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 drivers prioritizing fuel economy and maneuverability in city environments. Emissions compliance for Euro 5 was achieved through a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), with certain later builds meeting Euro 6 standards depending on market specifications.
One documented engineering update addressed potential injector pilot valve sticking under prolonged low-load conditions, as noted in Renault Service Bulletin RSB‑2015‑03. This was mitigated by introducing revised injector components and updated ECU calibration to optimize injection timing and rail pressure stability.
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 fixed-geometry turbo provides linear power delivery suited for city driving but requires strict 20,000 km or 12-month service intervals to maintain DPF health. Renault RN0720 (5W-30) oil is mandatory to protect the high-pressure fuel system. Frequent short trips can lead to DPF clogging; occasional highway runs are recommended for passive regeneration. The ECU update per RSB-2015-03 addresses injector stability; ensure this bulletin has been applied if experiencing rough idle or hesitation. AdBlue is not used on this engine variant.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0720 specification (Renault SIB RSB‑2015‑03). Equivalent to ACEA C2/C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2012-2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345). Some 2016-2018 models meet Euro 6 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output figures are net ratings for production vehicles (Renault Group PT‑2020).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs RTM-H4D, SIB RSB-2015-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat machined surface on the front of the cylinder block, near the alternator (Renault RTM-H4D). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine type ('H' for this family). Visually, the engine is identifiable by its black plastic cam cover with 'dCi 90' branding. Critical differentiation from the larger 1.5 dCi (K9K): The H4D 400 has a smaller turbocharger and a simpler exhaust manifold feeding into a single DOC/DPF unit, without an SCR system.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT H4D-400.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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