Engine Code

RENAULT F9Q-818 engine (2007–2011) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

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.

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2007–2011 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

F9Q-818 Technical Specifications

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.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,870 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke82.0 mm × 88.4 mm
Power output96 kW (130 PS)
Torque300 Nm @ 1,750 rpm
Fuel systemSiemens VDO common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 4
Compression ratio16.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett)
Timing systemChain (front‑mounted)
Oil typeRenault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight148 kg
Practical Implications

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.

Data Verification Notes

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).

Primary Sources

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

F9Q-818 Compatible Models

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.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2011
Models:
Mégane III (Phase 1)
Variants:
1.9 dCi 130
View Source
Renault Group PT-2020
Make:
Renault
Years:
2009–2011
Models:
Scénic III (Phase 1)
Variants:
1.9 dCi 130
View Source
Renault Group PT-2020
Identification Guidance

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.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Renault TIS Doc. F9Q-004

Location:

Stamped on front face of cylinder block, near gearbox flange (Renault TIS F9Q-004).

Visual Cues:

  • Black plastic cam cover with 'dCi 130' branding.
  • Garrett VGT turbocharger with visible actuator arm.
Compatibility Notes

E C U:

ECU part numbers are model and year-specific. Swapping requires coding with Renault diagnostic tools.

Evidence:

Renault SIB F9Q-01

Fuel System:

High-pressure fuel pumps for F9Q 818 are specific to this power output and not interchangeable with F9Q 816 (110 PS) units without ECU remapping.

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT F9Q-818

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.

High-pressure fuel pump failure
Symptoms: Engine stalling, especially when hot; difficulty starting; illuminated MIL; loss of power.
Cause: Internal wear or seizure of pump components, often accelerated by contaminated fuel or inadequate filtration.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump with the latest OEM-specified unit; always replace the fuel filter simultaneously and flush the fuel lines if contamination is suspected.
EGR valve and cooler clogging
Symptoms: Rough idle, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, DPF warning light, excessive smoke.
Cause: Accumulation of soot and carbon deposits within the EGR valve and cooler passages, restricting exhaust gas flow.
Fix: Remove and clean the EGR valve and cooler assembly per OEM procedure; replace if heavily clogged or damaged; reset adaptations after repair.
Turbocharger actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, whistling noise, overboost/underboost fault codes, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Wear or sticking of the VGT actuator mechanism, often due to carbon buildup or failure of the internal diaphragm/spring.
Fix: Replace the turbocharger actuator or the entire turbocharger assembly with an OEM part; perform boost pressure adaptation after installation.
Glow plug system faults
Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather; engine misfire on startup; glow plug warning light.
Cause: Failure of individual glow plugs or the glow plug control module due to age, electrical overload, or corrosion.
Fix: Diagnose faulty glow plugs or control module using OEM diagnostics; replace defective components with OEM-specified parts; clear fault codes after repair.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2008-2012) and owner-reported failure data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about RENAULT F9Q-818

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F9Q-818.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Primary Sources

RENAULT Official Site

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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.

Official Documentation

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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.

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UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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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