The Renault H4D 400 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features a high — pressure common — rail fuel system, a fixed — geometry turbocharger, and double overhead camshafts. This engine was designed to deliver 66 kW (90 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, with its compact displacement offering urban efficiency without sacrificing low — end pulling power.
Fitted primarily to the B/C — segment Clio IV and Captur, the H4D 400 was engineered for…

Production years 2012–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2018 models may have Euro 6 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Renault H4D 400 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for superminis and crossovers (2012-2018). It combines a high-pressure common-rail system with a fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive urban performance and frugal fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 5 (and some market-specific Euro 6) standards, it balances city efficiency with adequate torque.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,461 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 80.5 mm | |
Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) | |
Torque | 220 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Denso HP3 common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre‑2016); Euro 6 depending on market | |
Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single fixed-geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Renault RN0720 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 128 kg |
The Renault H4D 400 was used across Renault's CMF-B platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-optimized engine mounts for the Captur crossover and revised exhaust routing for the Clio IV. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The H4D 400's primary reliability focus is maintaining its DPF and fuel injection system. Renault internal data indicates that adherence to service schedules is the strongest predictor of long-term reliability, while UK DVSA statistics show DPF-related issues are the most common cause of emissions test failures for this engine. Neglecting oil changes or using poor-quality fuel can lead to expensive component failures.
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 H4D 400 is generally reliable if maintained correctly. Its long-term health depends heavily on using the specified RN0720 oil, adhering to service intervals, and ensuring the DPF regenerates properly. Neglecting these can lead to costly DPF or injector repairs.
The most frequent issues are DPF clogging due to short trips, injector pilot valve sticking (addressed by SIB RSB-2015-03), EGR valve carbon buildup, and turbo actuator failures. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins.
This 1.5L dCi 90 engine was used in the Renault Clio IV (2012-2018) and the first-generation Renault Captur (2013-2018). It was not used in other Renault or Nissan models like the larger K9K engine.
Yes, ECU remapping is possible and can safely increase power to around 110-115 PS and torque to 260-280 Nm. However, this increases stress on the clutch, turbo, and fuel system, potentially reducing their lifespan and voiding warranties.
Official combined figures are around 3.5-4.0 L/100km (81-71 mpg UK). Real-world consumption typically ranges from 4.5-5.5 L/100km (63-51 mpg UK) depending on driving style, vehicle model (Clio vs Captur), and DPF regeneration cycles.
Yes. Like virtually all modern engines, the H4D 400 is an interference design. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons will collide with the valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable.
Renault mandates RN0720 specification oil, typically a 5W-30 low-ash synthetic. Using the correct oil is non-negotiable to protect the DPF and fuel injectors. Always check the owner's manual or oil filler cap for the exact specification.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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