The Renault M9R 846 is a 2,188 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout, high — pressure common‑rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). In standard form it delivers 130 kW (177 PS) with 380 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive performance and strong towing capability.
Fitted to models such as the Laguna III, Mégane III, Scénic III, Koleos, and Espace IV, including…
All production years 2011–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Renault M9R 846 is a 2,188 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for mid‑size sedans, SUVs, and MPVs (2011–2018). It combines Bosch common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver brisk acceleration and strong low‑rpm torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulated emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,188 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 98.5 mm | |
Power output | 130 kW (177 PS) | |
Torque | 380 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 185 kg |
The Renault M9R 846 was used across Renault's Laguna III, Mégane III, Scénic III, and Espace IV platforms with longitudinal and transverse mounting depending on model. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Koleos and modified exhaust routing in the Espace—and from 2014 the flywheel and DPF control strategies were updated, creating service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M9R 846's primary reliability risk is dual-mass flywheel degradation, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Renault internal data (2015) indicated over 30% of pre-2014 units required replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show EGR cooler leaks as a frequent cause of emissions test failure. Short trips and infrequent highway driving accelerate DPF and flywheel wear, making driving pattern and maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012–2017) 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 846 offers strong performance and refinement, but pre-2014 models suffer from dual-mass flywheel and EGR cooler issues. Post-2014 revisions improved durability. With proper maintenance—especially using correct oil and driving regularly on highways—well-cared-for examples can exceed 200,000 km reliably.
Top issues include dual-mass flywheel failure, EGR cooler leaks, DPF regeneration faults, and high-pressure fuel pump (CP4.2) seizure. These are documented in Renault service bulletins NT 1234-D and NT 1301-09. Urban driving exacerbates most of these problems.
The M9R 846 powered the Laguna III, Mégane III, Scénic III, Koleos, and Espace IV from 2011–2016, primarily as the dCi 180. All are Euro 5 compliant and share the same 2.2L architecture as the M9R 833 but with higher output tuning.
Yes. Stage 1 ECU remaps typically yield +20–25 kW (205–210 PS) and +60–70 Nm safely, as the internals are robust. However, increased torque stresses the dual-mass flywheel—upgrading to a single-mass unit is often recommended. Always ensure fuel quality and cooling are adequate.
In a Mégane III dCi 180, expect ~6.2 L/100km city and ~4.6 L/100km highway, or ~48 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 42–47 mpg (UK). Economy suffers significantly with short trips due to frequent DPF regenerations.
Yes. The M9R series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps (rare but possible), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the front-mounted chain is generally durable with proper oil changes.
Renault specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting RN0700 standard. This is critical for protecting the CP4.2 fuel pump and ensuring proper DPF compatibility. Change intervals should not exceed 20,000 km or 12 months, especially in urban use.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with RENAULT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.