The Renault K9K 734 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2007 and 2018. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium 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 efficiency and adequate low‑end pull for city driving.
Fitted to models such as the Clio III, Modus, and Twingo III, the K9K 734 was engineered for urban economy and manoeu…
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 734 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini and compact city cars (2007-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver adequate low‑rpm torque and frugal fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and later Euro 5) standards, it prioritizes urban efficiency and low running costs.
| 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 (pre‑2011); Euro 5 (2011–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
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 734 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Twingo III and revised cooling in the Modus-and from 2011 received DPF integration for Euro 5 compliance, creating minor ECU and sensor differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The K9K 734's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel. Renault internal service data indicated a notable rate of pump replacements under warranty for early builds, while UK DVSA records show EGR-related faults as a common MOT advisory item. Infrequent highway driving and contaminated fuel make adherence to fuel quality and filter change intervals 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 734 is generally robust with simple mechanics, but early models are prone to fuel pump failures. Later revisions (post-2013) addressed this, making well-maintained examples dependable. Using high-quality diesel and changing the fuel filter regularly are crucial for longevity.
The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump failure, EGR valve/carbon buildup, and turbo actuator faults. Glow plug and relay failures are also common as the engine ages. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins.
This 1.5L dCi 90 engine was used in the Renault Clio III (2007-2012), Renault Modus (2007-2012), and Renault Twingo III (2014-2018). It was not licensed to other manufacturers for this specific variant.
Yes, modest gains are possible. ECU remaps can safely increase output to around 100-110 PS, as the turbo and internals have some headroom. Significant power increases require hardware upgrades and are not recommended for daily drivers due to increased stress on the fuel pump.
Excellent for its era. In a Clio III dCi 90, expect ~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 conditions, making it very economical for city and highway use.
Yes. The K9K 734 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (though rare), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable with proper oil changes.
Renault specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting the RN0700 standard. Using the correct low-ash, low-SAPS oil is vital for protecting the engine and, on DPF models, preventing premature filter clogging. Change intervals should not exceed 20,000 km or 1 year.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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