Engine Code

RENAULT M9R-820 engine (2020–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault M9R 820 is a 2,299 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2020 and 2023. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) 16‑valve layout, common rail direct injection, and a twin‑scroll turbocharger with an electrically assisted wastegate. This configuration delivers 140 kW (190 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, with the electrically controlled turbo minimizing lag for immediate throttle response.

Fitted exclusively to the fifth-generation Espace and Talisman, the M9R 820 was engineered for premium refinement, strong towing capability, and efficient long-distance cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system with AdBlue injection and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 6d standards for its entire production run.

One documented concern is premature failure of the exhaust gas temperature (EGT) sensors, potentially triggering limp mode or regeneration faults, referenced in Renault Technical Note MEC 20E. This issue is often linked to thermal cycling stress on the sensor elements. Renault addressed this with a revised sensor design featuring improved thermal shielding for service replacements.

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2020–2023 meet Euro 6d standards for all markets (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007).

M9R-820 Technical Specifications

The Renault M9R 820 is a 2,299 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for executive MPVs and sedans (2020-2023). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with an electrically assisted twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver immediate, linear power and high torque for effortless performance. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances premium performance with stringent emissions control.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,299 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke88.0 mm × 94.6 mm
Power output140 kW (190 PS) @ 3,750 rpm
Torque400 Nm @ 2,000 rpm
Fuel systemCommon rail direct injection (Bosch)
Emissions standardEuro 6d
Compression ratio15.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerTwin-scroll with electrically assisted wastegate
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeRenault RN0720 (SAE 5W-30)
Dry weightNot specified in public documentation
Practical Implications

The electrically assisted turbo provides immediate, linear power ideal for highway overtaking but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil change intervals to prevent turbo and chain degradation. Renault RN0720 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its specific additive package protecting the chain and turbo components. The engine is an interference design; any timing chain failure can cause catastrophic valve damage. The SCR system requires regular AdBlue top-ups; ignoring warnings can trigger a no-start condition. EGT sensor failures are common and should be addressed with the latest revised part per Renault Technical Note.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0720 (5W-30) specification (Renault Technical Note MEC 20E). ACEA C3 is the minimum acceptable standard.

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all production years (2020-2023) (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007).

Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output figures are consistent across documented variants (Renault Technical Note MEC 20E).

Primary Sources

Renault Service Manual (Ref. 77 11 308 994)

Renault Technical Note MEC 20E

EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

EEC Directive 80/1269 (Engine Power Measurement)

M9R-820 Compatible Models

The Renault M9R 820 was used across Renault's Espace V and Talisman platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU calibrations for the Espace-but no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2020–2023
Models:
Espace V
Variants:
Zen, Intens, Initiale Paris
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. 77 11 308 994
Make:
Renault
Years:
2020–2023
Models:
Talisman
Variants:
Zen, Intens, Initiale Paris
View Source
Renault EPC Ref. 77 11 308 994
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Service Manual 77 11 308 994). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code 'M9R'. Visually, the engine is identified by its black plastic intake manifold and the 'dCi' and '2.3' badges on the cam cover. Critical differentiation from the M9R 804: The M9R 820 meets Euro 6d standards and may feature updated ECU software. Service parts for the EGT sensors are specific to the M9R 820.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Renault Service Manual 77 11 308 994

Location:

Stamped on a flat boss on the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault Service Manual 77 11 308 994).

Visual Cues:

  • Black plastic intake manifold.
  • 'dCi' and '2.3' badges on the cam cover.
  • Presence of an electrically assisted wastegate actuator on the turbocharger (visible on the exhaust manifold side).
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Renault Technical Note MEC 20E

E G T Sensors:

Exhaust Gas Temperature sensors are specific to the M9R 820 and not interchangeable with earlier M9R variants due to different mounting and electrical characteristics.

Ad Blue System:

The SCR system components are calibrated for Euro 6d compliance and differ from Euro 6d-TEMP variants in software and sensor thresholds.

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT M9R-820

The M9R 820's primary reliability risk is exhaust gas temperature (EGT) sensor failure, with elevated incidence across all usage conditions. Renault internal data indicates EGT sensor faults are a leading cause for diagnostic intervention, while owner reports frequently cite AdBlue system malfunctions. Thermal cycling and software calibration make sensor replacement with the revised part critical.

Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) sensor failure
Symptoms: Check Engine Light, reduced engine power (limp mode), failed DPF regeneration, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Thermal stress and cycling causing internal element failure or signal drift in the EGT sensors, leading to incorrect temperature readings for the ECU.
Fix: Replace the faulty EGT sensor(s) with the latest revised OEM part per Renault Technical Note; clear fault codes and verify system operation.
AdBlue system quality sensor faults
Symptoms: Dashboard warning for AdBlue quality, reduced engine power (limp mode), eventual no-start condition if ignored.
Cause: Failure of the AdBlue quality sensor due to contamination, electrical issues, or software calibration errors, preventing the ECU from verifying fluid purity.
Fix: Diagnose and replace the faulty AdBlue quality sensor; refill the tank with OEM-specified AdBlue fluid and reset the system using diagnostic equipment.
Turbocharger actuator electrical faults
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, Check Engine Light with actuator position codes, whistling noises, reduced power.
Cause: Electrical failure or signal loss in the wiring or connector for the electrically assisted wastegate actuator, often due to heat exposure or connector corrosion.
Fix: Inspect wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion; replace the actuator or repair wiring as necessary; recalibrate the actuator using diagnostic software.
DPF pressure sensor clogging or failure
Symptoms: Check Engine Light with DPF pressure codes, failed regenerations, increased fuel consumption, reduced power.
Cause: Clogging of the pressure sensor ports with soot or failure of the sensor itself, providing incorrect differential pressure readings to the ECU.
Fix: Clean the DPF pressure sensor ports or replace the sensor; perform a forced DPF regeneration and verify sensor readings with diagnostic equipment.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2020-2023) and owner-reported failure data (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about RENAULT M9R-820

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT M9R-820.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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