The Renault K9K 629 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2001 and 2008. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with 8 valves and common rail direct injection, delivering outputs ranging from 40 kW (54 PS) to 65 kW (88 PS) and torque figures of 160–200 Nm. Its compact dimensions and lightweight cast-iron block make it ideal for B-segment vehicles requiring strong low-rpm torque for urban drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Clio II, Kangoo I, and Twingo, the K9K 629 was engineered for economical, low-maintenance transportation with a focus on fuel efficiency and emissions control. Emissions compliance was achieved through a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing conformity with Euro 3 standards for its production period.
One documented concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, potentially leading to sudden engine shutdown. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note CLI‑05‑2004, is often attributed to fuel contamination or inadequate filtration. Later K9K variants incorporated revised pump internals and stricter fuel quality warnings.
Production years 2001–2008 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Renault K9K 629 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact city cars and vans (2001-2008). It combines common rail direct injection with SOHC 8‑valve architecture to deliver strong low-end torque and exceptional fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritises efficiency and compact packaging for urban mobility.
| 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 | 40–65 kW (54–88 PS) | |
| Torque | 160–200 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP1 common‑rail (up to 1,350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 18.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (requires 100,000 km replacement) | |
| 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 10,000-15,000 km oil change intervals using Renault RN0700 (5W-40) to prevent turbo bearing wear. The high-pressure fuel pump is sensitive to fuel contamination; only ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards should be used. The timing belt is generally reliable but must be replaced at 100,000 km to prevent interference engine damage. Pre-2005 units should be monitored for fuel pump symptoms per Technical Note CLI-05-2004.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault Service Manual 1320A). ACEA B4 compliant.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2001-2008 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output varies by model and ECU mapping (Renault Group PT-2003).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs 1320A, CLI-05-2004
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Renault K9K 629 was used across Renault's Clio II/Kangoo I platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-lighter flywheel in the Twingo-and from 2004 minor ECU revisions for emissions, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Service Manual 1320A). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to engine type ('K' for K9K 629 in many applications). Visually, it features a simple metal cam cover without "16v" branding and a prominent Bosch CP1 fuel pump on the cylinder head. Critical differentiation from later K9K 700: K9K 629 uses an earlier ECU with a specific diagnostic connector type under the bonnet. Fuel system parts require verification against the specific engine serial number prefix.
The K9K 629's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel or neglecting filter changes. Renault internal data noted this as a significant service concern for pre-2005 builds, while general owner reports frequently cite EGR valve clogging. Adherence to fuel quality standards and 15,000 km service intervals is critical for longevity.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2003-2007) and owner-reported failure patterns. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-629.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with RENAULT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
RENAULT Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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.
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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
