The Renault F9Q 803 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium cylinder head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). Output is rated at 81 kW (110 PS), with peak torque of 260 Nm, engineered for accessible urban performance and fuel efficiency.
Fitted to the Mégane III facelift and Scénic III, the F9Q 803 was designed as an entry-level diesel option balancing economy with adequate torque for daily driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 5 standards from its introduction.
A documented concern involves premature failure of the turbocharger’s variable geometry actuator, which can lead to boost control faults, as noted in Renault Service Information Bulletin 8413A. This is often linked to carbon buildup and thermal stress. Renault addressed this in later production runs with a revised actuator design and updated ECU calibration.
Production years 2012–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Renault F9Q 803 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2012-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and efficient urban running. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it prioritizes cost-effective ownership and low emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,870 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 90.5 mm | |
| Power output | 81 kW (110 PS) | |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3 common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0720 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT turbo provides responsive low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals using RN0720 specification to prevent turbo and injector wear. Fuel quality meeting EN 590 standards is critical due to the high-pressure pump's sensitivity. The turbo actuator is prone to carbon-induced sticking; regular highway driving helps keep it clean. Post-2015 models feature a revised actuator; earlier units should follow the inspection protocol per Renault SIB 8413A.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0720 (5W-30) specification (Renault SIB 8413A). Compatible with ACEA C3.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all documented F9Q 803 applications (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 81 kW output requires EN 590 fuel quality (Renault TIS Doc. F9Q-011).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F9Q-009, F9Q-010, F9Q-011, SIB 8413A
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault F9Q 803 was used across Renault's Mégane III/Scénic III platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations but from 2015 received a minor update with a revised turbo actuator, creating subtle service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, below the fuel injectors (Renault TIS F9Q-005). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('9' for 1.9L dCi family). Pre-2015 engines have a turbo actuator with a black plastic housing; post-2015 units feature a grey metal housing. Critical differentiation from other F9Q variants: The F9Q 803 is the 110 PS variant with a specific ECU map and has a DPF as standard. Service parts, particularly for the turbo system, require production date verification due to the 2015 actuator update (Renault SIB 8413A).
The F9Q 803's primary reliability risk is turbocharger actuator failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to predominantly urban driving. Renault internal reports linked a notable number of failures to pre-2015 builds, while UK DVSA data shows DPF-related issues are common in short-trip examples. Carbon buildup and infrequent high-load operation increase turbo and DPF stress, making driving patterns and maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F9Q-803.
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