The Dacia K9K 796 is a 1,461 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2018. It features a common rail direct injection system, variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering 57 kW (77 PS) at 4,000 rpm and 195 Nm of torque at 1,750 rpm. This engine was developed by Renault for use in budget-oriented passenger vehicles, prioritising fuel efficiency and low-end torque for urban driving.
Fitted to models such as the Dacia Logan MCV, Sandero, and Dokker, the K9K 796 was engineered for economical operation and durability in diverse climates. It meets Euro 4 emissions standards through the use of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), making it suitable for urban environments with strict emissions regulations. The engine’s low-rpm torque delivery supports relaxed motorway cruising and light load carrying.
One documented concern is premature diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly in vehicles used for frequent short trips or urban stop-start driving. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Bulletin TDB 07-09-03, can lead to forced regeneration events, reduced performance, or limp mode. From 2012 onward, revised ECU calibration and improved EGR valve design were introduced to enhance soot management and extend DPF service life.
All models (2008–2018) comply with Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Dacia K9K 796 is a 1,461 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for compact and leisure-oriented models (2008–2018). It combines common rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-RPM torque and efficient fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with environmental compliance.
| 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 | 57 kW (77 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (IHI RHF4) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (ACEA B4 or C3) | |
| Dry weight | 137 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving and light-load operation but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent DPF clogging and turbo degradation. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting ACEA C3 specifications is recommended to ensure compatibility with the DPF and EGR systems. Extended urban use without sustained higher-speed runs can inhibit passive DPF regeneration, leading to active regeneration cycles that increase fuel consumption. Post-2012 models feature updated ECU mapping and EGR valve design; pre-2012 units benefit from the revised EGR kit per Renault SIB TDB 07-09-03. Regular EGR cleaning and DPF monitoring are advised to maintain drivability and emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting ACEA C3 or B4 (Renault SIB TDB 07-09-03). Compatible with API CK-4/SN standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (2008–2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 5 variant was produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities due to conservative ECU calibration (Renault TIS Doc. B16230).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B15780, B15910, B16230, SIB TDB 07-09-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Dacia K9K 796 was used across Dacia's Logan/Sandero platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Renault for use in utility and leisure vehicles. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Logan MCV and revised exhaust routing in the Dokker-and from 2012 the facelifted Sandero Stepway adopted updated ECU calibration and EGR valve design, creating service part incompatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Renault TIS B15800). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for K9K series). Pre-2012 models have a silver valve cover with black plastic timing cover; post-2012 units use a black valve cover. Critical differentiation from K9K 700: K9K 796 has a Bosch CRS 2.0 injection system and IHI turbocharger. Service parts require model-year verification—EGR valves and DPF units for pre-2012 engines are not compatible with post-2012 revisions due to updated flow calibration and sensor integration (Renault SIB TDB 07-09-03).
The K9K 796's primary reliability risk is DPF clogging, with elevated incidence in urban and short-trip usage. Renault internal field reports from 2014 indicated a significant number of pre-2012 engines requiring forced regeneration or DPF cleaning before 100,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows emissions-related failures are common in non-highway-driven units. Short journeys and poor-quality diesel increase soot accumulation, making proactive DPF maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2008-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA K9K796.
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