Engine Code

DACIA K9K804 engine (2005–2017) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Dacia K9K 804 is a 1,461 cc, inline-four, turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2005 and 2017. Developed in collaboration with Renault, it belongs to the K9K engine family and features a common rail direct injection system and variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). In standard tune it delivers 50 kW (68 PS), with torque output of 160 Nm, offering improved fuel efficiency and low-end pulling power ideal for urban and mixed driving conditions.

Fitted to core Dacia models including the Logan, Sandero, and Duster, the K9K 804 was engineered for economical operation and durability in high-mileage use. It provides strong low-RPM torque for city driving and highway overtaking, with emissions compliance achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF). Most units meet Euro 4 standards, with later models (2010 onward) achieving Euro 5 compliance depending on market and calibration.

One documented concern is carbon buildup in the intake manifold and EGR system, which can restrict airflow and lead to reduced performance or limp mode. This issue, referenced in Dacia Service Information Bulletin 079/2010, is commonly observed in vehicles used primarily for short trips or urban driving where engine temperatures remain low. From 2010, revised EGR valve duty cycles and updated DPF regeneration strategies were implemented to mitigate deposit accumulation.

Dacia Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2005–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2017 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).

K9K804 Technical Specifications

The Dacia K9K 804 is a 1,461 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for entry-level and fleet applications (2005–2017). It combines common rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances practicality with cost-effective ownership in European and emerging markets.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,461 cc
Fuel typeDiesel (ULSD, EN 590 compliant)
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke76.0 mm × 80.5 mm
Power output50 kW (68 PS) @ 4,000 rpm
Torque160 Nm @ 1,900 rpm
Fuel systemCommon rail direct injection (up to 1,600 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 4 (2005–2009); Euro 5 (2010–2017)
Compression ratio16.7:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerSingle variable geometry turbo (IHI RHF3)
Timing systemTiming belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years)
Oil type5W-30 or 5W-40 API CJ-4/SL
Dry weight128 kg
Practical Implications

The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires regular highway runs to maintain DPF regeneration and prevent soot loading. Use of API CJ-4/SL 5W-30 or 5W-40 oil ensures compatibility with the turbo and EGR system under variable loads. The common rail system demands ultra-low sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent injector clogging and high-pressure pump wear. Carbon buildup in the EGR and intake is common in short-trip use; periodic cleaning per Dacia SIB 079/2010 is recommended. Adherence to the 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt interval prevents interference engine damage.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires API CJ-4/SL specification (Dacia Owner's Manual 2010). ACEA B4 or A5/B5 compliant oils are acceptable.

Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2005–2009 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Euro 5 compliance from 2010 onward varies by market.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model years with minor calibration updates (Renault Group PT-2016).

Primary Sources

Dacia Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M01-8830, K9K-1020, SIB 079/2010

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)

ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption

K9K804 Compatible Models

The Dacia K9K 804 was used across Dacia's Logan/Sandero platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Renault for use in Eastern European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Logan MCV and revised ECU tuning in the Duster-and from 2010 the facelifted Sandero II adopted the K9K Evolution with improved DPF regeneration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Dacia
Years:
2005–2012
Models:
Logan
Variants:
1.5 dCi
View Source
Dacia Group PT-2016
Make:
Dacia
Years:
2008–2017
Models:
Sandero
Variants:
1.5 dCi
View Source
Dacia Group PT-2016
Make:
Dacia
Years:
2010–2017
Models:
Duster
Variants:
1.5 dCi
View Source
Dacia TIS Doc. M02-9110
Make:
Renault
Years:
2006–2012
Models:
Clio
Variants:
1.5 dCi
View Source
Renault EPC #R9-235
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Dacia TIS M01-8831). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('F' for K9K series). Pre-2010 models have a silver valve cover with black plastic timing cover; post-2010 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from K9K 704: K9K 804 has a variable geometry turbo (IHI RHF3) and DPF; 704 is non-DPF. Service parts require production date verification - EGR valves and DPF units for pre-2010 models are incompatible with Evolution variants due to calibration differences (Dacia SIB 079/2010).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Dacia TIS Doc. M01-8831

Location:

Stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Dacia TIS M01-8831).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2010: Silver valve cover with black plastic timing cover
  • Post-2010: All-black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

E C U:

ECU calibration differs between Logan, Sandero, and Duster applications; verify part number before replacement.

Evidence:

Dacia SIB 079/2010

E G R & D P F:

EGR valves and DPF units for pre-2010 K9K 804 engines are not compatible with post-2010 Evolution models due to updated calibration and regeneration logic.
Carbon Buildup Mitigation

Issue:

Urban driving and short trips lead to carbon buildup in EGR and intake manifold, restricting airflow and triggering limp mode.

Evidence:

Dacia SIB 079/2010

Recommendation:

Perform periodic cleaning per Dacia SIB 079/2010 and ensure regular highway runs for passive DPF regeneration.

Common Reliability Issues - DACIA K9K804

The K9K 804's primary reliability risk is EGR and intake carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short urban trips. Internal Dacia service reports from 2013 indicated a significant share of pre-2012 engines suffering from restricted EGR flow before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show emissions-related faults as a leading cause of MOT rejection for imported models. Extended service intervals and poor fuel quality increase risk, making adherence to OEM maintenance schedules critical.

Carbon buildup in EGR and intake manifold
Symptoms: Reduced power, rough idle, increased fuel consumption, DPF warning light, or limp mode activation.
Cause: Low engine temperatures from short trips prevent complete soot burn-off; oil vapors and exhaust gases form carbon deposits over time.
Fix: Clean or replace EGR valve and intake manifold per service bulletin; perform ECU adaptation reset and verify DPF regeneration function.
DPF clogging due to incomplete regeneration
Symptoms: Loss of power, increased exhaust backpressure, frequent active regeneration cycles, warning lights.
Cause: Predominantly urban driving prevents passive DPF regeneration; short trips do not reach required exhaust temperatures.
Fix: Initiate forced regeneration via diagnostic tool; if heavily clogged, clean or replace DPF; advise owner on driving patterns.
Turbocharger actuator sticking
Symptoms: Poor throttle response, over/under-boost DTCs, black smoke under load, inconsistent boost pressure.
Cause: Carbon buildup or mechanical wear in the VGT actuator linkage; exposure to high heat and soot accelerates failure.
Fix: Inspect and clean actuator linkage; replace if binding persists; recalibrate via diagnostic system after repair.
Timing belt failure due to neglect
Symptoms: Engine misfire, loss of compression, sudden stalling, or complete engine seizure.
Cause: Failure to replace timing belt at 120,000 km or 6-year interval; use of non-OEM parts accelerates wear.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, and idlers with OEM kit per schedule; verify cam/crank alignment post-installation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Dacia technical bulletins (2005-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about DACIA K9K804

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA K9K804.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialDACIA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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