The Renault K9K 700 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2001 and 2010. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), common rail direct injection, and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger. In its most common form, it delivered 65 kW (88 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, designed for urban efficiency and low‑end responsiveness.
Fitted to models such as the Clio II, Mégane II, and Kangoo, the K9K 700 was engineered for compact car practicality and frugal running costs. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet Euro 3 standards, with later variants achieving Euro 4.
One documented concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, often linked to fuel contamination or inadequate filtration. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 007, can lead to a complete loss of power and requires pump replacement.
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2010 models meet Euro 4 compliance (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K9K 700 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 fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver accessible low‑end torque and urban fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes cost‑effective ownership.
| 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) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens VDO common‑rail (up to 1,350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre‑2006); Euro 4 (2006–2010) | |
| Compression ratio | 18.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable, lag-free torque ideal for city driving but is sensitive to fuel quality. Using ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards is mandatory to prevent high-pressure pump failure. The timing chain is generally robust but requires periodic tensioner checks. Oil changes must use Renault RN0700 specification every 15,000 km to protect injectors and the turbo. EGR valve clogging is common in stop-start traffic, necessitating cleaning every 60,000 km to maintain performance and emissions.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault Owner's Manual). Compatible with ACEA B4.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 2001-2005 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 4 applies to 2006-2010 models.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Renault TIS Doc. MEC-103).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs MEC-101, MEC-102, MEC-103
Renault Technical Note: MEC 007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Renault K9K 700 was used across Renault's B/C platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced sump for the Kangoo and specific ECU mapping for the Clio-and from 2006 the facelifted Mégane II Phase 2 models adopted revised emissions hardware, creating minor ECU interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS MEC-050). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to the engine code (e.g., 'K' for K9K series). Pre-2006 models have a silver cam cover; post-2006 units may have a black or grey cover. Critical differentiation from K9K 800: K9K 700 has a 65 kW output and a specific ECU part number (e.g., 8200768123). Fuel pump part numbers also differ; always verify against the vehicle's build date.
The K9K 700's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel. Renault internal reports indicated a notable failure rate before 100,000 km in markets with inconsistent fuel standards, while UK DVSA data shows EGR-related faults as a common MOT failure point. Extended low-speed operation and infrequent oil changes accelerate carbon buildup, making fuel quality and maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2005-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-700.
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.
