Renault M4R-711 Engine (2008–2015) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

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…

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

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

Renault M4R-711 Technical Specifications

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.

ParameterValueSource
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

Renault M4R-711 Compatible Models

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.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2015
Models:
Laguna III
Variants:
2.5
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2012
Models:
Espace IV
Variants:
2.5
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. M4R-008

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Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT M4R-711 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: Check engine light (often P0011/P0014), rough idle, loss of power, rattling noise from timing cover area.
Cause: Internal solenoid valve sticking or electrical failure due to oil sludge buildup or component wear over time.
Fix: Replace the faulty VVT solenoid per service bulletin; inspect oil passages for sludge and perform an oil flush if necessary.
Oil Consumption / Leaks
Symptoms: Low oil level warnings between services, visible oil residue on engine block, smell of burning oil.
Cause: Degradation of valve stem seals or rear main crankshaft seal; PCV system issues can exacerbate consumption.
Fix: Inspect and replace valve stem seals or rear main seal as needed; verify PCV valve function and replace if blocked.
Ignition Coil Pack Failure
Symptoms: Engine misfire (especially under load), rough running, reduced power, specific cylinder misfire DTCs.
Cause: Heat cycling and age-related breakdown of internal insulation in the coil packs, leading to arcing or open circuits.
Fix: Replace the faulty ignition coil pack(s); it is often recommended to replace all coils preventatively due to similar age.
Thermostat Housing Cracks
Symptoms: Coolant leaks (often near the front of the engine), low coolant level, erratic temperature gauge readings.
Cause: Plastic thermostat housing prone to cracking from heat cycles and material fatigue, leading to coolant seepage.
Fix: Replace the thermostat housing assembly with an updated OEM part; inspect coolant hoses and clamps for related wear.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2010-2016) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT M4R-711 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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.

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the M4R-711 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.

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.

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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