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…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The K9K 766 is generally robust but is known for EGR system issues, especially in pre-2012 models. With proactive maintenance, particularly cleaning the EGR valve and cooler, and using the correct 5W-30 oil, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 km. The timing chain is durable and typically does not require replacement.
The most frequent issues are EGR valve/cooler clogging, turbo actuator failure, and glow plug/module faults. Injector seal leaks and DPF problems (on post-2012 models) are also common. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins, particularly SIB 3112A for the EGR system.
The K9K 766 1.5 dCi 90 PS engine was primarily used in the Renault Clio III (2008-2012), Renault Modus (2008-2012), and the performance-oriented Renault Twingo RS (2011-2015). It was not used in Dacia or Nissan models under this specific code.
Yes, the K9K 766 responds well to ECU remapping. A Stage 1 remap can safely increase power to around 110-115 PS and torque to 240-250 Nm. The stock turbo and internals are generally capable of handling this increase. Further power gains require hardware upgrades like a hybrid turbo.
Excellent for its era. In a Clio III 1.5 dCi, expect real-world figures of ~4.5 L/100km (63 mpg UK) on a mixed run and ~5.5 L/100km (51 mpg UK) in city driving. The lightweight Twingo RS might see slightly higher consumption due to its sportier setup, but still offers impressive efficiency.
Yes. The K9K 766 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (though rare), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. Fortunately, the chain is very reliable and designed to last the engine's lifetime with proper oil maintenance.
Renault mandates the use of 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting the RN0700 specification. This is crucial for protecting the turbocharger, preventing EGR clogging, and ensuring the longevity of the injection system. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months.
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
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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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