The Renault K9K 750 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. This compact powerplant was designed for urban efficiency, delivering 63 kW (86 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, making it ideal for light city cars and superminis.
Fitted to models such as the Clio III, Twingo II, and Modus, the K9K 750 was engineered for low running cost…
Production years 2007–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2018 models meet Euro 5 compliance (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K9K 750 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini and city car applications (2007-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and frugal fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it prioritizes urban efficiency and low running costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,461 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 80.5 mm | |
Power output | 63 kW (86 PS) | |
Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Siemens VDO common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2007-2010); Euro 5 (2011-2018) | |
Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
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 750 was used across Renault's B-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Modus and revised exhaust routing in the Twingo II-but no major facelift revisions affected core compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The K9K 750's primary reliability risk is dual-mass flywheel (DMF) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to high mileage or aggressive urban driving. Renault internal service data indicated a significant number of replacements before 100,000 km in early builds, while UK DVSA records show EGR-related faults as a common MOT failure point. Stop-start driving and missed services accelerate wear, making adherence to maintenance schedules 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 750 is generally robust mechanically, but its long-term reliability hinges on addressing the known DMF weakness and maintaining the EGR system. Early models (pre-2012) are more prone to DMF failure. With the revised flywheel installed and strict adherence to service schedules using correct oil, it can be a dependable engine for high mileage.
The most frequent issues are dual-mass flywheel failure (causing judder/noise), EGR system clogging (leading to poor running and EML), and turbo actuator faults (resulting in power loss). Glow plug failures are also common as the engine ages. These are well-documented in Renault service information.
The K9K 750 1.5 dCi 86 engine was primarily used in the Renault Clio III (2007-2012), Twingo II (2007-2014), and Modus (2007-2012). It was also found in the Nissan Micra K13 (2010-2017) as part of the Renault-Nissan alliance. All applications were for the European market.
Yes, the K9K 750 responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes can safely increase power to around 100-110 PS and torque to 220-240 Nm. The engine and turbo can handle this modest increase. More aggressive tuning requires supporting modifications and increases stress on the DMF and clutch, so caution is advised.
Excellent for its era. In a Renault Clio III, expect real-world figures of approximately 5.5 L/100km (city) and 4.0 L/100km (highway), translating to roughly 52-60 mpg UK combined. Its efficiency is a key strength, making it ideal for urban and mixed driving conditions.
Yes. The K9K 750 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (which is rare but possible), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. This underscores the importance of using correct oil and avoiding extended service intervals.
Renault mandates the use of RN0700 specification oil, typically a 5W-40 synthetic blend. Using the correct oil is vital for protecting the turbocharger, high-pressure fuel pump, and ensuring proper lubrication of the timing chain. Never use a lower specification oil.
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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