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 fo…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The K9K 728 is generally robust with a simple chain-driven design. Its main weakness is the EGR system, prone to clogging with city driving. With regular highway runs, timely oil changes (using RN0700 5W-40), and proactive EGR maintenance, it can easily exceed 200,000 km.
The most frequent issues are EGR valve/cooler clogging, turbo actuator failure, glow plug/module faults, and rocker cover gasket leaks. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins, with the EGR problem being the most prevalent in urban-use vehicles.
This engine was widely used in the Clio III (2007-2012), Mégane III (2008-2015), and Dacia Duster (2010-2018). It was also found in the Nissan Micra K13 (2010-2017) as part of the Renault-Nissan alliance, typically in the 85-87 PS variant.
Yes, modest tuning is possible. An ECU remap can safely increase output to around 74-77 kW (100-105 PS) and 220-230 Nm. The stock turbo and internals can handle this. More aggressive tuning requires hardware upgrades and is not recommended for longevity.
Excellent for its era. In a Clio III, expect 4.5 L/100km (63 mpg UK) on a combined cycle. Real-world figures are typically 5.0-5.5 L/100km (51-56 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway cruising can yield under 4.0 L/100km (70+ mpg UK).
Yes. The K9K 728 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (a rare event), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable with proper maintenance.
Renault mandates RN0700 specification oil, typically SAE 5W-40. This is crucial for protecting the turbocharger and managing soot from the EGR system. Using the correct oil and changing it every 15,000 km or annually is vital for engine health.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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