The Dacia K9K 612 is a 1,461 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2017. It forms part of the Renault-Nissan common-rail diesel family, delivering 55 kW (75 PS) with 195 Nm of torque. Featuring a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), DOHC layout, and Bosch CRDi fuel system, it was engineered for low running costs and urban drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Dacia Sandero, Logan, and Duster, the K9K 612 was designed for budget-conscious drivers seeking fuel economy and reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing Euro 4 compliance for pre-2010 models and Euro 5 for later variants.
One documented concern is premature timing belt wear under extended service intervals, highlighted in Renault Service Bulletin TIS-ENG-2011-02. This issue stems from tensioner degradation and coolant contamination in humid climates. From 2014, revised service schedules and updated tensioner components were introduced across the Renault-Nissan alliance to improve durability.
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2017 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Dacia K9K 612 is a 1,461 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and subcompact models (2008–2017). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and strong fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it balances affordability with durability in high-mileage applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 80.5 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRDi common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2017) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (IHI RHF3) | |
| Timing system | Toothed belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (5W-30 or 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The K9K 612 provides strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine failure. Renault RN0700/RN0710 oil is essential for turbo and injector longevity. Cold-start idling should be kept brief to reduce soot accumulation in the EGR and DPF. The Bosch CRDi system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent high-pressure pump wear. EGR/DPF systems require periodic regeneration and cleaning to avoid limp mode. Post-2014 models benefit from revised tensioner design per Renault SIB TIS-ENG-2011-02.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or RN0710 specification (Renault SIB TIS-MAINT-2013-05). Compatible with ACEA B4 and C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 applies to 2008–2009 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 compliance for 2010–2017 models varies by market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades due to ECU calibration (Renault TIS Doc. R18200).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs R18200, TIS-ENG-2011-02, TIS-MAINT-2013-05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1996 Road Vehicles — Engine Test Code — Net Power
The Dacia K9K 612 was used across Dacia's Sandero, Logan, and Duster platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Renault and Nissan under alliance agreements. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake tracts in the Sandero and revised cooling in the Duster-and from 2014 the facelifted Logan II adopted revised EGR calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Renault's Clio III and Nissan Micra K13 to use identical powertrains. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing belt cover (Renault TIS R18200). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for K9K series). Pre-2014 models have silver valve covers with ribbed plastic covers; post-2014 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from K9K 700: Original K9K 612 has Bosch EDC15C2 ECU with 80-pin connector, while K9K 700 uses EDC17C64 with 100-pin. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2013 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Renault SIB TIS-ENG-2011-02).
The K9K 612's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on neglected units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or delayed-maintenance vehicles. Internal Renault quality reports from 2013 indicated a notable share of pre-2014 engines requiring belt replacement before 120,000 km due to tensioner wear, while UK DVSA records show timing-related failures contributing to MOT failures in diesel models. Extended service intervals and poor coolant maintenance increase risk, making adherence to 6-year replacement critical regardless of mileage.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2010–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA K9K612.
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