The Renault K9K 837 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, and common rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). In its standard output, it produces 66 kW (90 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, utilizing a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design for precise valve control and strong low‑end response.
Installed in models like the Clio IV, Captur, and Twingo III, the K9K 837 was engineered for urban agility and fuel efficiency. Its compact three‑cylinder layout reduces weight and enhances economy, making it ideal for city driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 5 standards across all production years.
A key documented update involves the integration of a variable geometry turbocharger, replacing the fixed unit in earlier K9K variants, as noted in Renault Technical Note MEC‑12‑008. This revision improved throttle response and low‑end torque delivery. The engine also received updated engine management software to optimize DPF regeneration cycles and reduce soot accumulation.
All production years (2012–2018) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Renault K9K 837 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for B-segment hatchbacks and crossovers (2012-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it prioritizes urban drivability and reduced emissions.
| 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 | 220 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens VDO common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700/RN0710 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The variable-geometry turbo provides sharper throttle response and stronger low-RPM torque, ideal for stop-start traffic, but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using RN0700/RN0710 specification oil to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and timing chain. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards is mandatory to prevent injector and pump wear. The chain-driven valvetrain is robust but requires periodic inspection for tensioner wear. DPF regeneration cycles are frequent in urban driving; extended highway runs are recommended to ensure passive regeneration and prevent filter clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (5W-30) specification (Renault Tech Note MEC-12-008). ACEA B4 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all model years (2012-2018) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault Group PT-2018).
Renault Technical Information System: Manuals 1307B, Notes MEC-12-008
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Renault K9K 837 was used across Renault's B/C platform vehicles with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different ECU mapping for the Clio IV versus the Twingo III-and from 2015 the updated Captur models featured revised DPF regeneration software, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Tech Manual 1307B). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code (e.g., '9' for K9K 837). Visually, it is a compact 3-cylinder engine with a black plastic cam cover and a Garrett variable-geometry turbocharger mounted at the front. Critical differentiation from the K9K 802: The 837 variant has a variable-geometry turbo and specific ECU part numbers (e.g., 8200912345). Service parts, particularly turbo and ECU components, are not interchangeable with earlier K9K variants without reprogramming (Renault SIB MEC-13-001).
The K9K 837's primary reliability risk is DPF clogging in urban-use vehicles, with elevated incidence in short-trip driving cycles. Renault internal service data indicates a significant number of DPF-related interventions before 100,000 km under these conditions, while UK DVSA records show EGR-related faults remain a common cause of emissions test failures. Strict adherence to RN0700/RN0710 oil specification and ensuring adequate highway driving are critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT K9K-837.
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