Since 2005, Yokohama and Busan factories have assembled the 2.0-liter Renault M4R engine, which powers the company’s well-known models, including the Megane, Laguna, Fluence, and Latitude. This power unit is a type of Nissan MR20DE engine by nature.
B4A, B4D, H4D, H4M, M4R, M5R, 2TR, V4U, and V4Y are the SCe line.
The engine made its debut in 2005 as the MR20DE on the third generation of the Nissan Serena minivan. Almost immediately after, it started to be installed on the Renault Samsung SM5 sedan, which was already listed under the M4R index. With an aluminum block, a head devoid of hydraulic lifters, a timing chain, and an inlet dephaser, this 16-valve engine is a true classic of the Japanese school of motor building. This motor easily complies with EURO 5 environmental standards because it uses an electronic throttle.
A distinguishing characteristic of this motor is its extremely low internal resistance, which is attained by carefully treating the surfaces of all rubbing components, including the camshaft cams and crankshaft journals. To a mirror finish, that is.
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
Lubricant consumption is arguably this power unit’s most well-known issue. Decarbonization or switching to a different oil can occasionally be helpful, but most of the time it just requires a significant overhaul.
In this engine, the timing chain is frequently pulled out after 200,000 kilometers. Although replacements are cheap, servicemen are typically also sentenced to an expensive phase regulator.
Numerous instances of an abrupt decrease in engine power during extreme heat have been reported on specialized forums. The air temperature sensor, which is paired with the mass air flow sensor in this instance, is typically the cause.
This power unit’s aluminum cylinder head is extremely sensitive and fears both overheating and using too much force when screwing in the candles. Be very cautious.
Additionally, the belt of mounted units frequently whistles or knocks, necessitating valve adjustment, and the engine’s idle speed occasionally floats here due to throttle contamination.