The Dacia H4M 430 is a 1,397 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2018. It was developed by Renault for use across its value-focused brands, including Dacia, and features multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves. In standard form, it delivers 63 kW (86 PS) at 5,500 rpm and 125 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm, offering reliable performance suited to urban and light highway use.
Fitted to models such as the Sandero, Logan, and Duster, the H4M 430 was engineered for affordability, ease of maintenance, and fuel economy in entry-level configurations. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda feedback control, allowing the engine to meet Euro 4 standards through 2010, with minor revisions enabling Euro 5 compliance for later production years depending on market regulations.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in hot climates or under extended service intervals. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Information Bulletin TIS-ENG-2014-H4M, can lead to belt slippage or fracture if not addressed. Renault issued updated tensioner components in 2012, and revised maintenance schedules now recommend belt replacement every 120,000 km or 6 years, whichever comes first, to mitigate risk.
Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2018 models meet Euro 5 standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Dacia H4M 430 is a 1,397 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact models (2008–2018). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC 16-valve architecture to deliver responsive city driving characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances cost-effective ownership with acceptable performance and fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,397 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 63 kW (86 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2011); Euro 5 (2011–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt (replacement interval 120,000 km / 6 yrs) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to the 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic engine failure. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting ACEA A5/B5 specifications is recommended to ensure valve train durability and deposit control. Use of low-quality fuel (below 95 RON) may trigger knock sensor activity and reduced performance. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to clogged injectors if poor fuel is used over time. Post-2012 models benefit from revised tensioner design; pre-2012 units should follow updated service intervals per Renault SIB TIS-ENG-2014-H4M. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent warm-up cycles and avoidance of prolonged idling.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A5/B5 or equivalent (Renault SIB TIS-ENG-2014-H4M). Compatible with BMW Longlife-01 FE where specified.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2011 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). All 2011 and later models meet Euro 5 standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Power output stable across 95–98 RON fuels (Renault TIS Doc. H4M-PERF-009).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H4M-TECH-001, H4M-FUEL-005, SIB TIS-ENG-2014-H4M
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Dacia H4M 430 was used across Dacia's Sandero, Logan, and Duster platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Renault models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Sandero and revised exhaust routing in the Duster-and from 2012 the facelifted Logan II adopted updated engine management software, creating minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Renault TIS H4M-ID-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for H4M series). Pre-2012 models have silver valve covers with ribbed plastic cam covers; post-2012 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from K4M: H4M 430 has integrated exhaust manifold in cylinder head, while K4M uses external manifold. Service parts require model-year verification - timing kits for pre-2012 engines are incompatible with post-2012 revisions due to tensioner redesign (Renault SIB TIS-ENG-2014-H4M).
The H4M 430's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on neglected units, with elevated incidence in hot climates and extended service conditions. Internal Renault field reports from 2015 indicated a significant number of pre-2012 engines suffering belt-related damage beyond 100,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows increased catalytic converter failures in urban-driven examples. Infrequent oil changes and low-octane fuel exacerbate valve train and combustion issues, making adherence to service intervals and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2010-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DACIA H4M430.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with DACIA or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
DACIA Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialDACIA documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
