The Renault K9K 608 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with 8 valves and common rail direct injection. In standard form it delivered 63 kW (86 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, offering a blend of urban efficiency and accessible low-end pull for compact vehicles.
Fitted to models like the Clio III, Modus, and Twingo II, the K9K 608 was engineered for cost-effective ownership and agile city driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the dual-mass flywheel (DMF), which can develop excessive wear or internal damper failure. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Bulletin CLI‑05‑2007, often manifests as drivetrain shudder or noise under load. Later K9K variants incorporated a revised flywheel design for improved durability.
Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Renault K9K 608 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact models (2005-2010). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with common rail injection to deliver accessible low-end torque and frugal urban consumption. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances everyday drivability with low running costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 80.5 mm | |
| Power output | 63 kW (86 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Common rail direct injection (Delphi) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to protect the turbo bearing and injection system. Renault RN0700 (5W-40) oil is critical for maintaining fuel system and turbo longevity. The timing belt must be replaced every 120,000 km or 5 years. The dual-mass flywheel is a known wear item; drivetrain shudder under load warrants inspection per SIB CLI-05-2007. The EGR system requires periodic cleaning to prevent clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 specification (Renault Owner's Manual). ACEA B4 is the underlying standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005-2010 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output is consistent across specified fuel grades (Renault TIS Doc. K9K-001).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K9K-001, K9K-002
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB): CLI-05-2007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
The Renault K9K 608 was used across Renault's Clio III and Modus platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU calibrations for the Twingo II, creating no significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS K9K-001). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code 'K9K'. Visually, the engine has a black plastic cam cover with 'dCi' embossed. Differentiation from later K9K 700/800: The K9K 608 uses a Delphi fuel injection system and a fixed-geometry turbo, while later variants use Denso systems and variable-geometry turbos. The 608 also has an 8-valve SOHC head, whereas some later K9Ks are 16-valve.
The K9K 608's primary documented concern is dual-mass flywheel (DMF) failure, with higher incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent stop-start driving or towing. Renault internal data indicated a measurable rate of DMF replacement for affected units, while general owner feedback highlights EGR valve clogging and injector seal leaks as common faults. Adherence to the 20,000 km oil change interval is critical for turbo and injector longevity.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2005-2010) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-608.
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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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