The Renault K9K 649 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2001 and 2007. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with 8 valves and common‑rail direct injection, delivering outputs around 40 kW (54 PS) and 160 Nm of torque. Its compact, lightweight architecture prioritises fuel efficiency and low‑end torque for urban and regional driving.
Fitted to entry‑level models like the Clio II, Kangoo I, and Modus, the K9K 649 was engineered for economical, low‑maintenance motoring. Emissions compliance was achieved through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing most units to meet Euro 3 standards across its production run.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the high‑pressure fuel pump, particularly in higher‑mileage examples or those exposed to poor‑quality fuel. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note 4501, is often attributed to contaminant ingress or lubrication failure within the pump assembly. Renault addressed this by revising fuel filter specifications and recommending stricter fuel quality controls in subsequent service updates.
All production years (2001–2007) meet Euro 3 standards across all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Renault K9K 649 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and light commercial vehicles (2001-2007). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a simple SOHC 8-valve layout to deliver strong low‑end torque and exceptional fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards universally, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and cost‑effective serviceability.
| 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 kW (54 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Common‑rail direct injection (Siemens) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (2001–2007) | |
| Compression ratio | 18.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but demands strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals and high-quality low-sulfur diesel to protect the common-rail system. Renault RN0700 (5W-40) oil is critical for its high-pressure fuel pump lubrication properties. The timing belt is an interference design; failure causes catastrophic damage, making the 120,000 km replacement interval mandatory. Fuel filter changes every 40,000 km are essential to prevent pump failure per Technical Note 4501.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault Service Manual 70A). ACEA B3/B4 or equivalent diesel-specific oils are acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies universally to all 2001-2007 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault TIS Doc. K9K-01).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K9K-01, 4501
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault K9K 649 was used across Renault's B and light commercial platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Kangoo and simplified intake systems in the Modus-and featured consistent emissions hardware for Euro 3 compliance. 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-01). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('5' for 1.5L). All K9K 649 engines have a silver cam cover. Critical differentiation from later K9K variants: K9K 649 uses an 8-valve SOHC head and an early Siemens common-rail injection system with lower maximum pressure (1350 bar) compared to later 16-valve models.
The K9K 649's primary documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or fuel-contaminated vehicles. Renault internal reports noted this issue across the production run, while owner feedback often cites EGR valve clogging as a common emissions fault. Neglecting the 120,000 km timing belt interval is a critical risk, leading to total engine destruction.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2001-2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2007-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-649.
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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