The Renault K9K 846 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑three turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium head, common rail direct injection, and a variable‑geometry turbocharger (VGT). In standard form, it delivers 66 kW (90 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, maintaining the efficiency focus while meeting stricter Euro 6 emissions.
Fitted primarily to the Clio IV facelift, Captur I facelift, and Kadjar, the K9K 846 was engineered for global mar…
All production years meet Euro 6 standards (Euro 6b/c depending on model year) .
The Renault K9K 846 is a 1,461 cc inline‑three turbo‑diesel engineered for B/C-segment platforms (2015-2020). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and improved emissions performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it incorporates AdBlue injection for NOx reduction.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,461 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 80.5 mm | |
Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) | |
Torque | 220 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP1 common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 (Euro 6b/c) | |
Compression ratio | 16.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Variable‑geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
Oil type | Renault RN0720 (SAE 0W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 115 kg |
The Renault K9K 846 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised exhaust routing for the Kadjar and updated engine mounts for the Clio IV facelift-and featured a standardized AdBlue tank and injector assembly across all applications. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Engine Finders UK Ltd, which operates EngineCode.uk, can pass your enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. The service is for vehicles in the United Kingdom, with UK delivery or fitting. This is a commercially connected service, and sending an enquiry does not confirm diagnosis or compatibility.
Diagnostic reminder: If a technician has recommended replacing the engine, you can send an enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. Confirm the diagnosis first: an engine-code record does not diagnose a fault.
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 846 is mechanically robust, with its timing chain designed for longevity. Its main vulnerabilities are the EGR system and the AdBlue/SCR system, both prone to issues with urban driving or neglect. With proactive EGR/AdBlue maintenance and strict oil changes using RN0720 spec oil, it can be a dependable engine.
The most frequent issues are EGR valve/cooler failure, AdBlue system faults (injector crystallization, sensor failure), and VGT actuator faults. Glow plug/module problems and oil leaks from the rocker cover are also common. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins like 16D009.
The K9K 846 (90 PS dCi) was primarily used in the Renault Clio IV facelift (2016–2020), Captur I facelift (2017–2020), and Kadjar (2015–2020). It was also fitted to the Nissan Qashqai II (2015–2020) as part of the Renault-Nissan alliance.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the K9K-846 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. In a Clio IV dCi 90, expect combined figures of ~4.0 L/100km (71 mpg UK). Real-world economy is typically 55-65 mpg UK, depending on driving style. Its VGT turbo enhances low-speed efficiency, making it ideal for city driving, while the AdBlue system helps maintain efficiency under stricter emissions rules.
Yes. The K9K 846 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (though rare), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. The chain is very durable with proper maintenance.
Renault mandates the use of RN0720 specification oil, typically a 0W-30 synthetic. This low-SAPS oil is vital for protecting the VGT, maintaining chain lubrication, and ensuring the DPF and SCR systems function correctly without becoming clogged or contaminated.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
EngineCode.uk is operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. It provides engine-reference information and an optional commercial enquiry service. It is not an official manufacturer website. Check the record's sources and confirm vehicle-specific details before relying on it for parts, repairs or replacement.
Our editorial standard prioritises relevant manufacturer documentation and official regulatory sources. The sources and verification status for a record should be checked alongside the data.
A statement is not verified merely because a source is listed. Where supporting evidence is missing or conflicting, the record should identify that limitation. Please report unsupported or inconsistent information.
Transparency in gaps
A missing or unverified value does not mean the manufacturer has withheld it. We distinguish information not yet verified, information not available to us, and information explicitly not disclosed by the source.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Records are subject to review and correction. Source links, dates and verification notes should be read with the technical information. Our Editorial and Sourcing Policy explains our standards and review process.
Found an error or missing source? Report a problem with this page. Include the field or statement concerned and a supporting source if available. You can also email corrections@enginecode.uk.
Copyright and permissions
Images and other material may be protected by copyright. Attribution does not by itself grant permission to reuse material. If you believe material on this site infringes your rights, contact copyrights@enginecode.uk with the page URL and details of your claim. We will review the material and take appropriate action.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
Our Privacy Policy explains how Engine Finders UK Ltd uses information from visits, vehicle lookups, enquiries and messages. Our Cookie Policy explains cookies and similar technologies and how to change your choices.
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
Ownership and commercial services
EngineCode.uk is owned and operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. Alongside our reference content, we offer an optional replacement-engine enquiry service through Engine Finders and may identify relevant services provided by businesses connected with us. These commercial connections are disclosed. Using an enquiry service is not required to read our reference content.
Engine Finders UK Ltd operates this website. Our optional enquiry service has a commercial purpose. Our Ownership and Commercial Disclosure explains the relationship between the reference website and that service. Participating suppliers pay a fee or subscription to participate on the network and receive quote requests.
Use this record as a starting point for identification. Specifications and vehicle applications may contain errors or omissions. Confirm the exact engine variant and compatibility using vehicle-specific documentation and a qualified supplier or technician.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.