The Renault K9K 646 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2001 and 2010. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) layout with 8 valves and common-rail direct injection. In standard form, it delivered 65 kW (88 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end pulling power for urban and highway use.
Fitted to models such as the Clio II, Mégane II, and Kangoo, the K9K 646 was engineered for fuel-efficient, low-maintenance motoring with responsive torque delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) on later models and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 3 standards for its primary production run, with some later variants achieving Euro 4.
One documented reliability concern is premature failure of the dual-mass flywheel, which can lead to drivetrain vibration and clutch issues. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 0567, is often linked to the high torque output relative to the engine's compact size. Later production batches incorporated a revised flywheel design to improve durability.
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2010 models may have Euro 4 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Renault K9K 646 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact hatchbacks and vans (2001-2010). It combines common-rail direct injection with a SOHC 8‑valve head to deliver strong low-end torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 3 (and some market‑specific Euro 4) standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| 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 | 65 kW (88 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Common-rail direct injection (Delphi) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre‑2006); Euro 4 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 18.8:1 | |
| 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 strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and injector wear. Renault RN0700 (5W-40) oil is critical due to its specific formulation for common-rail diesel systems. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce soot buildup in the EGR system. The timing belt drives the injection pump and must be replaced at 120,000 km; failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. The dual-mass flywheel is a known wear item; inspect for vibration or noise during clutch replacement.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault Owner's Manual Ref. 77 11 308 543). Compatible with ACEA B4.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2006 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). Some 2006-2010 models meet Euro 4 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output figures are for standard atmospheric conditions (Renault TIS Doc. MEC 0567).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs MEC 0567, MEC 1234
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Renault K9K 646 was used across Renault's B/C‑segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Kangoo and revised exhaust manifolds for the Mégane II-creating minor service part 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 TIS MEC 0567). The full engine designation is 'K9K 646'. Visually, it can be identified by its black plastic cam cover with 'dCi' embossed on top. Critical differentiation from the similar K9K 798: The 646 uses a Delphi fuel injection system, while the 798 uses a Bosch system. Service parts, particularly for the fuel system and ECU, are not interchangeable between 646 and 798 variants.
The K9K 646's primary reliability risk is dual-mass flywheel failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or stop-start urban driving. Renault internal service data indicated a notable number of flywheel replacements under warranty, while owner reports frequently cite EGR valve clogging as a secondary concern. Adherence to correct oil specification and service intervals is critical for long-term engine health.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2001-2010) and owner-reported failure data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-646.
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.
