The Dacia H4B 408 is a 1,000 cc, inline-three, turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. Developed by Renault as part of the H-Type engine family, it features a cast-iron block, aluminium head, and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) with a turbocharger. It delivers 73 kW (100 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 160 Nm of torque between 2,000–3,000 rpm, offering improved performance over naturally aspirated predecessors. The design prioritises compactness and efficiency for small urban vehicles.
Fitted to core models such as the Sandero (J90), Logan (L90), and Duster (B90), the H4B 408 was engineered for responsive city driving and light highway use. Its character emphasizes low-end torque for effortless urban overtaking, with emissions compliance achieved via a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop oxygen sensor. The engine meets Euro 6d-TEMP standards as verified under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 and VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly under high-temperature operation or extended service intervals. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Information Bulletin TDB/04/18, can lead to belt slippage or breakage. In 2020, an updated tensioner design with improved elastomer resistance was introduced across the H4B engine series to enhance reliability.
All production years (2018–2023) comply with Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Dacia H4B 408 is a 1,000 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine designed for compact and crossover vehicles (2018–2023). It combines turbocharging with multi-point fuel injection to deliver strong low-RPM torque and improved fuel efficiency. Engineered to meet Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards, it balances performance and environmental compliance for urban applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 75.0 mm | |
| Power output | 73 kW (100 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 2,000–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | BorgWarner KP35 (integrated exhaust manifold) | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (ACEA C3) | |
| Dry weight | 92 kg |
The turbocharged design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires adherence to the 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Use of SAE 5W-30 oil meeting ACEA C3 specifications ensures proper turbocharger and timing system lubrication. The integrated exhaust manifold improves warm-up time and emissions performance. Post-2020 models benefit from revised tensioner design; earlier units should be inspected per Renault SIB TDB/04/18. The MPFI system is robust but benefits from periodic injector cleaning. The catalytic converter requires regular full-load operation to prevent clogging in predominantly urban use.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting ACEA C3 standard (Renault SIB OIL/05/19). Compatible with API SN/CF.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all models (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output unchanged across fuel grades (Renault TIS Doc. M12801).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M12801, M12802, M12803, SIB TDB/04/18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Dacia H4B 408 was used across Dacia's L90/J90/B90 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Renault for badge-engineered variants. This engine received platform-specific tuning—slightly higher boost in the Duster and revised torque delivery in the Sandero Stepway—and from 2020 the updated tensioner design improved timing belt reliability, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Renault TIS M12801). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for H4B series). Pre-2020 models have a silver turbocharger housing with black plastic timing cover; post-2020 units use an updated black composite tensioner. Critical differentiation from H5F: H4B 408 has a three-cylinder layout with integrated exhaust manifold, while H5F is a four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine. Service parts require production date verification—timing kits for engines before 04/2020 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Renault SIB TDB/04/18).
The H4B 408's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in hot climates and extended service cycles. Renault internal reports from 2021 indicated a significant share of pre-2020 engines required belt replacement before 100,000 km, while VCA data links timing-related failures to neglected maintenance in fleet-operated vehicles. High ambient temperatures and infrequent full-load operation increase belt and tensioner stress, making adherence to replacement intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2018-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA H4B408.
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