The Renault K9K 768 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2007 and 2018. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 12 valves. Common-rail direct injection and a fixed-geometry turbocharger deliver outputs ranging from 63 kW (85 PS) to 72 kW (98 PS), providing strong low-rpm torque for everyday drivability in compact vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Clio III, Modus, and Twingo II, the K9K 768 was engineered for urban efficiency and low running costs. Its compact three-cylinder layout contributes to light weight and fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and, in later models, a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing it to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards depending on the production year.
One documented concern is EGR valve and cooler clogging, particularly in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. This issue, highlighted in Renault Technical Note 4112A, can lead to reduced performance and increased emissions. From 2011, Renault introduced revised EGR components and software calibrations for improved reliability in certain markets.
Production years 2007–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2018 models meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K9K 768 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini and compact city cars (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 ownership costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 80.5 mm | |
| Power output | 63–72 kW (85–98 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP1 common‑rail (up to 1,350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2007–2010); Euro 5 (2011–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The three-cylinder layout provides a characterful idle and strong low-RPM pull, ideal for city driving, but demands adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil changes to prevent EGR and DPF issues. Renault RN0700/0710 (5W-30) oil is critical for maintaining injector and turbo health. Vehicles used primarily for short trips should have the EGR valve and cooler inspected every 60,000 km to prevent clogging, as per Renault Technical Note 4112A. The Bosch CP1 pump requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) to ensure longevity. DPF-equipped models (post-2011) require regular highway driving for passive regeneration.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or RN0710 specification (Renault Owner's Manual). Equivalent to ACEA B4/C4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2007–2010 models; Euro 5 applies to 2011–2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output varies by model application and ECU calibration (Renault TIS Doc. K9K-003).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K9K-001, K9K-002, K9K-003
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB): 05 01 10
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Renault K9K 768 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds for the Clio versus the Twingo-and from 2011 the introduction of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) for Euro 5 compliance, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS K9K-006). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code ('K' for K9K family). Pre-2011 (Euro 4) models lack a DPF and have a simpler exhaust system; post-2011 (Euro 5) models feature a DPF located under the vehicle near the catalytic converter. Critical differentiation from other K9K variants: The K9K 768 has a specific ECU part number (e.g., 8200777135) and a unique engine management calibration. Service parts for the EGR system differ between pre- and post-2011 models (Renault Technical Note 4112A).
The K9K 768's primary reliability risk is EGR system clogging, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short urban journeys. Renault internal service data indicates a high frequency of EGR-related faults in cars with low annual mileage, while UK DVSA records show DPF warning lights as a common MOT advisory item for post-2011 models. Short trip cycles prevent the system from reaching optimal operating temperature, making periodic highway driving and correct oil specification critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2007-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-768.
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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