The Renault F9Q 872 is a 1,870 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2006 and 2010. It features a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head, and a variable-geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering outputs between 88–103 kW (120–140 PS). Common rail direct injection enables precise fuel metering for improved efficiency and strong low-rpm torque for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Mégane III, Scénic III, and Laguna III, the F9Q 872 was engineered for responsive performance and improved refinement over its predecessor. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and an oxidising catalyst, allowing these units to meet Euro 4 standards across their production run.
One documented concern is premature failure of the variable-geometry turbocharger actuator, which can lead to loss of boost control. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Bulletin 6012B, is often linked to carbon buildup or electrical faults in the actuator mechanism. Renault addressed this in later F9Q variants with revised actuator designs and updated ECU software.
Production years 2006–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Renault F9Q 872 is a 1,870 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size family vehicles (2006-2010). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver enhanced low‑end response and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it offers a balance of performance and reduced emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 88–103 kW (120–140 PS) | |
| Torque | 270–320 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3 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 | Belt-driven (requires scheduled replacement) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The variable-geometry turbo provides improved low-RPM response and reduced turbo lag compared to fixed-geometry units, but the actuator mechanism is susceptible to carbon fouling and electrical failure. Strict adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil changes with RN0700/RN0710 specification is critical to protect the turbo and fuel system. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards is mandatory. The timing belt must be replaced at 120,000 km or 5 years to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. Turbo actuator diagnostics and cleaning are recommended as preventative maintenance per Renault SIB 6012B.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (5W-40) specification (Renault SIB 6012B). ACEA B4 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2006–2010 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Peak output requires fuel meeting EN 590 Class B+ (Renault TIS Doc. F9Q‑009).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs F9Q‑007, F9Q‑008, F9Q‑009, SIB 6012B
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
European Economic Community Directive 80/1269/EEC
The Renault F9Q 872 was used across Renault's Mégane III and Laguna III platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts for the Scénic III MPV and revised exhaust manifolds for the Kangoo-creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the cylinder head (Renault TIS F9Q‑012). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('F' for 1.9L dCi). Visually, the F9Q 872 can be identified by its black plastic rocker cover with "dCi" branding and the Garrett variable-geometry turbocharger on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from the F9Q 800: The F9Q 872 uses a variable-geometry turbo (VGT) with an electronic actuator, while the 800 uses a fixed-geometry unit. Service parts for the turbo system and ECU are not interchangeable between these variants.
The F9Q 872's primary reliability risk is variable-geometry turbocharger actuator failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles operating in stop-start urban conditions. Renault internal reports from 2009 indicated a significant number of actuators required replacement before 100,000 km, while owner club data suggests EGR valve clogging remains a frequent secondary issue. Extended oil change intervals and contaminated fuel make adherence to the RN0700/RN0710 oil specification and strict fuel filter changes critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2008-2011) and owner club aggregated failure statistics (2012-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT F9Q-872.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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