The Renault K9K 768 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2007 and 2018. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 12 valves. Common — rail direct injection and a fixed — geometry turbocharger deliver outputs ranging from 63 kW (85 PS) to 72 kW (98 PS), providing strong low — rpm torque for everyday drivability in compact vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Clio III, Modus, and Twingo II, the K9K 768 wa…
Production years 2007–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2018 models meet Euro 5 standards .
The Renault K9K 768 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini and compact city cars (2007-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and frugal fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it prioritizes urban efficiency and low ownership costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,461 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 80.5 mm | |
Power output | 63–72 kW (85–98 PS) | |
Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP1 common‑rail (up to 1,350 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2007–2010); Euro 5 (2011–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 16.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
Oil type | Renault RN0700 or RN0710 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 110 kg |
The Renault K9K 768 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds for the Clio versus the Twingo-and from 2011 the introduction of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) for Euro 5 compliance, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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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.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. 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 K9K 768 is generally robust with a simple design, but long-term reliability hinges on preventing EGR and DPF issues. Regular oil changes with the correct specification and avoiding constant short trips are crucial. Well-maintained examples can easily exceed 200,000 km without major problems.
The most frequent issues are EGR valve/cooler clogging, DPF regeneration failures (on Euro 5 models), turbo actuator faults, and injector seal leaks. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins and are often linked to driving patterns and maintenance.
The K9K 768 was primarily used in the Renault Clio III (2007-2012), Renault Modus (2007-2012), and Renault Twingo II (2007-2014). It was also found in the Nissan Micra K13 (2010-2017) as the 1.5 dCi, under the Renault-Nissan alliance partnership.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the K9K-768 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 dCi 85, expect combined figures of around 4.5 L/100km (63 mpg UK). Real-world economy is typically 5.0-5.5 L/100km (51-56 mpg UK) in mixed driving, making it one of the most economical diesels of its time.
Yes. The K9K 768 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons will collide with the valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable and rarely fails if basic maintenance is followed.
Renault specifies RN0700 or RN0710 specification oil, typically SAE 5W-30. For DPF-equipped models (2011+), a low-SAPS (Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, Sulphur) oil is mandatory to prevent DPF clogging. Always use a high-quality synthetic oil.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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