The Renault K9K 647 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 typically around 50 kW (68 PS) and 160 Nm of torque. Its compact, lightweight architecture prioritises fuel efficiency and urban drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Clio II, Mégane II, and Kangoo I, the K9K 647 was engineered for economical city commuting and light utility duties. It offers strong low-end torque for its size rather than outright power. Emissions compliance for most units was achieved to meet Euro 3 standards.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the EGR valve and cooler, noted in Renault Technical Note MEC‑06‑015. This issue, often linked to soot accumulation and thermal cycling, led to revised component designs and updated cleaning procedures for affected production periods.
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2008 models may have Euro 4 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The Renault K9K 647 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine engineered for compact and light commercial vehicles (2001-2008). It combines common rail direct injection with a SOHC 8‑valve head to deliver strong low-RPM torque and efficient urban drivability. Designed to meet Euro 3 (and some market‑specific Euro 4) standards, it balances frugality with practical performance.
| 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 | 50 kW (68 PS) | |
| Torque | 160 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 (requires periodic replacement) | |
| 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 lacks refinement at higher speeds. Strict adherence to 20,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using RN0700 (5W-40) is critical to prevent injector and turbo wear. The timing belt must be replaced at 100,000 km or 5 years to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. EGR system cleaning every 60,000 km is recommended to prevent valve sticking and cooler clogging, as per Renault Technical Note MEC-06-015.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault TIS K9K-001). Supersedes ACEA B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2006 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681). Some 2006-2008 models meet Euro 4 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault TIS Doc. K9K-001).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K9K-001, K9K-004
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB): MEC-06-015
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
The Renault K9K 647 was used across Renault's A/B platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced sump in the Kangoo and revised engine mounts in the Mégane-and from 2005 the Clio III adopted a different engine family, creating 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 TIS K9K-001). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('K' for K9K series). Visually, it can be identified by its grey plastic intake manifold and the "1.5 dCi" badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from later K9K 798: The K9K 647 uses a Delphi fuel system and fixed-geometry turbo, while later models use different injectors and variable-geometry turbos. Service parts, particularly timing belts and EGR components, require verification against the engine's production date due to mid-cycle updates (Renault SIB MEC-06-015).
The K9K 647's primary reliability risk is EGR valve and cooler failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Renault internal data indicated a notable number of cases before 80,000 km, while owner reports frequently cite timing belt failure as a major concern if neglected. Infrequent oil changes and use of low-quality diesel make adherence to the RN0700 specification and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2001-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-647.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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