard
Euro 4 (2008–2010); Euro 5 (2011–2015)
Compression ratio
9.8:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Not applicable
Timing system
Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement)
Oil type
Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight
112 kg

Renault K4M-753 Compatible Models

The Renault K4M 753 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Scénic and revised intake manifolds in facelifted Mégane models-and from 2011 the updated K4M 754 variant with minor ECU and emissions tweaks, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2012
Models:
Clio III
Variants:
1.6 16V, 1.6 Expression, 1.6 Dynamique
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. K4M-753-01
Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2015
Models:
Mégane III
Variants:
1.6 16V, 1.6 Expression, 1.6 Dynamique, 1.6 GT Line
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. K4M-753-01
Make:
Renault
Years:
2009–2015
Models:
Scénic III
Variants:
1.6 16V, 1.6 Expression, 1.6 Dynamique
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. K4M-753-02
Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2013
Models:
Kangoo II
Variants:
1.6 16V
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. K4M-753-03

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Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT K4M-753 Compatible Models

Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.

Exhaust camshaft lobe wear
Symptoms: Loss of power, rough idle, engine misfire codes (especially P0300 series), ticking noise from cylinder head.
Cause: Insufficient surface hardness and lubrication on early-production exhaust camshafts under high thermal load.
Fix: Replace camshaft with latest revised OEM part and inspect followers/lifters for damage per Renault Technical Note MEC‑08‑012.
Timing belt tensioner failure
Symptoms: Whining or rattling noise from front of engine, especially on cold start; potential for belt slippage or breakage.
Cause: Wear or failure of the hydraulic tensioner piston or spring, leading to loss of belt tension.
Fix: Replace the entire timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, idler pulleys) with OEM parts at recommended intervals or at first sign of noise.
Electronic throttle body (ETB) malfunction
Symptoms: Erratic idle, hesitation on acceleration, 'Check Engine' light with throttle position sensor (TPS) codes.
Cause: Carbon buildup on throttle plate or wear in the throttle position sensor potentiometer.
Fix: Clean throttle body thoroughly with appropriate cleaner; if codes persist, replace ETB assembly with OEM unit.
Coolant temperature sensor failure
Symptoms: Overcooling (fan runs constantly), poor fuel economy, hard starting, incorrect temperature gauge reading.
Cause: Degradation of the sensor element or its electrical connector, leading to inaccurate resistance signals.
Fix: Replace the coolant temperature sensor (CTS) with an OEM part and clear any stored fault codes.
Research Basis

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

RENAULT K4M-753 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The K4M 753 is generally robust with proper maintenance. Its main weakness is the exhaust camshaft in pre-2010 models. Post-2010 revisions improved durability. Strict adherence to timing belt and oil change schedules is paramount for long-term reliability, as neglect can lead to expensive failures.

The most frequent issues are premature exhaust camshaft wear (pre-2010), timing belt tensioner noise/failure, electronic throttle body faults causing idle issues, and coolant temperature sensor failures. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins.

This 1.6L petrol engine was widely used in Renault's lineup from 2008-2015. Key models include the Clio III, Mégane III, Scénic III, and Kangoo II. It was typically badged as '1.6 16V' across various trim levels like Expression and Dynamique.

Yes, modest gains are possible. An ECU remap can typically yield an extra 8-12 kW (10-15 PS) and improved torque. Bolt-on modifications like a performance air filter or exhaust can complement this. Significant power increases are limited by the naturally aspirated design and may compromise reliability.

Real-world fuel economy is reasonable. In a Clio III or Mégane III, expect combined figures of approximately 6.5–7.5 L/100km (38–43 mpg UK). Consumption will be higher in city driving (8-9 L/100km) and lower on highways (5.5-6.0 L/100km).

Yes. The K4M 753 is an interference engine. If the timing belt breaks or jumps teeth, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing severe internal damage that often requires a complete engine rebuild or replacement.

Renault specifies oil meeting the RN0700 standard, typically a 5W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic. Using the correct specification is crucial for protecting the camshaft and valvetrain. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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Primary Sources

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.

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

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

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