Renault K9K-774 Engine (2008–2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault K9K 774 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2018. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, common rail direct injection, and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger. In standard form it delivered 66 kW (90 PS), with torque figures of 200 Nm, providing strong low‑rpm pull for urban drivability.

Fitted to models such as the Clio III, Mégane III, and Dacia Duster, the K9K 774 was engineered for compact car efficiency and l…

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2018 models meet Euro 5 compliance depending on market .

Renault K9K-774 Technical Specifications

The Renault K9K 774 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini and compact SUV applications (2008-2018). 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 cost‑effective ownership.

ParameterValueSource
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
66 kW (90 PS)
Torque
200 Nm @ 1,750 rpm
Fuel system
Denso common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 4 (pre‑2011); Euro 5 (2011+)
Compression ratio
15.8:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett)
Timing system
Belt‑driven camshaft
Oil type
Renault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight
110 kg

Renault K9K-774 Compatible Models

The Renault K9K 774 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting and licensed to Dacia and Nissan. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Duster and revised cooling in the Mégane-and from 2011 the facelifted Clio models adopted revised ECU mapping for Euro 5 compliance, creating minor software interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Nissan's 1.5 dCi units to share core architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2012
Models:
Clio III
Variants:
1.5 dCi 90
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2015
Models:
Mégane III
Variants:
1.5 dCi 90
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Dacia
Years:
2010–2018
Models:
Duster
Variants:
1.5 dCi 90
View Source
Dacia EPC #D-774
Make:
Nissan
Years:
2010–2013
Models:
Note E11
Variants:
1.5 dCi
View Source
Nissan EPC #N-K9K-774

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Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT K9K-774 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.

EGR valve and cooler clogging
Symptoms: Loss of power, rough idle, increased fuel consumption, EML illumination with EGR-related fault codes.
Cause: Carbon and soot deposits accumulating in the valve and cooler passages, restricting gas flow, exacerbated by short journeys.
Fix: Clean or replace the EGR valve and cooler assembly per Renault procedure; perform ECU adaptation and verify system operation.
DPF regeneration issues
Symptoms: DPF warning light, reduced power (limp mode), increased fuel consumption, exhaust smell.
Cause: Insufficient exhaust temperature for passive regeneration, often due to frequent short trips or a malfunctioning temperature sensor.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via diagnostics; if unsuccessful, clean or replace the DPF. Check/replace temperature sensors and ensure correct oil spec.
Turbocharger actuator failure
Symptoms: Whistling noise, loss of boost, overboost/underboost fault codes, black smoke under acceleration.
Cause: Wear or seizure in the vacuum-operated wastegate actuator diaphragm or linkage, preventing proper boost control.
Fix: Replace the turbocharger actuator unit with the latest OEM part; inspect vacuum lines and solenoid for leaks or blockages.
Injector seal leaks
Symptoms: Oil smell, blue smoke from exhaust (especially on startup), oil level drop, residue around injector bodies.
Cause: Degradation of the copper sealing washers or injector body O-rings at the cylinder head interface, allowing combustion gases into the cam cover.
Fix: Replace injector seals and O-rings with OEM kit; clean injector bores and torque injectors to specification during reassembly.
Research Basis

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

RENAULT K9K-774 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 774 is generally robust mechanically, but its long-term reliability heavily depends on maintenance and driving style. Vehicles used for long journeys and serviced regularly with the correct oil can exceed 200,000 km. The main threats are EGR/DPF issues from short trips and neglected services.

The most frequent issues are EGR valve/cooler clogging, DPF regeneration failures, turbo actuator faults, and injector seal leaks. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins and are often linked to urban driving patterns and maintenance neglect.

This 1.5 dCi 90 engine was used in the Renault Clio III (2008-2012), Mégane III (2008-2015), and Kangoo II. It was also licensed to Dacia for the Duster (2010-2018) and to Nissan for the Note E11 (2010-2013) and Micra K13.

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the K9K-774 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 Clio III, expect 4.5 L/100km (63 mpg UK) on a combined cycle. Real-world figures typically range from 55-65 mpg UK, depending on the model, driving style, and whether EGR/DPF systems are functioning correctly.

Yes. The K9K 774 is an interference engine. If the timing belt snaps, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. Replacing the belt at the recommended interval (typically 120,000 km or 5 years) is non-negotiable.

Renault specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting the RN0710 (or newer RN17) standard. This low-SAPS oil is critical for protecting the DPF and EGR system. Using the wrong oil will lead to premature DPF clogging and potential engine damage.

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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