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 such as the Clio III, Modus, and Twingo II, the K9K 782 was engineered for urban efficiency and low‑end responsiveness. Drivers benefit from strong pulling power at low revs, ideal for stop‑start traffic. Emissions compliance for most units was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 4 standards, with later VGT models attaining Euro 5.
A documented concern is EGR valve and cooler clogging, particularly in vehicles subjected to predominantly short urban journeys, as noted in Renault Service Bulletin MEC‑08‑012. This is caused by carbon and soot accumulation restricting gas flow. In 2012, Renault introduced a revised EGR cooler design for certain applications to improve flow and service life.
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 compact three-cylinder layout provides excellent low-RPM torque for city driving but is susceptible to EGR system clogging if used primarily for short trips. Renault RN0700 (5W-30) oil is mandatory to protect the turbo and maintain injector performance. Vehicles without a diesel particulate filter (DPF) require more frequent EGR cleaning. The fixed-geometry turbo in 65 kW models is robust, while the VGT unit in 81 kW variants needs periodic actuator checks. Adhering to the 20,000 km service interval is critical for longevity, as per Renault Service Bulletin MEC-08-012.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-30) specification (Renault SIB MEC-08-012). Equivalent to ACEA B4.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2012 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). VGT models from 2012 meet Euro 5.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 81 kW output requires EN 590 diesel fuel (Renault TIS Doc. K9K-005).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K9K-001, K9K-002, K9K-005, SIB MEC-08-012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS K9K-006). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to the engine variant ('7' for K9K 782). Pre-2012 models with 65 kW output have a simpler, round turbo actuator; 2012+ 81 kW VGT models feature a more complex, rectangular actuator. Critical differentiation from K9K 892: K9K 782 uses a Siemens VDO ECU, while K9K 892 uses a Delphi unit. Service parts for the EGR system differ between pre- and post-2012 builds due to cooler redesign (Renault SIB MEC-08-012).
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-782.
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