Engine Code

RENAULT M9R-817 engine (2018–2021) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault M9R 817 is a 2,148 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2018 and 2021. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) 16-valve design with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and high-pressure common rail direct injection. This configuration delivers a robust 120 kW (163 PS) and 380 Nm of torque, providing strong, linear power ideal for highway cruising and everyday efficiency.

Fitted exclusively to the Talisman and Espace V, the M9R 817 was engineered for premium refinement and compliance with the latest emissions regulations. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF), selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting stringent Euro 6d-TEMP standards.

One documented service concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump's internal pressure regulator, potentially causing hard starting or limp mode. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note DIE‑18‑031, is often linked to fuel contamination or extended service intervals. Renault addressed this with revised pump components in later production runs.

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2018–2021 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9879).

M9R-817 Technical Specifications

The Renault M9R 817 is a 2,148 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for large sedans and MPVs (2018-2021). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver strong, linear power and efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances performance with advanced emissions control.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,148 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke88.0 mm × 88.4 mm
Power output120 kW (163 PS) @ 3,750 rpm
Torque380 Nm @ 2,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CP4 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d-TEMP
Compression ratio15.8:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett)
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeRenault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight185 kg
Practical Implications

The VGT turbo provides ample low-RPM torque ideal for relaxed driving but demands strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals using RN0710 (5W-40) oil to protect the chain timing system and turbo bearings. Fuel quality meeting EN 590 standards is critical to prevent premature wear of the Bosch CP4 high-pressure pump. The SCR system requires regular use of genuine AdBlue fluid to prevent injector crystallization. DPF regeneration requires regular highway driving; frequent short trips can lead to clogging and limp mode.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0710 (5W-40) specification (Renault Technical Note DIE‑18‑031).

Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all model years 2018-2021 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9879).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across specified fuel grades (Renault TIS Doc. 77 11 392 901).

Primary Sources

Renault Technical Information System: Docs 77 11 392 901, DIE‑18‑031

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9879)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

M9R-817 Compatible Models

The Renault M9R 817 was used across Renault's Talisman/Espace V platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Espace for load-bearing-and minor ECU updates for emissions compliance, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2018–2021
Models:
Talisman
Variants:
2.0 dCi 160
View Source
Renault Group PT-2021
Make:
Renault
Years:
2018–2021
Models:
Espace V
Variants:
2.0 dCi 160 Initiale
View Source
Renault Technical Manual 77 11 392 901
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on a flat machined surface at the front of the engine block, near the gearbox bellhousing (Renault TIS 77 11 392 901). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code 'R'. Visually, the engine features a black plastic intake manifold and a silver alloy valve cover. Critical differentiation from the M9R 802: The M9R 817 has identical displacement but is calibrated for lower power (163 PS vs 177 PS) and meets Euro 6d-TEMP standards. ECU part numbers are specific to this variant and are not interchangeable with M9R 802 without reprogramming (Renault Technical Note ECU-SCR-2018).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Renault TIS Doc. 77 11 392 901

Location:

Stamped on front engine block near gearbox bellhousing (Renault TIS 77 11 392 901).

Visual Cues:

Black plastic intake manifold, silver alloy valve cover, visible Garrett turbocharger, AdBlue tank and injector visible in engine bay.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Renault Technical Note ECU-SCR-2018

E C U Software:

ECUs are specific to the M9R 817 calibration and SCR system, and are not directly compatible with M9R 802 engines without significant reprogramming and hardware changes.

Ad Blue System:

The SCR system requires specific sensors and injectors. Parts are not interchangeable with pre-Euro 6 M9R variants.
Fuel Pump

Issue:

The high-pressure fuel pump's internal pressure regulator is susceptible to failure if contaminated fuel is used or service intervals are extended.

Evidence:

Renault Technical Note DIE‑18‑031

Recommendation:

Always use high-quality, EN 590 compliant diesel fuel. If fault codes P0087/P0088 are present, replace the fuel pump with the latest revised part per Renault Technical Note DIE‑18‑031.

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT M9R-817

The M9R 817's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to poor fuel quality or extended service intervals. Renault internal service data indicates a notable correlation between pump faults and fuel contamination, while owner reports frequently cite hard starting as the first symptom. Neglecting fuel quality significantly increases the risk of costly pump replacement.

High-pressure fuel pump failure
Symptoms: Engine cranks but won't start, loss of power under load, fuel pressure DTCs (P0087/P0088), whining noise from fuel tank area.
Cause: Failure of the internal pressure regulator within the mechanical high-pressure fuel pump, potentially exacerbated by low fuel levels, contaminated fuel, or use of non-compliant fuel additives.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump assembly with a new OEM unit; inspect fuel filter and lines for contamination during replacement. Use only EN 590 compliant diesel fuel.
AdBlue injector nozzle crystallization
Symptoms: Reduced engine power, SCR system warning light, AdBlue system fault codes (e.g., P20E8), increased NOx emissions.
Cause: Crystallization of urea deposits within the AdBlue injector nozzle, restricting fluid flow and preventing proper dosing into the exhaust stream.
Fix: Replace the faulty AdBlue injector with the latest OEM-specified part per Renault technical procedure; ensure only genuine AdBlue fluid is used thereafter.
DPF regeneration failure
Symptoms: Engine enters limp mode, warning light for DPF, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, burning smell.
Cause: Insufficient exhaust temperatures during short journeys preventing passive regeneration, leading to excessive soot accumulation in the DPF.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via diagnostic tool; if unsuccessful, remove and professionally clean or replace the DPF. Advise customer on driving habits to promote passive regeneration.
Turbocharger actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost, overboost/underboost fault codes, whistling or hissing noises from turbo area, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Wear or sticking of the variable geometry turbocharger's electronic actuator mechanism, often due to heat exposure or carbon buildup.
Fix: Replace the faulty turbo actuator with the latest OEM-specified part; recalibrate the actuator using Renault diagnostic equipment after installation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2018-2021) and owner-reported failure data (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about RENAULT M9R-817

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT M9R-817.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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