The Dacia H4M 730 is a 1,397 cc, inline — four petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2020. It forms part of the Renault — Nissan — Mitsubishi MCE (Modular Common Engine) family, co — developed with Nissan and Renault. Designed for affordability and durability, it features multi — point fuel injection (MPi), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing (VVT), producing 59 kW (80 PS) with 120 Nm of torque.
Fitted to models such as the Sandero, Logan, and Dokker, th…
Production years 2012–2020 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Dacia H4M 730 is a 1,397 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and utility vehicles (2012–2020). It combines multi-point fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver balanced drivability and fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it prioritises reliability and serviceability in high-mileage and emerging-market applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,397 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 79.0 mm | |
Power output | 59 kW (80 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
Torque | 120 Nm @ 2,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPi) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
Timing system | Timing chain (maintenance-free design) | |
Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5) | |
Dry weight | 98 kg |
The Dacia H4M 730 was used across Dacia's Sandero/Logan/Dokker platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Sandero and revised exhaust routing in the Dokker-and from 2017 the facelifted Logan II adopted updated PCV and piston ring designs, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The H4M 730's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving. Renault internal field reports from 2018 noted a measurable increase in idle instability and misfires in city-driven vehicles beyond 60,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows elevated CO/HC emissions linked to clogged valves. Short journeys and low oil change frequency accelerate deposit formation, making fuel quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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Yes, the H4M 730 is generally reliable when maintained properly. Its simple naturally aspirated design and timing chain contribute to durability. The main concern is intake carbon buildup after 60,000 km in city driving, but this can be managed with regular servicing. Using quality 5W-30 oil and adhering to service intervals ensures long-term reliability in high-mileage applications.
The most common issues are intake valve carbon buildup causing rough idle, throttle body contamination requiring cleaning, coolant leaks from the thermostat housing, and occasional ignition coil failures. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins. The engine is otherwise robust, with no widespread mechanical failures reported in official field data.
The H4M 730 engine was used in the Dacia Sandero (2012–2020), Logan (2012–2020), and Dokker (2012–2020), all badged as SCe 80. It was also used in the Renault Clio IV (1.4 80) during the same period. All models meet Euro 5 emissions standards and feature transverse front-wheel-drive layouts.
Limited tuning potential exists. ECU remapping offers minimal gains due to the naturally aspirated design and MPi fuel system. Most power increases come from induction and exhaust modifications, but returns are modest (5–10%). The stock internals are durable, but significant tuning is not cost-effective. Focus is better placed on maintenance and driving efficiency.
In real-world driving, expect 6.0–7.0 L/100km (40–47 mpg UK) in mixed conditions. The Sandero SCe 80 achieves approximately 5.8 L/100km (49 mpg UK) on highways and 7.2 L/100km (39 mpg UK) in cities. Fuel economy depends heavily on driving style, with gentle acceleration and higher gears improving efficiency. Uses standard 95 RON petrol.
Yes, the H4M 730 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in bent valves or damaged pistons. However, the chain is sealed and designed for the engine's lifetime when oil is changed regularly. No catastrophic timing failures have been reported in field data when maintenance is followed.
The manufacturer specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting ACEA A1/B1 or A5/B5 standards. Renault Dacia recommends oil changes every 15,000 km or 12 months. Using the correct oil ensures optimal fuel economy, reduces sludge formation, and protects the timing chain and PCV system. API SN-grade oils are acceptable if ACEA-spec oils are unavailable.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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