Renault ZD3-202 Engine (2018–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault ZD3 202 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features a DOHC 16‑valve layout, common‑rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering 88 kW (120 PS) and 260 Nm of torque. This compact diesel was engineered for urban efficiency with strong low‑rpm torque for everyday drivability.

Fitted primarily to the B‑segment Renault Clio V and Captur II, the ZD3 202 was designed for fuel‑efficient…

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards .

Renault ZD3-202 Technical Specifications

The Renault ZD3 202 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2018–2023). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and efficient urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances everyday performance with stringent emissions compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,461 cc
Fuel type
Diesel
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Bore × stroke
72.2 mm × 89.0 mm
Power output
88 kW (120 PS)
Torque
260 Nm @ 1,750 rpm
Fuel system
Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 2,000 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 6d-TEMP
Compression ratio
16.0:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Single variable‑geometry turbo (Honeywell)
Timing system
Chain (front‑mounted)
Oil type
Renault RN1720 (SAE 0W‑30)
Dry weight
124 kg

Renault ZD3-202 Compatible Models

The Renault ZD3 202 was used across Renault's CMF-B platform with transverse mounting and shared with Nissan for select European applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Captur II and revised intake routing in the Clio V—and from early 2021 the updated EGR cooler and ECU calibration, creating minor interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Nissan's 1.5 dCi units to use the same base engine architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
Clio V (CMF-B)
Variants:
1.5 dCi 120
View Source
Renault Group PT-2022
Make:
Renault
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
Captur II (CMF-B)
Variants:
1.5 dCi 120
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. M16‑9975
Make:
Nissan
Years:
2020–2023
Models:
Juke (NISMO RS)
Variants:
1.5 dCi
View Source
Nissan EPC #NJ‑1142

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Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT ZD3-202 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.

Low-pressure EGR cooler leakage
Symptoms: Coolant loss without visible external leak, white exhaust smoke on cold start, milky oil residue, elevated DPF regeneration frequency.
Cause: Thermal fatigue cracking in early aluminum cooler housings due to repeated expansion/contraction under urban driving cycles.
Fix: Replace with latest OEM-specified EGR cooler assembly and flush cooling system per service bulletin; inspect for coolant contamination in oil and DPF.
DPF regeneration failure
Symptoms: Limp mode, excessive soot smell, reduced power, DPF warning light, frequent forced regenerations.
Cause: Insufficient exhaust temperatures in urban driving prevent passive regeneration; oil ash and soot overload the filter.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via diagnostics; if saturation exceeds threshold, replace DPF per OEM procedure and verify EGR function.
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear
Symptoms: Hard cold starts, hesitation under acceleration, fuel pressure DTCs, metallic particles in fuel filter.
Cause: Bosch CP4.2 pump susceptible to wear under low-lubricity fuel and thermal cycling; marginal fuel quality accelerates degradation.
Fix: Replace with latest OEM-specified pump assembly and update ECU calibration per service bulletin; inspect fuel filter and lines for contamination.
Timing chain tensioner rattle
Symptoms: Ticking/rattle on cold start that subsides after warm-up, cam correlation faults in severe cases.
Cause: Chain tensioner wear exacerbated by extended oil change intervals or incorrect oil viscosity.
Fix: Inspect tensioner and guides; replace with OEM kit if wear exceeds tolerance. Use only RN1720 oil and adhere to service intervals.
Research Basis

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

RENAULT ZD3-202 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The ZD3 202 offers excellent urban efficiency and torque, but early models (2018–early 2021) had EGR cooler reliability concerns. Later revisions improved thermal durability. With strict adherence to oil changes (RN1720 0W-30) and use of EN 590 diesel, well-maintained examples can exceed 200,000 km without major issues.

The top issues are low-pressure EGR cooler leakage, DPF regeneration failures in urban use, HPFP wear, and occasional timing chain tensioner rattle. These are documented in Renault service bulletins, particularly SIB 7723E for the EGR system.

The ZD3 202 powered the Renault Clio V (1.5 dCi 120) and Captur II (1.5 dCi 120) from 2019–2023. It was also used in the Nissan Juke (1.5 dCi) from 2020–2023. All variants include a DPF and meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards.

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the ZD3-202 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 class. In a Clio V 1.5 dCi 120, expect ~4.2 L/100km (city) and ~3.0 L/100km (highway), or ~67 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 60–70 mpg UK if DPF regeneration cycles are completed regularly.

Yes. The ZD3 series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic internal damage. Regular oil changes and prompt attention to chain noise are essential to prevent this.

Renault specifies 0W-30 synthetic oil meeting RN1720 (or newer) standard. This low-SAPS oil protects the DPF, SCR, and HPFP. Change intervals should not exceed 20,000 km or 12 months.

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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