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 runnin…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The K9K 700 is generally robust if maintained well. Its main weakness is the high-pressure fuel pump, which is sensitive to poor fuel quality. Using premium diesel and changing the fuel filter regularly is crucial. With proper care, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 km.
The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump failure, clogged EGR valves, and faulty turbo actuators. Glow plug and relay failures are also common, especially in colder climates. These are well-documented in Renault service notes.
The K9K 700 was primarily used in the Renault Clio II (2001-2005), Mégane II (2003-2006), and Kangoo (2001-2010). It was also found in the Nissan Micra K12 (2003-2007) as part of the Renault-Nissan alliance.
Yes, the K9K 700 responds well to ECU remapping. A Stage 1 remap can safely increase power to around 100-110 PS and torque to 220-240 Nm. The stock turbo and internals are generally reliable at this level, but supporting modifications like a better intercooler are recommended for longevity.
Excellent for its era. In a Renault Clio 1.5 dCi, expect around 4.5 L/100km (63 mpg UK) on a combined cycle. Real-world figures typically range from 55-65 mpg UK, depending on driving style and vehicle condition.
Yes. The K9K 700 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (which is rare but possible), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. Regular oil changes help ensure chain longevity.
Renault specifies a 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting the RN0700 standard. This is critical for protecting the turbocharger and maintaining the correct viscosity for the high-pressure fuel system. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months.
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.