Renault K4M-762 Engine (2008–2016) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault K4M 762 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2016. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. This naturally aspirated unit delivered 81 kW (110 PS) and 151 Nm of torque, offering a balance of responsiveness and everyday drivability for its vehicle class.

Fitted primarily to the Mégane III, Scénic III, and Duster platforms, the K4M 762 was engineered for dependable urban and hi…

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2016 models meet Euro 5 standards .

Renault K4M-762 Technical Specifications

The Renault K4M 762 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact family vehicles (2008-2016). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve head and variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it prioritizes reliability and cost‑effective ownership.

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
81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,750 rpm
Torque
151 Nm @ 3,750 rpm
Fuel system
Multi‑point fuel injection (Siemens)
Emissions standard
Euro 4 (2008–2010); Euro 5 (2011–2016)
Compression ratio
9.8:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain‑driven (front‑mounted)
Oil type
Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight
112 kg

Renault K4M-762 Compatible Models

The Renault K4M 762 was used across Renault's Mégane III and Scénic III platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU calibrations for different body weights-and a mid-cycle update for Euro 5 compliance, which included revised catalytic converter and engine management software, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2016
Models:
Mégane III (Phase 1 & 2)
Variants:
1.6 16V
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. K4M‑762
Make:
Renault
Years:
2009–2016
Models:
Scénic III (Phase 1 & 2)
Variants:
1.6 16V
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. K4M‑762
Make:
Dacia
Years:
2010–2016
Models:
Duster
Variants:
1.6 16V
View Source
Dacia EPC Ref. K4M‑762

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Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT K4M-762 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.

Variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid failure
Symptoms: Illuminated check engine light, rough or erratic idle, loss of power, especially at low RPM, potential rattling noise from the timing cover area.
Cause: Internal wear, electrical failure, or clogging due to oil sludge/varnish buildup in the solenoid, preventing it from regulating oil pressure to the VVT phaser correctly.
Fix: Replace the faulty VVT solenoid with the latest OEM-specified part; ensure engine oil is clean and at the correct level and specification.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Engine misfire (often on a single cylinder), rough idle, illuminated check engine light with specific coil fault codes.
Cause: Age and heat cycling can cause the internal windings of the individual ignition coils to break down, leading to intermittent or complete failure.
Fix: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s) with OEM-specified units; renew spark plugs if nearing end of service life.
Thermostat housing/coolant leaks
Symptoms: Coolant smell, visible coolant residue around the thermostat housing (front of engine), low coolant level warning.
Cause: The plastic thermostat housing and associated O-rings/gaskets can become brittle and crack over time due to heat cycles.
Fix: Replace the thermostat housing assembly and associated gaskets with OEM parts; bleed the cooling system thoroughly after repair.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattling or whining noise from the front of the engine, especially on cold start, potential for timing chain jump if severe.
Cause: Normal wear of the hydraulic tensioner piston or spring over high mileage, or insufficient oil pressure/volume reaching the tensioner.
Fix: Replace the timing chain tensioner and inspect the chain and guides for wear; ensure correct oil type and level are maintained.
Research Basis

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

RENAULT K4M-762 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

Generally, the K4M 762 is a robust and reliable engine. Its main known issue is the VVT solenoid, which Renault addressed with updated parts. With strict adherence to oil changes using RN0700 5W-40 and addressing common ancillary issues like coils and thermostats, these engines can easily surpass 200,000 km without major problems.

The most documented issue is VVT solenoid failure. Other frequent problems include ignition coil failures, coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing, and wear of the timing chain tensioner. These are covered in Renault service documentation and are generally straightforward to repair.

The K4M 762 was used in the Renault Mégane III (2008-2016), Scénic III (2009-2016), and the Dacia Duster (2010-2016), all badged as the '1.6 16V'. It was a common engine for Renault's compact and family vehicle lineup during this period.

Minor gains are possible. An ECU remap might yield 5-10 kW extra by optimizing ignition and fuel maps. Significant power increases are limited by the naturally aspirated design and would require forced induction, which is complex and costly. Most owners focus on maintenance for longevity rather than tuning.

Real-world fuel economy is reasonable. Expect around 8.0-9.0 L/100km (31-35 mpg UK) in mixed urban driving and 6.0-7.0 L/100km (40-47 mpg UK) on the highway in a Mégane III. Actual figures depend heavily on driving style, vehicle condition, and whether it's paired with a manual or automatic transmission.

Yes. The K4M 762 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing severe internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable with proper maintenance.

Renault mandates oil meeting the RN0700 specification, typically a 5W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic. Using this specific oil is crucial, especially for protecting the VVT system and camshafts. 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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