The Renault M9R 865 is a 1,995 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2018. Developed jointly with Nissan under the Renault–Nissan Alliance, it features a common‑rail fuel system, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivered 120 kW (163 PS), with torque peaking at 380 Nm for responsive performance across the rev range.
Fitted to models such as the Mégane IV, Scénic IV, and Espace V—including the dCi 160 variants—the M9R 865 was engineered for refined drivability and compliance with stringent Euro 6b emissions standards. Emissions control was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection.
One documented concern is AdBlue system crystallisation in cold or infrequent-use conditions, highlighted in Renault Service Information Bulletin NTM 10‑089. This issue stems from improper dosing or use of non-compliant fluid, leading to injector blockage and NOx catalyst inefficiency. From 2016, revised dosing strategies and fluid quality advisories were reinforced to improve system robustness.

Production years 2015–2018 meet Euro 6b standards across all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault M9R 865 is a 1,995 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size platforms (2015–2018). It combines Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver smooth torque and responsive acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 6b emissions from launch, it integrates SCR/AdBlue technology alongside EGR and DPF systems.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 120 kW (163 PS) | |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0720 (ACEA C3, SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 172 kg |
The M9R 865 delivers smooth, high-torque performance ideal for both urban and highway use but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to protect the CP4.2 fuel pump and timing chain. Renault RN0720 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its low-SAPS formulation, which safeguards the DPF, SCR catalyst, and turbocharger. Use only ISO 22241-compliant AdBlue and EN 590 diesel to prevent SCR injector crystallisation and fuel pump wear. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate carbon buildup in the EGR and intake. AdBlue system integrity must be maintained—low-quality fluid can permanently damage the NOx catalyst.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0720 (5W-30) specification (Renault SIB NTM 08‑112). Equivalent to ACEA C3 but with OEM-specific additive limits.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to all 2015–2018 M9R 865 engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. 120 kW output requires EN 590-compliant diesel with minimum lubricity (Renault TIS Doc. M9R‑010).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M9R‑001, M9R‑002, M9R‑005, NTM 07‑045, NTM 10‑089
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Renault M9R 865 was used across Renault's Mégane IV and Scénic IV platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Nissan for select Euro 6 applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—enhanced cooling in the Espace V and revised engine mounts in the Kadjar—and from 2017 the introduction of updated AdBlue control modules created minor interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Nissan's dCi 160 variant in the X-Trail (T32). All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side engine block near the cylinder head (Renault TIS M9R‑003). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('8' for M9R 865). All M9R 865 units feature black cam covers and Continental EMS3125 ECU with AdBlue dosing module. Critical differentiation from M9R 854: M9R 865 is the 163 PS variant with revised boost map and updated NOx sensor calibration. Service parts require production date verification—AdBlue injectors for engines before 03/2016 use different electrical connectors per Renault NTM 10‑089.
The M9R 865's primary reliability risk is AdBlue system crystallisation, with elevated incidence in vehicles using non-certified fluid or driven infrequently. Renault field reports from 2017 noted a significant share of dCi 160 vehicles requiring AdBlue injector replacement before 80,000 km in cold climates, while UK DVSA MOT data links NOx-related emissions failures to fluid quality issues in Euro 6 diesels. Extended short-trip driving and neglect of AdBlue top-ups further accelerate system degradation, making fluid compliance and usage patterns critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2015–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT M9R-865.
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