The Renault K9K 834 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), common rail direct injection, and a variable‑geometry turbocharger (VGT) to enhance efficiency and responsiveness. In its standard 66 kW (90 PS) tune, it delivers 220 Nm of torque, with a higher-output 81 kW (110 PS) variant available. The SOHC design prioritises compactness and cost‑effectiveness for city car applications.
Fitted to models such as the Clio IV, Captur, and Twingo III, the K9K 834 was engineered for urban agility and low‑end torque. Drivers benefit from strong pulling power at low revs, ideal for stop‑start traffic and light highway cruising. Emissions compliance for most units was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 5 standards, with later models attaining Euro 6.
A documented concern is turbocharger actuator failure, particularly in vehicles subjected to high thermal cycling, as noted in Renault Service Bulletin MEC‑12‑008. This is often caused by wear in the actuator linkage or vacuum diaphragm. In 2015, Renault introduced a revised actuator design for certain applications to improve durability and response.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9101).
The Renault K9K 834 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini and crossover platforms (2012-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑end torque and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 (and later Euro 6) standards, it balances urban performance with reduced emissions.
| 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 | 66–81 kW (90–110 PS) | |
| Torque | 220–240 Nm @ 1,500–2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett or BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The variable-geometry turbo provides responsive performance across the rev range but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and injector wear. Renault RN0710 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its low-ash formulation protecting the DPF system. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce soot accumulation. The Bosch common-rail system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards. Post-2015 models feature revised turbo actuators; pre-2015 units should have the actuator inspected per Renault SIB MEC-12-008. DPF systems require periodic highway driving to maintain regeneration cycles.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0710 (5W-30) specification (Renault SIB MEC-12-008). Equivalent to ACEA C2/C3.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2012–2014 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9101). 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 81 kW output requires EN 590 diesel fuel (Renault TIS Doc. K9K-010).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs K9K-007, K9K-008, K9K-010, SIB MEC-12-008
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9101)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault K9K 834 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Captur and revised exhaust manifolds in the Clio IV-and from 2015 the introduction of Euro 6 compliance with updated ECU maps, creating minor parts differences. Nissan 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-012). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to the engine variant ('8' for K9K 834). All models feature a variable-geometry turbo with a rectangular actuator. Critical differentiation from K9K 782: K9K 834 uses a Bosch ECU and includes a DPF as standard, while K9K 782 often lacks a DPF and uses a Siemens VDO ECU. Service parts for the turbo actuator differ between pre- and post-2015 builds due to redesign (Renault SIB MEC-12-008).
The K9K 834's primary reliability risk is turbocharger actuator failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips and high thermal loads. Renault internal data indicated a high frequency of actuator faults in city-driven Clio and Captur models, while UK DVSA records show DPF-related issues as a common cause of emissions test failures. Lack of sustained high-temperature operation prevents DPF regeneration, making proactive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-834.
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