Engine Code

Renault H4B-400 Engine (2012–2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault H4B 400 is a 1,197 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin‑scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This compact powerplant delivered 80 kW (109 PS) and 160 Nm of torque, with its turbocharged induction providing strong low‑rpm response for urban agility.

Fitted to models such as the Clio IV RS Line, Twingo III GT, and Captur, the H4B 400 was engineered for dri

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2012–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

Renault H4B-400 Technical Specifications

The Renault H4B 400 is a 1,197 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engineered for supermini and compact SUV applications (2012-2018). It combines direct fuel injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and compact efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances urban performance with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,197 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Bore × stroke
78.0 mm × 83.8 mm
Power output
80 kW (109 PS) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque
160 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm
Fuel system
Direct injection (Bosch MED17.5.5)
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
10.0:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Single twin‑scroll (Garrett)
Timing system
Chain‑driven
Oil type
Renault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight
95 kg

Renault H4B-400 Compatible Models

The Renault H4B 400 was used across Renault's B/C-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Captur and revised intake manifolds for the Twingo GT. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2012–2018
Models:
Clio IV
Variants:
TCe 110, RS Line
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2014–2018
Models:
Twingo III
Variants:
GT
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2013–2018
Models:
Captur
Variants:
TCe 110
View Source
Renault TIS Doc. CAP-001

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT H4B-400 Compatible Models

The H4B 400's primary reliability consideration is intake valve carbon buildup, a common trait of direct injection petrol engines. Renault service data indicates this can lead to drivability issues if neglected, while UK DVSA records show no systemic failures. Adherence to premium fuel and periodic intake cleaning makes this a manageable concern.

Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough or unstable idle, hesitation on acceleration, reduced fuel economy, occasional misfire codes.
Cause: Lack of fuel 'washing' over intake valves in direct injection systems leads to accumulation of oil and carbon deposits.
Fix: Perform periodic walnut-shell or chemical intake valve cleaning per Renault service recommendations; maintain correct oil spec.
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure
Symptoms: Engine cranks but won't start, sudden loss of power, illuminated check engine light with fuel pressure codes.
Cause: Internal wear or failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, often exacerbated by low-quality fuel or infrequent oil changes.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump assembly with a new OEM unit; inspect fuel filter and lines for contamination.
Turbocharger wastegate rattle
Symptoms: Distinct metallic rattle from engine bay, most noticeable at low RPM or during deceleration.
Cause: Wear or play developing in the turbocharger's wastegate linkage or pivot points, a known characteristic on early units.
Fix: Replace the turbocharger assembly or, if available, the specific wastegate repair kit per Renault service bulletin.
Oil consumption (higher than average)
Symptoms: Low oil level warning between services, blue exhaust smoke under heavy acceleration, oil residue on tailpipe.
Cause: Design characteristic of some early H4B engines, where piston ring design or valve stem seal material led to increased oil usage.
Fix: Monitor oil level frequently and top up as needed; if consumption is excessive, consult dealer for potential piston ring upgrade.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT H4B-400 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

Generally yes, with caveats. It's a robust engine when maintained correctly. The main long-term concerns are carbon buildup on intake valves and potential for higher-than-average oil consumption on early builds. Using premium fuel (95 RON) and Renault-spec oil (RN0710) is crucial for longevity.

The most frequently documented issues are intake valve carbon buildup causing rough idle, occasional high-pressure fuel pump failures, and a characteristic turbo wastegate rattle on some units. Higher oil consumption was also noted in early production engines.

The H4B 400 TCe 110 engine was used in the Renault Clio IV (2012-2018), Renault Twingo III GT (2014-2018), and the first-generation Renault Captur (2013-2018). It was not used in Dacia or Nissan models.

Yes, it has good tuning potential. A simple ECU remap can safely increase power to around 130-140 PS. More extensive modifications (larger turbo, injectors) can yield higher figures. However, the standard internals are not designed for extreme power levels, so conservative tuning is advised.

Official combined figures range from 4.5 to 5.0 L/100km (approx. 56-50 mpg UK), depending on the model and gearbox. Real-world driving typically yields 5.5-6.5 L/100km (43-51 mpg UK), with careful driving in a Clio potentially achieving better results.

Yes. The H4B 400 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (which is rare, as it's designed for the engine's lifetime), it would likely result in severe internal damage as the pistons would collide with the open valves.

Renault mandates the use of RN0710 specification oil, typically a 5W-40 synthetic grade. Using the correct oil is vital for protecting the turbocharger, maintaining chain tensioner function, and minimizing carbon buildup. Always refer to your owner's manual.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

Independent Technical Reference

EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with RENAULT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.

Sourcing Policy

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.

Primary Sources

RENAULT 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.

Regulatory Context

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.

Methodology

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

Copyright & Legal

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

Data Privacy

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

Trademarks

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.

Commercial Disclosure

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.

Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT 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.