The Renault K9K 636 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2007 and 2012. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with 8 valves and common rail direct injection, delivering outputs of 63 kW (86 PS) and 200 Nm of torque. Its cast iron block provides durability for everyday urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the Clio III, Mégane III, and Kangoo, the K9K 636 was engineered for economical performance and ease of maintenance. Emissions compliance for most units was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 4 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the EGR valve and cooler, particularly in higher‑mileage engines, as noted in Renault Technical Note MEG‑07‑015. This failure is often attributed to carbon buildup and thermal stress under sustained operation. Renault addressed this in subsequent K9K variants with revised EGR components.
All production years (2007–2012) meet Euro 4 compliance (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Renault K9K 636 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine engineered for compact and light commercial vehicles (2007-2012). It combines common rail direct injection with a SOHC 8‑valve architecture to deliver strong low-end torque and fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it offers a balance of reliability and low running costs for daily driving.
| 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 @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Common rail direct injection (Bosch) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed geometry turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (requires replacement at 120,000 km) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. Renault RN0700 (5W‑40) oil is critical for protecting engine components. The EGR valve and cooler failure issue, documented in Technical Note MEG‑07‑015, is most prevalent in engines exceeding 100,000 km without proper maintenance. Regular cleaning of the EGR system and using high-quality low-ash oil can mitigate this risk.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 specification (Renault Service Manual 60R). Equivalent ACEA B4 oils are acceptable if RN0700 is unavailable.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2007–2012 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output figures are for the standard 63 kW variant (Renault Group PT‑2008).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs MEG‑07‑015, Service Manual 60R
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
UNECE Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Renault K9K 636 was used across Renault's B‑segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Kangoo and revised exhaust manifolds for the Mégane III-creating minor part number variations. 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 60R). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine type ('K' for K9K family). All K9K 636 units feature a black plastic valve cover and a fixed-geometry turbocharger. Critical differentiation from the K9K 800: The 636 variant has a single ignition coil and glow plug module, while the 800 uses a revised ECU and higher-pressure fuel system. Always verify the engine code before ordering parts, as EGR components changed in 2009 (Renault Technical Note MEG‑09‑008).
The K9K 636's primary reliability risk is EGR valve and cooler failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage engines subjected to frequent short trips. Renault internal data indicated a measurable failure rate in engines exceeding 100,000 km, while timing belt neglect remains a leading cause of catastrophic engine failure. Extended oil change intervals and aggressive driving make adherence to the 120,000 km belt replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2007-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-636.
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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