Renault Trafic Turbo

On the diesel Trafic, a single 2.0 dCi can hide seven distinct engine codes — and just as many different turbos

It's the most common pitfall with this range: ordering a turbo for a Trafic 2.0 dCi 114 hp without checking the engine code. Yet that one power output covers engine codes M9R and M9T — two entirely separate engine families with incompatible turbo references. The engine code stamped on the block (M9R 630, M9R 780, M9T 670, M9T 692…) is the only reliable way to identify the correct reference. The same applies to the 1.6 dCi: the 120, 125, 140 and 145 hp outputs are spread across two catalogue entries (R9M408 to R9M452 depending on the series), and a mix-up results in the wrong boost pressure or an incompatible geometry.

Seven engine variants, very different turbo architectures

The diesel Trafic covers a wide range: the 2.8 D / 2.8 TD (codes S9W700, S9W702) is an older block with fixed geometry and no electronic actuator. The 1.9 dCi (F9Q, D4192T4 and their derivatives) was fitted to intermediate generations with a variable-geometry turbo using pneumatic control. The 2.2 dCi 90 hp (G9T 720, G9T 722, G9T 750) has its own mapping and its own references. The more recent 2.0 dCi and 1.6 dCi use electronically controlled variable-geometry turbos, which are more sensitive to oil quality and intake circuit fouling.

Causes of failure and points to check before fitting

On M9R and M9T blocks, the turbo is particularly vulnerable to insufficient lubrication after a hot shutdown or when starting with degraded oil — the bearings fail without warning. On F9Q engines, gradual fouling of the CHRA by crankcase oil is common. A sharp whistling noise, persistent grey smoke at idle, or a sudden loss of power are the most frequent symptoms, regardless of engine type. Before any replacement, it is essential to identify and address the root cause of the failure: an air leak on the intake hose, a faulty head gasket, a blocked oil filter, or a blocked turbo oil return line. Fitting a new turbo to an engine where the underlying cause has not been rectified will invariably lead to another failure. All turbos listed here are new parts, sold direct with no old unit to return.