The Renault K9K 706 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium cylinder head, common rail direct injection, and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger. In standard form it delivered 66 kW (90 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, offering a blend of compact size and adequate low‑end pull for urban driving.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Clio III, Twingo II, and Modus, as well as the Nissan Micra K13 and Dacia Sandero I…

Production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K9K 706 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini and city car applications (2008-2015). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver adequate low‑rpm torque and compact packaging. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances urban efficiency with basic performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,461 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 80.5 mm | |
Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) | |
Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP1 common‑rail (up to 1,350 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 16.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 110 kg |
The Renault K9K 706 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Modus and specific ECU calibrations for the Twingo-creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The K9K 706's primary reliability risk is dual-mass flywheel (DMF) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent stop-start driving or hill starts. Renault internal service data indicated a high replacement rate for this component, while owner reports frequently cite clutch judder as the first symptom. Urban driving cycles increase stress on the drivetrain, making proactive replacement at the first sign of trouble critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2008-2015) and owner-reported failure data (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 706 is generally robust mechanically, with the timing chain and core engine components proving durable. Its main long-term weakness is the dual-mass flywheel, which often requires replacement. With proactive maintenance, especially timely DMF and clutch changes, and regular oil changes, it can be a dependable engine for high mileage.
The most frequent issues are dual-mass flywheel failure (causing judder), EGR valve clogging (leading to rough running), turbo actuator faults (causing loss of power), and glow plug failures (causing cold-start issues). These are well-documented in Renault service notes and owner forums.
The K9K 706 1.5 dCi 90 engine was used in the Renault Clio III (2008-2012), Twingo II (2008-2014), and Modus (2008-2012). It was also fitted to the Nissan Micra K13 (2010-2015) and Dacia Sandero I (2008-2012) as part of the Renault-Nissan alliance.
Yes, the K9K 706 responds well to ECU remapping. A Stage 1 remap can safely increase power to around 110-115 PS and torque to 240-250 Nm. The standard internals are generally strong enough for this level of tuning, but supporting modifications like a better clutch are recommended due to the increased torque.
Excellent for its era. In a Renault Clio III, expect combined figures of around 4.5 L/100km (63 mpg UK). Real-world consumption typically ranges from 50-65 mpg UK depending on the model, driving style, and condition. Its strength is frugal urban and motorway cruising.
Yes. The K9K 706 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (though rare), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable with proper oil maintenance.
Renault specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting the RN0700 standard. Using the correct low-ash, low-SAPS oil is crucial for protecting the turbocharger, maintaining the DPF (if equipped on later variants), and ensuring the longevity of the timing chain.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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RENAULT Official Site
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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.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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