The Renault H4B 401 is a 898 cc, inline‑three turbo‑petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features an aluminium alloy block and head, with a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. This engine uses direct fuel injection and a small turbocharger to deliver surprising performance from its compact displacement.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Clio IV (B/C195) and Twingo III (C13), the H4B 401 was engineered for urban agility and efficiency without sacrificing fun. It offered peppy acceleration for its class, focusing on low-end torque and responsive throttle feel. Emissions compliance was met through direct injection and a close-coupled catalytic converter, achieving Euro 5 standards.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on the intake valves, which can lead to rough running and reduced performance. This issue, noted in Renault Technical Bulletin TB-14-07, is inherent to direct injection engines without port wash. In 2015, Renault introduced a software update to optimize injection timing and reduce deposit formation.
Production years 2012–2018 meet Euro 5 emissions standards across all markets (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 - Historical Context).
The Renault H4B 401 is a 898 cc inline‑three turbo‑petrol engineered for city and supermini applications (2012-2018). It combines direct fuel injection with a small turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and brisk acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances spirited performance with impressive fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 898 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 72.2 mm × 73.1 mm | |
| Power output | 66–80 kW (90–109 PS) | |
| Torque | 135–160 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 / ACEA C3 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 95 kg |
The small turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and injector wear. RN0700 (5W-30) oil is critical for its low-SAPS formulation, which protects the catalytic converter. Extended idling should be minimized. The direct injection system is prone to intake valve carbon buildup, which can be mitigated with periodic cleaning or fuel system additives designed for GDI engines. The timing belt must be replaced at 120,000 km to prevent interference engine damage.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 / ACEA C3 (5W-30) specification (Renault Service Manual C195). This is mandatory for emissions system longevity.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2012-2018) (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 - Historical Context).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies between 90 PS and 109 PS depending on ECU mapping (Renault Group PT-2016).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TB-13-01, TB-14-07, Service Manual C195
Renault EPC Catalogue
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Historical Context)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault H4B 401 was used across Renault's B/C195 and C13 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-primarily different engine mounts and intake manifolds for the Clio IV and Twingo III. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS Doc. C195-01). The full code "H4B 401" should be clearly visible. Visually, it can be identified by its compact three-cylinder configuration, twin camshaft covers, and the Honeywell turbocharger on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from the similar H4B 400: The H4B 401 produces 90-109 PS, while the H4B 400 produces 65 PS and has a different turbocharger and ECU mapping. Service parts for the turbo and fuel system are generally not interchangeable between these variants.
The H4B 401's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup on the intake valves, a common trait of direct injection engines. Renault workshop data indicates this can lead to misfires and reduced performance if not addressed. Extended oil change intervals and poor fuel quality make adherence to the specified 5W-30 oil and periodic intake cleaning critical. Secondary risk is timing belt failure if neglected beyond its 120,000 km service interval.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and historical workshop data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT H4B-401.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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