Renault K9K-700 Engine (2001–2010) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault K9K 700 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2001 and 2010. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), common rail direct injection, and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger. In its most common form, it delivered 65 kW (88 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, designed for urban efficiency and low‑end responsiveness.

Fitted to models such as the Clio II, Mégane II, and Kangoo, the K9K 700 was engineered for compact car practicality and frugal runnin…

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2010 models meet Euro 4 compliance .

Renault K9K-700 Technical Specifications

The Renault K9K 700 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact hatchbacks and vans (2001-2010). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver accessible low‑end torque and urban fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes cost‑effective ownership.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,461 cc
Fuel type
Diesel
Configuration
Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Bore × stroke
76.0 mm × 80.5 mm
Power output
65 kW (88 PS)
Torque
200 Nm @ 1,900 rpm
Fuel system
Siemens VDO common‑rail (up to 1,350 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 3 (pre‑2006); Euro 4 (2006–2010)
Compression ratio
18.8:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett)
Timing system
Chain‑driven
Oil type
Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight
110 kg

Renault K9K-700 Compatible Models

The Renault K9K 700 was used across Renault's B/C platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced sump for the Kangoo and specific ECU mapping for the Clio-and from 2006 the facelifted Mégane II Phase 2 models adopted revised emissions hardware, creating minor ECU interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2001–2005
Models:
Clio II (Phase 2)
Variants:
1.5 dCi 88
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2003–2006
Models:
Mégane II (Phase 1)
Variants:
1.5 dCi 88
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2001–2010
Models:
Kangoo
Variants:
1.5 dCi 88
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. MEC-201
Make:
Nissan
Years:
2003–2007
Models:
Micra K12
Variants:
1.5 dCi
View Source
Nissan EPC #NJ-789

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Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT K9K-700 Compatible Models

Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.

High-pressure fuel pump failure
Symptoms: Engine cranks but won't start, sudden loss of power while driving, diagnostic trouble codes for fuel pressure.
Cause: Internal wear or seizure due to fuel contamination, water ingress, or insufficient lubrication from low-quality diesel.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump with the latest OEM-specified unit; inspect and replace fuel filter and lines if contaminated.
EGR valve and cooler clogging
Symptoms: Rough idle, lack of power, increased fuel consumption, engine management light, failed emissions test.
Cause: Accumulation of soot and carbon deposits from exhaust gas recirculation, exacerbated by short trips and low engine temperatures.
Fix: Remove and clean the EGR valve and cooler assembly per OEM procedure; replace gaskets and perform ECU adaptation reset.
Turbocharger actuator/solenoid faults
Symptoms: Whistling noise, loss of boost pressure, overboost/underboost codes, reduced performance.
Cause: Failure of the vacuum-operated actuator or its electronic control solenoid, often due to cracked hoses or electrical faults.
Fix: Inspect and replace vacuum hoses; test and replace the turbo actuator or boost control solenoid as per diagnostic findings.
Glow plug and relay failures
Symptoms: Difficulty starting, especially in cold weather, glow plug warning light illuminated, rough running on startup.
Cause: Normal wear of glow plugs over time; relay failure due to high current load or poor electrical connections.
Fix: Replace all glow plugs as a set with OEM parts; test and replace the glow plug relay if faulty. Check wiring harness.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT K9K-700 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The K9K 700 is generally robust if maintained well. Its main weakness is the high-pressure fuel pump, which is sensitive to poor fuel quality. Using premium diesel and changing the fuel filter regularly is crucial. With proper care, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 km.

The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump failure, clogged EGR valves, and faulty turbo actuators. Glow plug and relay failures are also common, especially in colder climates. These are well-documented in Renault service notes.

The K9K 700 was primarily used in the Renault Clio II (2001-2005), Mégane II (2003-2006), and Kangoo (2001-2010). It was also found in the Nissan Micra K12 (2003-2007) as part of the Renault-Nissan alliance.

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the K9K-700 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.

Excellent for its era. In a Renault Clio 1.5 dCi, expect around 4.5 L/100km (63 mpg UK) on a combined cycle. Real-world figures typically range from 55-65 mpg UK, depending on driving style and vehicle condition.

Yes. The K9K 700 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (which is rare but possible), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. Regular oil changes help ensure chain longevity.

Renault specifies a 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting the RN0700 standard. This is critical for protecting the turbocharger and maintaining the correct viscosity for the high-pressure fuel system. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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Primary Sources

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.

Regulatory Context

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.

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