The Renault K9K 728 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2007 and 2018. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, common rail direct injection, and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger. In its standard 64 kW (87 PS) tune, it delivers 200 Nm of torque, with the variable nozzle turbo (VNT) enabling strong low‑rpm response for urban drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Clio III, Mégane III, and Dacia Duster, the K9K 728 was engineered for compact car efficiency and low‑end pulling power. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and, in later models, a diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards depending on the production year and market.
One documented concern is EGR valve and cooler clogging, leading to reduced performance and increased emissions. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 0078 A, is often caused by short‑trip driving cycles that prevent the system from reaching optimal operating temperature. A revised EGR valve design was introduced for certain 2012+ applications.
Production years 2007–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2018 models meet Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K9K 728 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini and compact SUV applications (2007-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑end torque and frugal fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it balances urban agility with long-distance economy.
| 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 | 64 kW (87 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP1 common‑rail (up to 1,350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2011); Euro 5 (2011–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 | |
| 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 low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires diligent 15,000 km oil changes to prevent chain wear and turbo lag. Renault RN0700 (5W-40) oil is critical for its high-temperature stability and soot-handling properties. Short trips should be minimized to allow the EGR/DPF systems to regenerate fully. The Bosch CP1 pump is sensitive to fuel contamination; only ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) should be used. Post-2012 models feature an updated EGR valve; pre-2012 units are prone to clogging per Renault Technical Note MEC 0078 A.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault Technical Note MEC 0078 A). Equivalent to ACEA B4.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2007-2010 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 compliance is standard for 2011-2018 models.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Renault TIS Doc. MEC-A200).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs MEC-A102, MEC-A105, MEC-A110
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault K9K 728 was used across Renault's B/C platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Duster and revised cooling for the Mégane-and from 2011 the addition of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) for Euro 5 compliance, creating minor service differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the fuel filter (Renault TIS MEC-A090). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('K' for K9K series). Pre-2011 models lack a DPF and have a simpler exhaust manifold; post-2011 units feature a DPF housing. Critical differentiation from K9K 896: The K9K 728 has a single-mass flywheel and a Garrett GT1544V turbo, while the 896 uses a dual-mass flywheel and a different turbo model. Service parts, particularly for the EGR system, require production date verification due to design updates (Renault Technical Note MEC 0078 A).
The K9K 728's primary reliability risk is EGR system clogging, with elevated incidence in urban, short-trip driving. Renault internal reports noted a high frequency of EGR-related faults in vehicles with predominantly city-based mileage, while UK DVSA MOT data shows EGR/DPF faults as a leading cause of failure for this engine. Inadequate warm-up cycles make regular highway driving or proactive cleaning critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2010-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-728.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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