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…

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).
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.
| 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 | 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 |
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.
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.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2010-2015) 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 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.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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