The Renault M5M 401 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2007 and 2011. It features common rail direct injection, a fixed-geometry turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form, it delivered 66 kW (90 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, designed for compact city and supermini applications.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Clio III and Twingo II, the M5M 401 was engineered for urban efficiency and low running costs. Emissions compliance was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, often linked to fuel contamination or inadequate lubrication. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC‑0451, can lead to sudden loss of power and engine stalling. Later production runs incorporated revised pump seals and filtration protocols.
Production years 2007–2011 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault M5M 401 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini applications (2007-2011). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and urban fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes compact packaging and cost-effective ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,461 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 85.5 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens VDO common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable low-RPM torque suitable for city driving but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and timing chain. Renault RN0710 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its specific additive package for the Siemens VDO pump. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards is mandatory to prevent pump seizure. The DPF system requires regular highway driving for passive regeneration; frequent short trips can lead to filter clogging and warning lights. Pre-2009 models are most susceptible to pump failure per Renault Technical Note MEC-0451.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0710 (5W-30) specification (Renault Owner's Manual). Equivalent to ACEA B4 standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2007-2011 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 5 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault TIS Doc. MEC-1026).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs MEC-1024, MEC-1025, MEC-1026, Technical Note MEC-0451
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault M5M 401 was used exclusively across Renault's B-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts for the Twingo II-but no major facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. 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 alternator (Renault TIS MEC-1028). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('6' for 1.5L dCi). All M5M 401 engines have a black plastic cam cover with "dCi 90" branding. Critical differentiation from the K9K engine: M5M is a 3-cylinder, while K9K is a 4-cylinder. Service parts for the fuel system are specific to the Siemens VDO pump and not interchangeable with Delphi systems used in other Renault diesels.
The M5M 401's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to poor fuel quality or irregular maintenance. Renault internal reports from 2010 indicated a significant failure rate before 100,000 km in non-compliant vehicles, while UK DVSA data shows DPF-related issues are common in urban-driven examples. Adherence to fuel and oil specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2008-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT M5M-401.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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RENAULT Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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