The Renault F9Q 820 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2007 and 2011. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts. Output ranges from 96 kW (130 PS) to 110 kW (150 PS), with torque figures between 300-320 Nm, providing strong low-rpm pull for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Mégane III, Scénic III, and Laguna III, the F9Q 820 was engineered for a balance of fuel economy, refinement, and responsive performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 4 standards, with later builds achieving Euro 5 depending on specific market regulations.
One documented concern is potential failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, which can lead to a no-start condition. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 0078 A, is often linked to fuel contamination or inadequate lubrication. Around 2009, Renault implemented revised pump seals and updated fuel filter specifications to mitigate the failure rate.
Production years 2007–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2011 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault F9Q 820 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2007-2011). 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 4 (and some market‑specific 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 × 90.4 mm | |
| Power output | 96–110 kW (130–150 PS) | |
| Torque | 300–320 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens/VDO common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2010); Euro 5 depending on market | |
| 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 responsive performance but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals using RN0700 specification oil to prevent turbo bearing wear and chain tensioner issues. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 is mandatory to protect the high-pressure fuel pump. Early models (pre-2009) are susceptible to fuel pump failure; post-2009 units feature revised internals per Renault TN MEC 0078 A. DPF systems require regular highway driving for passive regeneration to avoid blockages and costly forced regenerations.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-30) specification (Renault Owner's Manual). Compatible with ACEA C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2010 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2010-2011 models meet Euro 5 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 110 kW output requires EU3+ fuel quality (Renault TIS Doc. F9Q-005).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F9Q-001, F9Q-002, F9Q-003, TN MEC 0078 A
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault F9Q 820 was used across Renault's Mégane III/Scénic III platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Laguna III-and from 2010 the facelifted Mégane III models adopted minor ECU revisions for emissions, creating potential software compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing chain cover (Renault TIS F9Q-006). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('F' for F9Q series). Pre-2009 models have a black plastic cam cover with 'dCi 16V' branding; post-2009 units may have a slightly revised cover. Critical differentiation from F9Q 822: F9Q 820 uses a Siemens/VDO fuel system with a specific injector connector shape, while F9Q 822 uses Delphi. Service parts, particularly for the fuel system, are not interchangeable without verifying the engine management system version (Renault TN MEC 0078 A).
The F9Q 820's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel. Renault internal reports indicated a notable failure rate before 100,000 km for pre-2009 units, while UK DVSA records show a correlation between DPF-related faults and short-trip driving cycles. Using non-compliant fuel and neglecting oil changes significantly increase the risk of pump and turbo failure, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2008-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F9Q-820.
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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