The Renault K9K 782 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), common rail direct injection, and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger. In its primary 65 kW (88 PS) tune, it delivers 200 Nm of torque, with the variable geometry turbo (VGT) variant offering 81 kW (110 PS). The SOHC design prioritises cost‑effectiveness and compact packaging for city and supermini applications.
Fitted to models s…
Production years 2008–2011 meet Euro 4 standards; 2012–2015 models with VGT meet Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault K9K 782 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini and city cars (2008-2015). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry or variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑end torque and frugal fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and later Euro 5) standards, it balances urban agility with running cost economy.
| 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 | 65–81 kW (88–110 PS) | |
Torque | 200–240 Nm @ 1,500–2,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Siemens VDO common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2012); Euro 5 (VGT models, 2012+) | |
Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry (65 kW) or Variable‑geometry (81 kW) | |
Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 110 kg |
The Renault K9K 782 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Modus and revised intake manifolds in the Clio III-and from 2012 the introduction of the VGT variant for higher output, creating minor parts differences. Nissan and Dacia also utilised this engine family under licensing. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The K9K 782's primary reliability risk is EGR system clogging, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short urban journeys. Renault internal data indicated a high frequency of EGR-related faults in city-driven Clio and Twingo models, while UK DVSA records show EGR issues as a common cause of emissions test failures. Lack of sustained high-temperature operation prevents self-cleaning, making proactive maintenance 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 782 is generally robust for its class, with the chain-driven timing system being very durable. Its main weakness is the EGR system, which clogs easily in city-driven cars. With proactive maintenance—especially cleaning the EGR every 40,000–60,000 km—and using the correct 5W-30 oil, these engines can easily surpass 200,000 km.
The most frequent issues are EGR valve/cooler clogging causing running problems, turbo actuator failure on VGT models leading to power loss, and glow plug/module failures affecting cold starts. Oil leaks from the rocker cover gasket are also common as the engine ages. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins.
This 1.5L dCi engine was used in the Renault Clio III (2008–2012), Modus (2008–2012), and Twingo II (2011–2014). It was also licensed to Dacia for the Sandero (2008–2012) and to Nissan for the Micra K13 (2010–2015). Power outputs were 65 kW (88 PS) or 81 kW (110 PS) with the VGT turbo.
Yes, it has good tuning potential. A simple ECU remap can safely increase power from 88 PS to around 110–115 PS, or from 110 PS to 130–135 PS. The stock internals are strong enough for these gains. However, pushing beyond this requires upgrades like a hybrid turbo and intercooler to avoid stressing components.
Excellent for its era. In a Renault Clio III 1.5 dCi, expect real-world figures of ~5.0 L/100km (56 mpg UK) on a mixed run and ~4.0 L/100km (70 mpg UK) on a steady motorway cruise. City driving will be higher, around 6.0–6.5 L/100km (43–47 mpg UK), depending on traffic and EGR condition.
Yes. The K9K 782 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (which is very rare) or jump timing, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. Fortunately, the chain is extremely durable and rarely fails if oil is changed regularly.
Renault mandates oil meeting the RN0700 specification, typically a 5W-30 synthetic. Using the correct low-ash oil is vital for protecting the turbocharger and minimising soot buildup in the EGR system. Always change the oil at or before the 20,000 km service interval.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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