The Renault K9K 740 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 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 turbine (VNT) technology enabling strong low‑rpm response for urban drivability.
Fitted to models like the Clio III, Mégane III, and Kangoo, the K9K 740 was engineered for compact car efficiency and light commercial vehicle durability. Emissions compliance was primarily achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), targeting Euro 4 standards for most production years, with some late builds meeting Euro 5.
A documented concern is EGR valve and cooler clogging, leading to performance issues and fault codes, as noted in Renault Technical Note MEC 08 01 A. This is often caused by short‑trip driving cycles preventing adequate system temperatures. Renault addressed this in later K9K variants with revised EGR mapping and component materials.
Production years 2008–2012 meet Euro 4 standards; 2013–2015 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K9K 740 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for superminis and light vans (2008-2015). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and frugal operation. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and some market‑specific Euro 5) standards, it balances city efficiency with highway capability.
| 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 @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens SID804 common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2013); Euro 5 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 15.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable power delivery but is less efficient than VGT units at varying RPMs. Strict 20,000 km oil changes with RN0700/RN0710 specification are mandatory to protect the chain and turbo. The EGR system is highly sensitive to driving patterns; frequent short trips accelerate carbon buildup, necessitating periodic cleaning per Renault Technical Note MEC 08 01 A. Use of EN 590 ultra-low sulfur diesel is required to prevent injector and pump wear. While generally robust, ignoring EGR faults can lead to DPF overloading and costly regeneration failures.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (5W-30) specification (Renault Technical Note LUB 01 01 B). ACEA B4 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2013 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2013-2015 models meet Euro 5 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output is consistent across specified fuel quality (Renault Technical Manual 77 11 385 234).
Renault Technical Information System: Manuals 77 11 385 234, Notes MEC 08 01 A, LUB 01 01 B
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
UNECE Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Renault K9K 740 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting and Nissan for selected models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds for the Clio versus the Kangoo-and from 2012 minor ECU revisions for emissions, creating minor software interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Nissan's 1.5 dCi units to share core architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Tech Manual 77 11 385 234). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to the engine code (e.g., 'K' for K9K family). Visually, the K9K 740 is identifiable by its 3-cylinder layout and the specific Siemens SID804 ECU. Critical differentiation from later K9K 800: The K9K 740 uses a fixed-geometry turbo, while the 800 uses a VNT. Service parts like injectors and EGR valves are often not interchangeable between early and late K9K 740 builds without ECU reprogramming (Renault Technical Note MEC 08 01 A).
The K9K 740's primary reliability risk is EGR system clogging, with elevated incidence in urban, short-trip usage. Renault internal service data indicates a high frequency of EGR-related repairs before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show EGR faults as a leading cause of diesel particulate filter (DPF) warning lights. Infrequent highway driving and low-quality fuel make preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2008-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-740.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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