Renault K9K-782 Engine (2008–2015) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault K9K 782 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), common rail direct injection, and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger. In its primary 65 kW (88 PS) tune, it delivers 200 Nm of torque, with the variable geometry turbo (VGT) variant offering 81 kW (110 PS). The SOHC design prioritises cost‑effectiveness and compact packaging for city and supermini applications.

Fitted to models s…

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2008–2011 meet Euro 4 standards; 2012–2015 models with VGT meet Euro 5 compliance depending on market .

Renault K9K-782 Technical Specifications

The Renault K9K 782 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for supermini and city cars (2008-2015). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry or variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑end torque and frugal fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and later Euro 5) standards, it balances urban agility with running cost economy.

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
65–81 kW (88–110 PS)
Torque
200–240 Nm @ 1,500–2,000 rpm
Fuel system
Siemens VDO common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 4 (pre‑2012); Euro 5 (VGT models, 2012+)
Compression ratio
15.8:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Fixed‑geometry (65 kW) or Variable‑geometry (81 kW)
Timing system
Chain‑driven
Oil type
Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight
110 kg

Renault K9K-782 Compatible Models

The Renault K9K 782 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Modus and revised intake manifolds in the Clio III-and from 2012 the introduction of the VGT variant for higher output, creating minor parts differences. Nissan and Dacia also utilised this engine family under licensing. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2012
Models:
Clio III
Variants:
1.5 dCi 86
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2008–2012
Models:
Modus
Variants:
1.5 dCi 86
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. K9K-003
Make:
Renault
Years:
2011–2014
Models:
Twingo II
Variants:
1.5 dCi 86
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. K9K-004
Make:
Dacia
Years:
2008–2012
Models:
Sandero
Variants:
1.5 dCi 85
View Source
Dacia EPC #DC-789
Make:
Nissan
Years:
2010–2015
Models:
Micra K13
Variants:
1.5 dCi
View Source
Nissan EPC #NJ-456

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Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT K9K-782 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: Rough idle, hesitation under acceleration, increased fuel consumption, engine management light with EGR-related fault codes.
Cause: Accumulation of carbon and soot deposits in the EGR valve, passages, and cooler core, restricting exhaust gas flow and cooling efficiency.
Fix: Clean or replace the EGR valve and cooler assembly per latest Renault service procedure; update ECU software if applicable to optimise EGR duty cycle.
Turbocharger actuator failure (VGT models)
Symptoms: Loss of power, especially at higher RPM, whistling or hissing noises, overboost/underboost fault codes.
Cause: Wear or seizure in the variable geometry turbo actuator linkage or vacuum diaphragm, preventing proper vane adjustment.
Fix: Replace the faulty actuator or the entire turbocharger assembly with the latest OEM-specified part; inspect vacuum lines and solenoid.
Glow plug and module failure
Symptoms: Difficulty starting, especially in cold weather, prolonged cranking, glow plug warning light illumination.
Cause: Normal wear of glow plugs or failure of the electronic control module that manages pre- and post-heating cycles.
Fix: Replace all glow plugs as a set with OEM parts and test/replace the glow plug control module if necessary; verify battery condition.
Oil leaks from rocker cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil residue on the top/rear of the engine, burning oil smell, gradual drop in oil level on dipstick.
Cause: Degradation of the rubber rocker cover gasket over time and heat cycles, leading to seepage at the sealing surface.
Fix: Replace the rocker cover gasket with a new OEM part; ensure the cover is torqued to specification and the sealing surface is clean.
Research Basis

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

RENAULT K9K-782 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 782 is generally robust for its class, with the chain-driven timing system being very durable. Its main weakness is the EGR system, which clogs easily in city-driven cars. With proactive maintenance—especially cleaning the EGR every 40,000–60,000 km—and using the correct 5W-30 oil, these engines can easily surpass 200,000 km.

The most frequent issues are EGR valve/cooler clogging causing running problems, turbo actuator failure on VGT models leading to power loss, and glow plug/module failures affecting cold starts. Oil leaks from the rocker cover gasket are also common as the engine ages. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins.

This 1.5L dCi engine was used in the Renault Clio III (2008–2012), Modus (2008–2012), and Twingo II (2011–2014). It was also licensed to Dacia for the Sandero (2008–2012) and to Nissan for the Micra K13 (2010–2015). Power outputs were 65 kW (88 PS) or 81 kW (110 PS) with the VGT turbo.

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the K9K-782 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 III 1.5 dCi, expect real-world figures of ~5.0 L/100km (56 mpg UK) on a mixed run and ~4.0 L/100km (70 mpg UK) on a steady motorway cruise. City driving will be higher, around 6.0–6.5 L/100km (43–47 mpg UK), depending on traffic and EGR condition.

Yes. The K9K 782 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (which is very rare) or jump timing, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. Fortunately, the chain is extremely durable and rarely fails if oil is changed regularly.

Renault mandates oil meeting the RN0700 specification, typically a 5W-30 synthetic. Using the correct low-ash oil is vital for protecting the turbocharger and minimising soot buildup in the EGR system. Always change the oil at or before the 20,000 km service interval.

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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