The Renault H4B 408 is a 1,197 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features direct fuel injection, a single — scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing. In its primary application, it delivers 88 kW (120 PS) and 190 Nm of torque, offering a blend of compact efficiency and spirited low — end response for city and highway driving.
Fitted predominantly to the Renault Clio IV RS and Twingo III GT…
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
The Renault H4B 408 is a 1,197 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for superminis (2012-2018). It combines direct fuel injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive performance and good fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards, it balances compact dimensions with a lively driving character.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
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 | 88 kW (120 PS) | |
Torque | 190 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch MED17.5.5) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012-2014); Euro 6 (2015-2018) | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Garrett GT1246V) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Renault RN0700 5W-40 (or ACEA A3/B4 equivalent) | |
Dry weight | Not Published |
The Renault H4B 408 was used across Renault's CMF-A platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shared ECU calibration with the H5Ft engine family for certain variants-and from 2015, software and hardware updates to meet Euro 6 standards, creating minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The H4B 408's primary reliability consideration is turbocharger wastegate rattle, with elevated incidence in higher-mileage vehicles. Renault technical bulletins indicate this is a common cause for boost-related service visits, while adherence to the correct oil specification is paramount for long-term turbo health. Neglecting maintenance intervals significantly increases the risk of costly turbo repairs.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The H4B 408 is generally robust, with a durable timing chain. Its main long-term concern is the turbocharger wastegate, which can develop a rattle or fail. Reliability is heavily dependent on strict maintenance, particularly using the correct RN0700 5W-40 oil and addressing any boost-related symptoms promptly.
The most frequent issues are turbocharger wastegate rattle/failure and ignition coil pack failures. Other concerns include high-pressure fuel pump wear and carbon buildup on intake valves, common to many direct-injection petrol engines. These are documented in Renault service information bulletins.
The H4B 408 was primarily used in the Renault Clio IV RS (TCe 120) from 2012 to 2018. It was also used in the Renault Twingo III GT (TCe 110) from 2015 to 2018, where it was slightly detuned for that application.
Yes, ECU remapping is popular and can yield power increases to around 140-150 PS and 220-240 Nm. The engine's internals and turbo are generally capable of handling this safely. However, increased power puts more strain on the clutch, turbo, and drivetrain, potentially reducing their lifespan.
Official combined figures for the Clio IV RS TCe 120 are around 5.4 L/100km (52 mpg UK). Real-world consumption typically ranges from 6.5 L/100km (43 mpg UK) in mixed driving to 8.0 L/100km (35 mpg UK) in heavy city traffic. Highway driving can achieve under 5.0 L/100km (56 mpg UK).
Yes. The H4B 408 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (though rare), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage requiring a full rebuild or replacement.
Renault mandates the use of RN0700 5W-40 specification oil. High-quality ACEA A3/B4 5W-40 oils are also suitable alternatives. Using the correct oil is critical for protecting the turbocharger and ensuring proper engine lubrication.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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