The 2.0-liter Renault M4R engine has been assembled at factories in Yokohama and Busan since 2005 and is installed on such popular models of the company as Megane, Laguna, Fluence, Latitude. This power unit is inherently one of the varieties of the Nissan MR20DE engine.
The engine debuted in 2005 as the MR20DE on the third generation of the Nissan Serena minivan and almost immediately began to be installed on the Renault Samsung SM5 sedan already under the M4R index. By design, this is a completely classic 16-valve engine of the Japanese school of motor building: an aluminum block, a head without hydraulic lifters, a timing chain and an inlet dephaser. Thanks to the use of an electronic throttle, this motor easily fits into the EURO 5 environmental standards.
A signature feature of this motor is considered to be a very low internal resistance, achieved through particularly careful surface treatment of all rubbing parts, such as crankshaft journals and camshaft cams. Literally to a mirror finish.
SCe family: B4A, B4D, H4D, H4M, M4R, M5R, 2TR, V4U, V4Y.
Specifications
| Production years | since 2005 |
| Displacement, cc | 1997 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 130 – 145 |
| Torque output, Nm | 190 – 210 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 84 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 90.1 |
| Compression ratio | 10.2 |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | at the intake |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30, 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.7 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4/5 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Renault Fluence 2015) — city — highway — combined |
11.0 6.2 8.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~350 000 |
| Weight, kg | 118 |
The engine was installed on:
- Renault Clio 3 (X85) in 2006 – 2008;
- Renault Fluence 1 (L38) in 2009 – 2017;
- Renault Laguna 3 (X91) in 2007 – 2015;
- Renault Latitude 1 (L70) in 2010 – 2015;
- Renault Megane 3 (X95) in 2008 – 2016;
- Renault Scenic 3 (J95) in 2009 – 2016;
- Samsung SM3 2 (L38) in 2009 – 2020;
- Samsung SM5 2 (EX1) in 2005 – 2010.
Disadvantages of the Renault M4R engine
- Probably the most famous problem of this power unit is lubricant consumption. Sometimes the selection of a different oil or decarbonization helps, but most often only a major overhaul.
- Often, on a run of about 200,000 km, the timing chain is pulled out in this engine. Replacement is inexpensive, but usually servicemen also sentence an expensive phase regulator.
- On specialized forums, many cases of a sharp drop in engine power in intense heat have been described. The reason is most often in the air temperature sensor, which is combined here with the mass air flow sensor.
- The aluminum cylinder head of this power unit is very delicate and is afraid not only of overheating, but simply of excessive force when screwing in the candles. Be extremely careful.
- Also, the idle speed of the engine periodically floats here due to throttle contamination, the belt of mounted units often whistles or knocks requiring valve adjustment.
Frequently asked questions about the Renault M4R
How much power does the Renault M4R make?
The Renault M4R develops 130 - 145 hp and 190 - 210 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Renault M4R take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.7 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30, 5W-40.
Does the Renault M4R have a timing belt or chain?
The Renault M4R uses a timing chain.
Is the Renault M4R turbocharged?
No, the Renault M4R is naturally aspirated.
Does the Renault M4R need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the Renault M4R last?
The typical lifespan of the Renault M4R is ~350 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Renault M4R?
Renault Fluence 2015: city 11.0, highway 6.2, combined 8.0 L/100 km.
What cars was the Renault M4R installed on?
Renault Clio 3 (X85) in 2006 - 2008; Renault Fluence 1 (L38) in 2009 - 2017; Renault Laguna 3 (X91) in 2007 - 2015; Renault Latitude 1 (L70) in 2010 - 2015; Renault Megane 3 (X95) in 2008 - 2016; Renault Scenic 3 (J95) in 2009 - 2016 and 2 more (see the full list above).
What are the common problems of the Renault M4R?
Probably the most famous problem of this power unit is lubricant consumption. Sometimes the selection of a different oil or decarbonization helps, but most often only a major overhaul. Often, on a run of about 200,000 km, the timing chain is pulled out in this engine. Replacement is inexpensive, but usually servicemen also sentence an expensive phase regulator. All known problems.
