The Renault K9K 712 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2007 and 2012. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with 8 valves and common rail direct injection, delivering outputs typically around 66 kW (90 PS) and 200 Nm of torque. Its compact, lightweight architecture prioritises fuel efficiency and urban drivability with enhanced power over earlier variants.
Fitted to models such as the Clio III, Mégane III, and Twingo II, the K9K 712 was engineered for economical city commuting and light family duties. It offers strong low-end torque for its size rather than outright power. Emissions compliance for most units was achieved to meet Euro 4 standards.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, noted in Renault Technical Note MEC‑07‑018. This issue, often linked to fuel contamination or lubrication deficiencies, led to revised pump designs and updated fuel filtration recommendations for affected production periods.
Production years 2007–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2012 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Renault K9K 712 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and city cars (2007-2012). 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 4 (and some market‑specific Euro 5) 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 | 66 kW (90 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Common rail direct injection (Delphi) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2011); Euro 5 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 fuel pump and turbo wear. The timing belt must be replaced at 100,000 km or 5 years to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. Use of high-quality, low-sulfur diesel is essential to prevent high-pressure fuel pump failure, as per Renault Technical Note MEC-07-018.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault TIS K9K-002). Supersedes ACEA B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2011 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682). Some 2011-2012 models meet Euro 5 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault TIS Doc. K9K-002).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K9K-002, K9K-005
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB): MEC-07-018
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
The Renault K9K 712 was used across Renault's B/C platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Twingo and revised exhaust manifolds in facelifted Mégane models-and from 2012 the Clio IV 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-002). 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 earlier K9K 647: The K9K 712 has higher power output (90 PS vs 65 PS) and uses an updated ECU. Service parts, particularly fuel pumps and timing belts, require verification against the engine's production date due to mid-cycle updates (Renault SIB MEC-07-018).
The K9K 712's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to poor fuel quality. Renault internal data indicated a notable number of cases before 100,000 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 (2007-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-712.
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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