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.

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).
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.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel (ULSD, EN 590 compliant) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 80.5 mm | |
| Power output | 50 kW (68 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Common rail direct injection (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2005–2009); Euro 5 (2010–2017) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable geometry turbo (IHI RHF3) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | 5W-30 or 5W-40 API CJ-4/SL | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
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.
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).
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
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.
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).
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.
Analysis derived from Dacia technical bulletins (2005-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA K9K804.
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