The Dacia H4M 438 is a 1,397cc, inline — four petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2020. It forms part of the Renault — Nissan — Mitsubishi Alliance's H4M engine family, co — developed with Nissan and Renault. Featuring DOHC, 16 — valve architecture and multi — point fuel injection, it delivers 70 kW (95 PS) and 130 Nm of torque, offering reliable performance for urban and regional driving.
Fitted to models such as the Dacia Sandero, Logan, and Dokker, the H4M 438 was engineer…
Production years 2012–2020 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Dacia H4M 438 is a 1,397 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and utility vehicles (2012–2020). It combines multi-point fuel injection with dual overhead camshafts to deliver responsive city driving and economical cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances cost-effective ownership with everyday usability.
| 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 × 79.0 mm | |
Power output | 70 kW (95 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 130 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (single-row, rear-mounted) | |
Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5) | |
Dry weight | 108 kg |
The Dacia H4M 438 was used across Dacia's Global Access Platform with transverse mounting and shared with Renault and Nissan under Alliance agreements. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Sandero and reinforced mounts in the Logan MCV-and from 2016 the facelifted Sandero Stepway adopted revised ECU mapping for improved cold-start emissions, creating calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The H4M 438's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Renault quality reports from 2016 indicated a measurable rate of pre-2015 engines requiring chain service before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a notable share of emissions-related MOT failures to catalytic converter degradation in high-mileage examples. Frequent cold starts and extended idling increase guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The H4M 438 is generally reliable when maintained properly. Early models (2012-2014) had timing chain tensioner concerns, but post-2015 revisions resolved most issues. With regular oil changes (every 15,000 km) using SAE 5W-30 ACEA A5/B5 oil, these engines often exceed 200,000 km. Avoid short-trip driving without warm-up cycles to minimise carbon buildup and ensure longevity.
The main issues are timing chain tensioner wear (especially pre-2015), intake valve carbon buildup due to port injection, coolant leaks from the thermostat housing, and ignition coil failures. These are documented in Renault service bulletins. Catalytic converter degradation can occur on high-mileage vehicles with poor maintenance history.
The H4M 438 engine was used in the Dacia Sandero (SCe 90), Logan (SCe 90), and Dokker (SCe 90) from 2012 to 2020. It was also shared across the Renault-Nissan Alliance, appearing in the Renault Clio 1.2 16V and Nissan Micra 1.4 Acenta. All applications meet Euro 5 emissions standards.
Limited tuning potential exists. ECU remaps can yield modest gains (~5-10 kW) by optimising fuel and ignition maps, but the naturally aspirated design and compression ratio limit output. Aftermarket exhausts or intake systems offer minimal benefit. Most owners prioritise reliability over performance, and significant modifications are not cost-effective for this engine.
In real-world driving, expect 6.0–7.5 L/100km (47–39 mpg UK) depending on model and driving style. The Sandero SCe 90 achieves approximately 5.8 L/100km (49 mpg UK) on mixed routes. Fuel economy benefits from the engine's lightweight design and low friction, but city driving with short trips reduces efficiency due to incomplete warm-up cycles.
Yes. The H4M 438 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons can contact the open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. This makes proper maintenance of the chain and tensioner critical. Any rattling noise at cold start should be investigated immediately to prevent catastrophic failure.
The manufacturer specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5 standards. Renault-approved oils include RN0700 specification. Change intervals are up to 15,000 km under normal conditions. Using correct oil ensures proper timing chain lubrication and reduces wear on hydraulic tappets and valve train components.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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