The Renault M9R 812 is a 2,188 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2006 and 2018. Developed jointly with Nissan, it features a common rail direct injection system, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). Output ranges from 110 kW (150 PS) to 130 kW (177 PS), with torque figures between 340-380 Nm.
Fitted to models like the Laguna III, Mégane III, and Scénic III, as well as Nissan equivalents (Qashqai, X-Trail), the M9R 812 was engineered for a blend of refinement, strong mid-range torque, and long-distance efficiency. Emissions compliance was managed via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 4 and later Euro 5 standards depending on the model year.
A well-documented concern involves the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), potentially leading to sudden power loss or non-start conditions. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Bulletin 6012A, is often attributed to internal wear or contamination from fuel quality. Production updates around 2010 introduced revised pump components and stricter fuel filtration.
Production years 2006–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2018 models meet Euro 5 compliance (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault M9R 812 is a 2,188 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for mid‑size sedans and SUVs (2006-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver smooth, accessible torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,188 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110–130 kW (150–177 PS) | |
| Torque | 340–380 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4 common‑rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2010); Euro 5 (2010 onwards) | |
| Compression ratio | 15.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0720 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The VGT provides accessible torque for effortless overtaking but demands strict adherence to 20,000 km service intervals to prevent EGR/DPF clogging. Renault RN0720 (5W-30) oil is critical for protecting turbo bearings and chain components. The Bosch CP4 fuel pump is sensitive to fuel contamination; using premium low-sulfur diesel is strongly advised. Pre-2010 engines should have the HPFP inspected per SIB 6012A. EGR coolers are prone to internal leaks, potentially causing coolant loss and white exhaust smoke.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0720 (5W-30) specification (Renault Owner's Manual). Compatible with ACEA C3.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2006-2009 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 applies to all 2010-2018 models.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies by ECU mapping and vehicle application (Renault TIS Doc. M9R-004).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M9R-001, M9R-002, M9R-003, SIB 6012A
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault M9R 812 was used across Renault's Laguna/Mégane platforms with transverse mounting and co-developed with Nissan for shared platforms. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts for the Scénic and revised cooling for the Koleos-and from 2010 received ECU and emissions hardware updates for Euro 5 compliance, creating minor software interchange limits. The partnership resulted in Nissan's MR20DDT petrol engine sharing architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front of the cylinder block, below the exhaust manifold (Renault TIS M9R-007). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to the engine variant (e.g., '8' for 150 PS, '9' for 175 PS). Pre-2010 models have a silver cam cover; post-2010 units feature a black cam cover with 'dCi' branding. Critical differentiation from later M9R variants: M9R 812 uses a specific Bosch EDC16C3 ECU. Service parts, particularly for the fuel system, require verification against the engine's production date due to mid-cycle updates (Renault SIB 6012A).
The M9R 812's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using lower-grade fuel. Renault internal service data indicated a notable rate of pump replacements under warranty for early builds, while UK DVSA records show EGR-related faults as a common MOT failure point. Extended highway driving without DPF regenerations can lead to DPF blockage, making fuel quality and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2008-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT M9R-812.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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