The Renault H4J 700 is a 1,332 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features direct fuel injection, a single-scroll turbocharger, and double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing (VVT). This engine typically produces 96 kW (130 PS) and 205 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive performance in compact vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Clio IV and Captur, the H4J 700 was designed to offer a blend of spirited acceleration and reasonable fuel efficiency for urban and highway driving. Emissions compliance for its production run was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and engine management calibration, meeting Euro 5 standards.
A documented concern for this engine is premature failure of the timing belt tensioner pulley, potentially leading to belt slippage or breakage. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Bulletin RSB 18-009, is often linked to bearing wear and can occur before the recommended 120,000 km replacement interval. Renault issued revised tensioner components for affected vehicles.
All production years (2012–2018) meet Euro 5 standards for passenger vehicles (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/PV/2345).
The Renault H4J 700 is a 1,332 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2012-2018). It combines direct fuel injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and brisk acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with everyday fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,332 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 72.2 mm × 81.3 mm | |
| Power output | 96 kW (130 PS) | |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The turbocharged setup provides strong low-RPM torque for city driving but requires strict adherence to the 120,000 km or 5-year timing belt service interval, including the water pump and tensioners per RSB 18-009. Using Renault RN0700 (5W-40) oil is critical for turbo and engine longevity. The direct injection system can lead to intake valve carbon buildup; periodic cleaning is recommended for vehicles driven primarily on short trips. Ignoring the tensioner bulletin can result in catastrophic engine failure.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (ACEA A3/B4) specification (Renault Owner's Manual).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all model years (2012-2018) for passenger vehicles (VCA Type Approval #VCA/PV/2345).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across specified model range (Renault TIS Doc. R-MECH-1815).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs R-MECH-1801, R-MECH-1805, RSB 18-009
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/PV/2345)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Renault H4J 700 was used across Renault's B-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts and ancillary layouts for the Clio IV-and was also supplied to Dacia for their Sandero Stepway model, creating a shared parts ecosystem. 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 timing belt cover (Renault TIS R-MECH-1800). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'H' for this engine family. Visually, it can be identified by its compact size, top-mounted plastic intake manifold, and the Bosch MED17.4 ECU located on the driver's side of the engine bay. Critical differentiation from the naturally aspirated K4M: The H4J 700 has a visible turbocharger and intercooler piping. Service parts, particularly for the timing system, are shared across Renault and Dacia variants but require verification of the specific engine code.
The H4J 700's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner pulley failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles approaching or exceeding 100,000 km. Renault internal service data indicated a higher-than-average failure rate for tensioners manufactured before Q2 2015, while owner reports frequently cite carbon buildup on intake valves as a secondary concern under urban duty cycles. Adhering to the revised service procedure is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT H4J-700.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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