Engine Code

Renault 852-750 Engine (2010–2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault 852 750 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features an all — aluminium block and head, a timing chain, and a high — pressure common — rail fuel system with piezoelectric injectors. This compact powerplant, delivering 66 kW (90 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, was engineered for efficiency and low emissions in Renault's smallest platforms.

Fitted primarily to the Clio IV and Captur I, the 852 750 prioritised urban agility an

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).

Renault 852-750 Technical Specifications

The Renault 852 750 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for subcompact hatchbacks and crossovers (2010-2018). It combines a high-pressure common-rail injection system with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive performance and class-leading fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it represents the mature evolution of Renault's small diesel engine family.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,461 cc
Fuel type
Diesel
Configuration
Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Bore × stroke
76.0 mm × 85.5 mm
Power output
66 kW (90 PS)
Torque
220 Nm @ 1,750 rpm
Fuel system
Delphi common-rail (up to 1,800 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
16.0:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell)
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
Renault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight
Not Available

Renault 852-750 Compatible Models

The Renault 852 750 was used across Renault's Clio IV and Captur I platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations and was not licensed to other manufacturers. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2012–2016
Models:
Clio IV (Phase 1)
Variants:
1.5 dCi 90
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. 77 11 304 800
Make:
Renault
Years:
2013–2018
Models:
Captur I (Phase 1)
Variants:
1.5 dCi 90
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. 77 11 304 800

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT 852-750 Compatible Models

The 852 750's primary reliability risk is DPF clogging, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or stop-start urban use. Renault internal service data indicated a high correlation between DPF issues and vehicles used primarily for short trips, while UK DVSA records show glow plug module failures as a common cause of starting problems. Short-trip driving and infrequent maintenance make adherence to service schedules critical.

DPF clogging
Symptoms: Loss of power, engine management light illuminated, vehicle enters limp mode, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Insufficient exhaust heat from frequent short trips prevents the DPF from regenerating, causing soot to accumulate and block the filter.
Fix: Perform a forced regeneration using a diagnostic tool. If regeneration fails, the DPF must be removed and professionally cleaned or replaced.
Glow plug or module failure
Symptoms: Difficulty starting, especially in cold weather, rough idle on startup, engine management light with glow plug circuit fault codes.
Cause: Glow plugs can wear out over time, or the control module can fail, preventing the plugs from heating the combustion chamber sufficiently for cold starts.
Fix: Test and replace faulty glow plugs and/or the glow plug control module with OEM parts.
Turbocharger actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, whistling noise from turbo, engine management light with boost pressure fault codes.
Cause: The variable-geometry turbo's electronic actuator can fail due to water ingress, carbon buildup, or general wear, preventing the vanes from adjusting correctly.
Fix: Replace the turbocharger actuator or the entire turbo unit. Ensure the vacuum lines and electrical connections are clean and secure.
Injector seal failure
Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, fuel smell, oil dilution, engine management light with injector circuit fault codes.
Cause: The copper sealing washers at the base of the injectors can fail, allowing combustion gases to leak into the cylinder head and fuel to leak into the engine oil.
Fix: Replace the injector seals and copper washers. It is recommended to remove and clean the injectors during this procedure.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2010-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT 852-750 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The 852 750 is generally very reliable, representing a significant improvement over the 843 721. The critical EGR cooler issue was resolved. With regular maintenance, particularly adhering to oil change intervals and ensuring DPF regeneration, these engines can easily surpass 200,000 km without major issues.

The most frequent issues are DPF clogging from short trips, glow plug module failures affecting cold starts, turbocharger actuator faults causing loss of boost, and injector seal leaks leading to oil dilution. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins.

This 1.5 dCi engine was used in the first phase of the Clio IV (2012-2016) and the Captur I (2013-2018). It was consistently badged as the 1.5 dCi 90 across both models, indicating its 90 PS power output.

Yes, it has good tuning potential. A simple ECU remap can safely increase power to around 110-115 PS and torque to 250+ Nm. The engine is robust, but supporting modifications like a performance air filter are recommended. It's a popular choice for economical tuning.

Exceptional. In a Clio IV, expect real-world figures of 4.0-5.0 L/100km (56-70 mpg UK) on a mixed run. Highway cruising can yield under 4.0 L/100km (70+ mpg UK). Its small displacement and diesel efficiency make it one of the most economical engines available.

Yes, it is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (which is rare), the pistons would collide with the valves, causing significant internal damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable and typically lasts the life of the engine with proper oil maintenance.

Renault specifies an oil meeting the RN0710 standard, typically a 5W-30 synthetic. This low-ash oil is specifically formulated for DPF-equipped engines to prevent filter clogging and ensure optimal performance.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Primary Sources

RENAULT Official Site

Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.

EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

Methodology

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

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

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