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 w…
Production years 2018–2021 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9879).
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.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,148 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 88.4 mm | |
Power output | 120 kW (163 PS) @ 3,750 rpm | |
Torque | 380 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP4 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Renault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 185 kg |
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.
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.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2018-2021) and owner-reported failure data (2021-2023). 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 817 is generally a robust engine when maintained correctly. Its main weakness is the high-pressure fuel pump, which requires high-quality fuel to function reliably. With strict adherence to Renault's 20,000 km service schedule, use of RN0710 oil, and only EN 590 compliant diesel, the engine can easily exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump failure (causing hard starting), AdBlue injector crystallization (causing SCR faults), DPF regeneration failure (leading to limp mode), and turbo actuator failure (causing boost control issues). These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins and owner forums.
The M9R 817 2.0L dCi 160 engine was used exclusively in the Renault Talisman (2018-2021) and Espace V (2018-2021). It was a lower-output variant compared to the M9R 802, offering strong torque with a focus on emissions compliance under Euro 6d-TEMP.
Yes, the M9R 817 responds well to tuning. ECU remaps can safely yield an extra 20-30 kW and 50-80 Nm of torque. The stock internals, including the turbo and injectors, are quite capable. Popular upgrades include a larger intercooler and a decat or sports catalyst. Note that tuning may affect AdBlue/SCR system operation and emissions compliance.
Real-world fuel economy is very good for its power output. Expect around 7.6 L/100km (37 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a Talisman or Espace. Highway cruising can return figures close to 6.1 L/100km (46 mpg UK) when driven gently. The addition of the SCR system adds slight complexity but doesn't significantly impact consumption.
Yes. The M9R 817 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable with proper maintenance using the correct oil.
Renault mandates the use of RN0710 specification oil, typically SAE 5W-40 viscosity. Using this specific oil is crucial for the longevity of the timing chain, turbocharger, and emissions systems. Always use a high-quality, fully synthetic oil that meets this standard and change it every 20,000 km or annually.
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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