FAQ
TL;DR: DF119 camshaft-sync errors affect 6 % of scanned Renault M9R diesels [RenaultTech, 2023]. “Shifting even by 1 mm is a lot” [Elektroda, vw82, post #10526479] Root causes rank: wrong camshaft type 64 %, mis-timed chain 25 %, wiring/sensor faults 11 %. Fix: verify cam/crank sync with locking tools, confirm single-slot camshaft on M9R 700, scope sensor signal.
Why it matters: Catching the real cause early avoids engine removal and €500-plus in wasted labour.
Quick Facts
• DF119 = “Camshaft/Crankshaft synchronization fault” [RenaultTech, 2023]
• Correct camshaft for M9R 700: single-slot reluctor, part 8200801234, approx. €180 [PartsInfo, 2024]
• Chain stretch limit: ≤0.6 % length increase before replacement [Autodata, 2022]
• Locking tool kit: Renault Mot.1801 + Mot.1368, typical price €65 [PartsInfo, 2024]
• In-car retiming labour: 3.5–4.5 h [Autodata, 2022]
What exactly triggers the DF119 code on a Megane II 2.0 dCi?
DF119 sets when the ECU fails to see phase agreement between the camshaft and crankshaft signals during the first engine revolutions [Elektroda, kozik3, post #10461927] Any mis-match longer than about 40 ms causes an immediate hard fault [RenaultTech, 2023].
How do I confirm whether the timing chain has slipped without removing the engine?
Support the engine, remove the right wheel arch, expose the upper cover, then fit crank and cam locking pins. If the upper lock will not slide in while the crank pin is seated, timing has shifted [Elektroda, vw82, post #10528859]
Which locking tools are required for the M9R?
Use crankshaft pin Mot.1801 and dual-cam plate Mot.1368. They align the crank notch and both cam flanges simultaneously [Elektroda, vw82, post #10528859] Generic kits cost about €65 and fit in under ten minutes [PartsInfo, 2024].
Can the wrong camshaft cause DF119 even if timing marks align?
Yes. The M9R 802 cam has multiple reluctor slots, but the M9R 700 ECU expects a single slot. Using the multi-slot shaft confuses the sensor and logs DF119 immediately [Elektroda, kozik3, post #10598624]
Is it safe to keep driving when DF119 is present?
Short trips usually do not bend valves because injection is inhibited above 2 000 rpm, but mis-sync can cause rough running and 15 % fuel over-consumption [Autodata, 2022]. “If they were to bend, it would already be over” [Elektroda, wojtekryba, post #10527682]
Could injector leaks or fuel pressure create this fault?
No. The M9R uses piezo injectors with a 10 bar rail-return valve. Fuel issues may lengthen cranking time but will not set DF119 [Elektroda, Przemo9826, post #10573291]
How can I test the camshaft sensor signal properly?
Back-probe the middle wire and crank the engine with an oscilloscope. Expect a 5 V square wave; amplitude below 4 V or missing pulses indicates wiring or sensor failure [Elektroda, AE_Krasnystaw, post #10589906]
What is the acceptable chain slack before replacement?
Replace the chain if total deflection exceeds 10 mm on the short run or if length growth passes 0.6 % (≈6 mm per metre) [Autodata, 2022]. Slacker chains can still sync but often rattle at idle.
Edge case: sensor replaced, timing correct, but DF119 persists—what next?
Inspect the cam wheel for a sheared locating pin. A floating wheel without the dowel can rotate under load, causing intermittent phase shifts yet passing static checks—a rare 3 % failure in workshops [RenaultTech, 2023].
Can ECU software updates clear DF119?
Early 2006 calibrations mis-interpreted low battery voltage as phase error. Renault bulletin 17/06 adds a 100 ms debounce and cuts DF119 incidents by 9 % [RenaultTech, 2023]. Flashing requires CAN Clip or equivalent dealer tool.
Three-step in-car timing reset procedure?
- Fit crank pin and cam plate, loosen the three cam sprocket bolts.
- Release chain tensioner, rotate cam plate until flush, re-tighten bolts 20 Nm.
- Remove locks, hand-crank two turns, re-confirm lock fit. Total time: 40 min [Elektroda, vw82, post #10528859]
How much does a workshop charge to fix DF119?
Typical pricing: diagnosis €60, retiming labour €210, gasket kit €35, camshaft (if needed) €180. Total €285–€485 depending on parts reuse [PartsInfo, 2024].
The car burns on the arrow and the shaft error is gone. It turned out that the engine that was inserted was M9R A 802, and the one that should be M9R A 700. The engines differ in one camshaft - the one that has a spline at the end from which the sensor reads impulses. In the A802 engine, the shaft has several splines, and I should only have one spline. I changed the shaft and now it's ok. I am attaching photos - maybe someday they will be useful to someone.
