Engine Code

Renault K9K-764 Engine (2008–2015) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault K9K 764 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium head, common rail direct injection, and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger. In standard form, it delivers 66 kW (90 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, offering a balance of urban efficiency and adequate low‑end pull for its vehicle class.

Fitted primarily to the Clio III, Twingo II, and Modus, the K9K 764 was engineered for compact city driving with

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2015 models meet Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

Renault K9K-764 Technical Specifications

The Renault K9K 764 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini and city car applications (2008-2015). 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 prioritises urban efficiency and low running costs.

ParameterValueSource
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
66 kW (90 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 onwards)
Compression ratio
16.3:1
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

Renault K9K-764 Compatible Models

The Renault K9K 764 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts for the Twingo II and revised air intake routing for the Clio III-and from 2011 the introduction of a diesel particulate filter for Euro 5 compliance, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2012
Models:
Clio III
Variants:
dCi 90
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2014
Models:
Twingo II
Variants:
dCi 86, dCi 90
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2012
Models:
Modus
Variants:
dCi 90
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. K9K-004
Make:
Nissan
Years:
2010–2015
Models:
Micra K13
Variants:
dCi 90
View Source
Nissan EPC #NJ-789

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT K9K-764 Compatible Models

The K9K 764's primary reliability risk is EGR system failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short urban journeys. Renault internal service data indicates a high frequency of EGR-related repairs, while UK DVSA MOT statistics show EGR faults as a common cause of emissions test failure for this engine. Short-trip driving accelerates carbon buildup, making preventative cleaning or timely replacement critical.

EGR valve and cooler failure
Symptoms: Loss of power, rough idle, increased fuel consumption, engine management light, failed emissions test.
Cause: Carbon deposits from exhaust gas accumulate in the valve and cooler, causing sticking, blockages, and reduced heat exchange efficiency.
Fix: Clean or replace the EGR valve and cooler assembly with the latest OEM-specified parts per service bulletin 14B007; reset adaptations.
Turbocharger actuator failure
Symptoms: Whistling or hissing noise, loss of boost pressure, reduced power, especially at higher RPMs.
Cause: Wear or corrosion in the vacuum-operated actuator rod or diaphragm, preventing the wastegate from functioning correctly.
Fix: Replace the turbocharger actuator or the complete turbocharger unit with an OEM part; inspect vacuum lines for leaks.
Glow plug and module faults
Symptoms: Difficulty starting, especially in cold weather, prolonged cranking, engine management light with glow plug codes.
Cause: Glow plugs can fail due to age or electrical overload; the control module can also fail, preventing proper pre-heating.
Fix: Test and replace faulty glow plugs and/or the control module with OEM components; ensure battery is in good condition.
Oil leaks from rocker cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil smell, visible oil residue on the top/rear of the engine, potential drips onto the turbocharger or exhaust manifold.
Cause: The rocker cover gasket hardens and shrinks with age and heat cycles, losing its ability to seal effectively against the cylinder head.
Fix: Replace the rocker cover gasket with a new OEM part; ensure the cover is torqued to specification to prevent recurrence.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2010-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT K9K-764 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The K9K 764 is generally robust mechanically, with its timing chain designed for the engine's lifespan. Its main weakness is the EGR system, prone to clogging on short trips. With proactive EGR maintenance and regular oil changes using RN0700 spec oil, it can be a dependable long-term engine.

The most frequent issues are EGR valve/cooler failure, turbo actuator faults, and glow plug/module problems. Oil leaks from the rocker cover gasket are also common as the engine ages. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins like 14B007.

The K9K 764 (90 PS dCi) was primarily used in the Renault Clio III (2008-2012), Twingo II (2008-2014), and Modus (2008-2012). It was also fitted to the Nissan Micra K13 (2010-2015) as part of the Renault-Nissan alliance.

Yes, the K9K 764 responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes can safely increase power to around 110-115 PS and torque to 240-250 Nm. The standard turbo and internals are generally robust enough for this level of increase without requiring hardware modifications.

Excellent for its era. In a Clio III dCi 90, expect combined figures of ~4.5 L/100km (63 mpg UK). Real-world economy is typically 50-60 mpg UK, depending on driving style. Its strength is low-speed, urban fuel efficiency.

Yes. The K9K 764 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (though rare), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable.

Renault mandates the use of RN0700 specification oil, typically a 5W-30 synthetic. Using the correct oil is vital for protecting the turbocharger, maintaining chain lubrication, and ensuring the DPF (on later models) functions correctly.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources

RENAULT Official Site

Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.

EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

Methodology

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

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