Renault M9R-817 Engine (2018–2021) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault M9R 817 is a 2,148 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2018 and 2021. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) 16 — valve design with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and high — pressure common rail direct injection. This configuration delivers a robust 120 kW (163 PS) and 380 Nm of torque, providing strong, linear power ideal for highway cruising and everyday efficiency.

Fitted exclusively to the Talisman and Espace V, the M9R 817 w…

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2018–2021 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards .

Renault M9R-817 Technical Specifications

The Renault M9R 817 is a 2,148 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for large sedans and MPVs (2018-2021). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver strong, linear power and efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances performance with advanced emissions control.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
2,148 cc
Fuel type
Diesel
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Bore × stroke
88.0 mm × 88.4 mm
Power output
120 kW (163 PS) @ 3,750 rpm
Torque
380 Nm @ 2,000 rpm
Fuel system
Bosch CP4 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 6d-TEMP
Compression ratio
15.8:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett)
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
Renault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight
185 kg

Renault M9R-817 Compatible Models

The Renault M9R 817 was used across Renault's Talisman/Espace V platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Espace for load-bearing-and minor ECU updates for emissions compliance, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2018–2021
Models:
Talisman
Variants:
2.0 dCi 160
View Source
Renault Group PT-2021
Make:
Renault
Years:
2018–2021
Models:
Espace V
Variants:
2.0 dCi 160 Initiale
View Source
Renault Technical Manual 77 11 392 901

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Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT M9R-817 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, loss of power under load, fuel pressure DTCs (P0087/P0088), whining noise from fuel tank area.
Cause: Failure of the internal pressure regulator within the mechanical high-pressure fuel pump, potentially exacerbated by low fuel levels, contaminated fuel, or use of non-compliant fuel additives.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump assembly with a new OEM unit; inspect fuel filter and lines for contamination during replacement. Use only EN 590 compliant diesel fuel.
AdBlue injector nozzle crystallization
Symptoms: Reduced engine power, SCR system warning light, AdBlue system fault codes (e.g., P20E8), increased NOx emissions.
Cause: Crystallization of urea deposits within the AdBlue injector nozzle, restricting fluid flow and preventing proper dosing into the exhaust stream.
Fix: Replace the faulty AdBlue injector with the latest OEM-specified part per Renault technical procedure; ensure only genuine AdBlue fluid is used thereafter.
DPF regeneration failure
Symptoms: Engine enters limp mode, warning light for DPF, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, burning smell.
Cause: Insufficient exhaust temperatures during short journeys preventing passive regeneration, leading to excessive soot accumulation in the DPF.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via diagnostic tool; if unsuccessful, remove and professionally clean or replace the DPF. Advise customer on driving habits to promote passive regeneration.
Turbocharger actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost, overboost/underboost fault codes, whistling or hissing noises from turbo area, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Wear or sticking of the variable geometry turbocharger's electronic actuator mechanism, often due to heat exposure or carbon buildup.
Fix: Replace the faulty turbo actuator with the latest OEM-specified part; recalibrate the actuator using Renault diagnostic equipment after installation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2018-2021) and owner-reported failure data (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT M9R-817 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The M9R 817 is generally a robust engine when maintained correctly. Its main weakness is the high-pressure fuel pump, which requires high-quality fuel to function reliably. With strict adherence to Renault's 20,000 km service schedule, use of RN0710 oil, and only EN 590 compliant diesel, the engine can easily exceed 200,000 km without major issues.

The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump failure (causing hard starting), AdBlue injector crystallization (causing SCR faults), DPF regeneration failure (leading to limp mode), and turbo actuator failure (causing boost control issues). These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins and owner forums.

The M9R 817 2.0L dCi 160 engine was used exclusively in the Renault Talisman (2018-2021) and Espace V (2018-2021). It was a lower-output variant compared to the M9R 802, offering strong torque with a focus on emissions compliance under Euro 6d-TEMP.

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the M9R-817 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.

Real-world fuel economy is very good for its power output. Expect around 7.6 L/100km (37 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a Talisman or Espace. Highway cruising can return figures close to 6.1 L/100km (46 mpg UK) when driven gently. The addition of the SCR system adds slight complexity but doesn't significantly impact consumption.

Yes. The M9R 817 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable with proper maintenance using the correct oil.

Renault mandates the use of RN0710 specification oil, typically SAE 5W-40 viscosity. Using this specific oil is crucial for the longevity of the timing chain, turbocharger, and emissions systems. Always use a high-quality, fully synthetic oil that meets this standard and change it every 20,000 km or annually.

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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