The Renault F9Q 818 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2007 and 2011. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, common rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). In standard European specification, it produced 96 kW (130 PS) and 300 Nm of torque, offering a balance of performance and fuel economy for its class.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Mégane III and Scénic III, the F9Q 818 was engineered for responsive urban driving and relaxed motorway cruising. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 4 standards for most markets.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, potentially leading to engine stalling or non-start conditions. This issue, referenced in Renault's internal technical notes, is often linked to fuel contamination or inadequate filtration. Revised pump units and stricter fuel quality advisories were implemented in later production runs.

Production years 2007–2011 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault F9Q 818 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact MPVs and hatchbacks (2007-2011). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances everyday drivability with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,870 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 88.4 mm | |
| Power output | 96 kW (130 PS) | |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens VDO common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT turbo provides accessible torque from low revs, ideal for city traffic, but demands clean, ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and injectors. Renault RN0700 (5W-30) oil is mandatory to ensure proper lubrication of the timing chain and turbo bearings. Extended oil change intervals beyond 20,000 km or 12 months can accelerate wear. The DPF requires regular highway driving for passive regeneration; frequent short trips may trigger warning lights and necessitate forced regeneration at a dealer.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (ACEA C3 equivalent) specification (Renault Owner's Manual).
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2007–2011 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output is consistent across specified model range (Renault TIS Doc. F9Q-003).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F9Q-001, F9Q-002, F9Q-003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ACEA Oil Sequences: ACEA C3 Standard
The Renault F9Q 818 was used across Renault's Mégane III and Scénic III platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU mapping variations for different body styles-and no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS F9Q-004). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code 'F'. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its black plastic cam cover with 'dCi 130' branding. Differentiation from the lower-powered F9Q 816 (110 PS) is primarily via ECU software and turbo actuator calibration; physical parts are largely interchangeable. Always verify the engine code stamping before ordering critical components like the fuel pump or ECU.
The F9Q 818's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel. Renault service data indicates a notable number of pump replacements under warranty, while owner reports frequently cite stalling and hard starting as precursors. Fuel contamination and infrequent filter changes make adherence to fuel quality and maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2008-2012) and owner-reported failure data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F9Q-818.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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