The Renault M9R 740 is a 2,148 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced from 2006 through 2018. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form, it delivered outputs ranging from 110 kW (150 PS) to 127 kW (173 PS), engineered for premium compact and mid — size applications.
Fitted to models like the Renault Laguna III, Mégane III, and Scénic III, the M9R 740 balanced strong low — end t…
Production years 2006–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2018 models meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Renault M9R 740 is a 2,148 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for premium compact and mid‑size vehicles (2006-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong, flexible torque and refined performance. Designed to meet evolving Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it targets drivers seeking efficiency with premium drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,148 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 88.3 mm | |
Power output | 110–127 kW (150–173 PS) | |
Torque | 340–360 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP4 common‑rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2006–2009); Euro 5 (2010–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Variable‑geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
Timing system | Chain | |
Oil type | Renault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 189 kg |
The Renault M9R 740 was used across Renault's C/D-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts for the Laguna III-but no major facelift revisions affected core compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M9R 740'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 2011 indicated a significant failure rate before 120,000 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 (2008-2015) 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 M9R 740 can be reliable with meticulous maintenance, but its primary weakness is the high-pressure fuel pump, especially in early models. Vehicles with a full service history using Renault RN0710 oil and ULSD fuel can exceed 200,000 km without major issues. DPF and EGR management are also crucial for longevity.
The most frequent and critical issue is high-pressure fuel pump failure. Other common problems include DPF clogging (especially in city cars), EGR valve carbon buildup, and turbo actuator/solenoid faults. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins and owner reports.
The M9R 740 2.0 dCi engine was used in the Renault Laguna III, Mégane III, Scénic III, and first-generation Koleos. It was also licensed to Nissan for use in the Qashqai (J10) and X-Trail (T31) during the same period.
Yes, it responds well to tuning. A Stage 1 ECU remap can safely increase output to around 147-155 kW (200-210 PS) and torque to 400-420 Nm. The stock internals and turbo can handle this. More aggressive tuning requires upgraded injectors and potentially a hybrid turbo, but increases stress on the fuel pump.
Good for its size and power. In a Renault Laguna III, expect real-world figures of approximately 5.5 L/100km (51 mpg UK) on a combined cycle. Highway driving can yield under 5.0 L/100km (56+ mpg UK), while city driving might be around 6.5 L/100km (43 mpg UK). Regular DPF regeneration is key to maintaining this efficiency.
Yes. The M9R 740 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is generally robust if oil changes are performed on schedule.
Renault mandates the use of RN0710 specification oil, typically a 5W-30 synthetic. This specific formulation is critical for protecting the high-pressure fuel pump. Using the wrong oil significantly increases the risk of premature pump failure. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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RENAULT Official Site
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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
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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.
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