Engine Code

Renault F9Q-804 Engine (2012–2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault F9Q 804 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) for responsive power delivery. Output is rated at 96 kW (130 PS), with peak torque of 320 Nm.

Fitted primarily to the Mégane III facelift and Scénic III, the F9Q 804 was engineered for a balance of refinement, mid — range torque, and improved fuel

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2012–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).

Renault F9Q-804 Technical Specifications

The Renault F9Q 804 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact models (2012-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong mid‑range pull and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,870 cc
Fuel type
Diesel
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Bore × stroke
80.0 mm × 93.0 mm
Power output
96 kW (130 PS)
Torque
320 Nm @ 1,750 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 RN0700 / RN0710 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight
165 kg

Renault F9Q-804 Compatible Models

The Renault F9Q 804 was used across Renault's C platform vehicles with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations, ensuring broad parts interchangeability with the earlier F9Q 762, though ECU software is specific to the model and year. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2012–2016
Models:
Mégane III (BM/CM facelift)
Variants:
1.6 dCi 130
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. 77 11 308 791
Make:
Renault
Years:
2012–2016
Models:
Scénic III (JM facelift)
Variants:
1.6 dCi 130
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. 77 11 308 791

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT F9Q-804 Compatible Models

The F9Q 804's primary reliability risk is EGR cooler failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips or overheating events. Renault internal data indicated a notable failure rate, while UK DVSA records show DPF-related issues are common in urban vehicles. Using correct fuel and oil, and ensuring regular DPF regeneration, are critical for longevity.

EGR cooler failure
Symptoms: White exhaust smoke, unexplained coolant loss, engine overheating, sweet smell from exhaust.
Cause: Internal corrosion or thermal stress causing the EGR cooler to develop leaks, allowing coolant to enter the exhaust or intake system.
Fix: Replace the EGR cooler assembly with the latest OEM-specified part per Renault Technical Note MEC 012 A; flush cooling system if contamination occurred.
High-pressure fuel pump failure
Symptoms: Engine stalling, especially under load or at high RPM, difficulty starting, fuel pressure DTCs.
Cause: Internal wear or seizure of the Bosch CP3 pump, often accelerated by fuel contamination or insufficient lubrication from degraded oil.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump assembly with the latest OEM-specified part; flush fuel lines if contamination is suspected.
DPF regeneration problems
Symptoms: Warning light on dashboard, reduced engine power (limp mode), increased fuel consumption, unusual exhaust smell.
Cause: Insufficient conditions for passive regeneration (short trips, low speeds) leading to excessive soot accumulation in the DPF.
Fix: Perform a forced regeneration using diagnostic equipment if possible; if severely clogged, the DPF may require removal for cleaning or replacement.
Turbocharger actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, whistling or hissing noises from turbo, overboost/underboost DTCs, black smoke.
Cause: Wear or sticking in the variable geometry turbo (VGT) actuator mechanism, often due to carbon buildup or vacuum leaks.
Fix: Inspect and clean the actuator linkage; replace the actuator or entire turbocharger assembly if faulty, per Renault service procedures.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT F9Q-804 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The F9Q 804 is generally robust with strong torque, but its longevity depends on maintenance. The EGR cooler is a known weak point, especially if the vehicle is overheated or used for frequent short trips. Using correct Renault-spec oil (RN0700/0710) and ensuring regular DPF regeneration are crucial for achieving high mileage without major issues.

The most frequent issues are EGR cooler failure leading to coolant loss, high-pressure fuel pump failure causing stalling, DPF clogging from short trips, and turbo actuator faults leading to boost problems. These are well-documented in Renault service notes and owner reports.

The F9Q 804 1.6 dCi engine was primarily used in the facelifted Mégane III (2012-2016) and Scénic III (2012-2016). It was a direct successor to the F9Q 762, offering the same power output but with updated ECU calibration for specific model years.

Yes, the F9Q 804 responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes can safely increase power to around 150-160 PS and torque to 350-370 Nm. The standard internals are quite strong. However, aggressive tuning can exacerbate existing weaknesses like the EGR cooler or fuel pump, so supporting modifications are recommended.

Official combined figures are approximately 4.5-4.8 L/100km (approx. 59-63 mpg UK), depending on the model. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 5.5-6.5 L/100km (43-51 mpg UK). Highway cruising can achieve under 4.5 L/100km (63+ mpg UK), while city driving will be higher.

Yes. The F9Q 804 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. While chain failure is less common than on some contemporaries, it underscores the importance of using correct oil and adhering to service schedules.

Renault mandates the use of oil meeting their RN0700 or RN0710 specification, typically a 5W-30 fully synthetic grade. Using the correct oil is vital for protecting the turbocharger, timing chain, and especially the high-pressure fuel pump. Change intervals should not exceed 20,000 km or 12 months.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.

Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

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

Data Compilation

All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.

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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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