The Renault K9K 766 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 delivered 66 kW (90 PS), with torque figures of 200 Nm, providing strong low‑rpm pull for its size.
Fitted to models such as the Clio III, Modus, and Twingo RS, the K9K 766 was engineered for urban efficiency and responsive performance in compact vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and, in later models, a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing compliance with Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards depending on year.
One documented concern is premature failure of the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve and cooler, leading to performance issues and fault codes. This is highlighted in Renault Service Bulletin 3112A. Carbon buildup restricts valve operation. From 2012, revised EGR components were introduced for improved durability.
Production years 2008–2011 meet Euro 4 standards; 2012–2015 models meet Euro 5 compliance (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K9K 766 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini and compact city cars (2008-2015). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑end torque and frugal fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it balances urban agility with long-distance economy.
| 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 @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP1 common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2008–2011); Euro 5 (2012–2015) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 | |
| 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 fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable torque delivery suited for city driving but demands strict 15,000 km oil changes to prevent EGR and turbo issues. Renault RN0700 (5W-30) oil is critical for maintaining EGR valve function and preventing injector coking. Extended idling should be avoided to minimize soot accumulation. The Bosch CP1 pump requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) to prevent premature wear. Post-2012 models feature an updated EGR cooler; pre-2012 units are prone to clogging per Renault SIB 3112A. DPF-equipped variants require regular highway driving for passive regeneration.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-30) specification (Renault SIB 3112A). Equivalent to ACEA B4.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2008–2011 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 applies to 2012–2015 models.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across model years (Renault TIS Doc. K9K-003).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K9K-001, K9K-002, K9K-003, SIB 3112A
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault K9K 766 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Twingo RS and specific ECU mapping for the Clio III-and from 2012 the facelifted Modus adopted revised emissions hardware, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS K9K-005). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('K' for 1.5L dCi). Pre-2012 models lack a DPF and have a simpler EGR cooler; post-2012 units integrate a DPF and have a larger, finned EGR cooler. Critical differentiation from K9K 800: K9K 766 has a 90 PS rating and a specific ECU part number (e.g., 8200899010). Service parts for the EGR system are not interchangeable between pre- and post-2012 builds due to design changes (Renault SIB 3112A).
The K9K 766's primary reliability risk is EGR system failure, with elevated incidence in high-idle or short-trip urban use. Renault internal data indicated a significant portion of pre-2012 engines required EGR service before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show EGR faults as a common cause of emissions-related MOT failures. Stop-start driving and infrequent highway use accelerate carbon buildup, making preventative cleaning critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2010-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-766.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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RENAULT Official Site
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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
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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
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