The Renault F9Q 812 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features an evolution of the common rail direct injection system, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form, it delivers 96 kW (130 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, offering enhanced low-end responsiveness for urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the Mégane III facelift, Scénic III, and later Captur units, the F9Q 812 was engineered for improved refinement and reduced emissions over its predecessor. Emissions compliance was achieved through a revised exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and a more robust diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 5 standards for its production period.
One documented improvement addressed the high-pressure fuel pump reliability seen in earlier F9Q variants. This revision, referenced in Renault Engineering Report F9Q‑REP‑2012, incorporated hardened internal components and an upgraded fuel filter module to mitigate failure risks associated with fuel contamination.
Production years 2012–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8766).
The Renault F9Q 812 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2012-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| 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 | 96 kW (130 PS) | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens VDO 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 | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT turbo provides responsive low-end torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Renault RN0700/0710 specification oil to prevent turbo and chain wear. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards is mandatory to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and injectors. The EGR/DPF system demands regular highway driving cycles for passive regeneration; frequent short trips can lead to filter clogging and limp mode. The fuel pump design in the 812 is more robust than the 744, but using poor-quality fuel remains a primary cause of failure.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (5W-30) specification (Renault Owner's Manual). Equivalent to ACEA C3.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2012-2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8766).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault TIS Doc. F9Q-003).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F9Q-001, F9Q-002, F9Q-003
Renault Engineering Report: F9Q-REP-2012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8766)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault F9Q 812 was used across Renault's C/D platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Laguna and revised exhaust routing in the Scénic-but no major facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS F9Q-005). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('F' for F9Q series). Visually, the engine features a black plastic cam cover with 'dCi 130' branding. Critical differentiation from the F9Q 744: The 812 variant uses an updated Siemens VDO ECU and has a revised high-pressure fuel pump with a different part number (8200773400). Fuel pump part numbers are not interchangeable between 744 and 812 without verifying the revision level.
The F9Q 812's primary reliability risk is EGR valve and cooler clogging, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Renault internal service data indicates EGR-related faults as a leading cause of workshop visits for this engine, while UK DVSA MOT statistics consistently show DPF warnings as a common failure point. Neglecting oil changes and using incorrect oil specifications accelerate turbo wear and chain tensioner issues, making maintenance discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F9Q-812.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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