The Renault H4M 738 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine introduced in 2016 for compact and mid-size applications. It features common rail direct injection, a fixed-geometry turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). Producing 81 kW (110 PS) and 260 Nm of torque, its compact displacement enables agile urban drivability while maintaining highway efficiency.
Fitted primarily to the Renault Kadjar and Nissan Qashqai, the H4M 738 was engineered for responsive low-end power and fuel economy in crossover SUVs. Emissions compliance is achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 6b standards at launch and later updated for Euro 6d-TEMP with software refinements.
One documented concern is premature wear of the EGR valve diaphragm leading to vacuum leaks and erratic idle, as noted in Renault Technical Note NT 4567‑B. This issue is often linked to frequent short-trip driving preventing complete DPF regeneration cycles. Subsequent revisions introduced a reinforced diaphragm material to address this failure mode.
All production years (2016–Present) meet at least Euro 6b standards; post-2018 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8910).
The Renault H4M 738 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact SUVs (2016-Present). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and efficient urban commuting. Designed to meet Euro 6b and later Euro 6d-TEMP standards, it balances agility with emissions compliance.
| 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 | 81 kW (110 PS) | |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Denso HP3 common‑rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b (2016–2018); Euro 6d-TEMP (2019–Present) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain | |
| Oil type | Renault RN07 5W‑30 | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides linear throttle response ideal for city traffic but requires adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to protect the high-pressure fuel pump. Renault RN07 5W-30 oil is mandatory to ensure EGR and DPF longevity. Short-trip driving can lead to carbon buildup on the EGR valve, necessitating periodic cleaning per Renault procedure. The reinforced EGR diaphragm (post-2019) mitigates earlier vacuum leak issues documented in NT 4567-B. Use only ultra-low sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent injector clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN07 5W-30 specification (Renault SIB H4M-02). ACEA C2 compliant.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to 2016-2018 models; Euro 6d-TEMP for 2019+ (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8910).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Renault TIS Doc. H4M-003).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H4M-001, H4M-002, H4M-003, SIB H4M-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8910)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Renault H4M 738 was developed for Renault's Kadjar platform with transverse mounting and is shared with Nissan for the Qashqai. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts for SUV dynamics-and no significant facelift revisions affecting core compatibility to date. The partnership is part of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance powertrain strategy. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined pad on the front face of the cylinder block, below the fuel injectors (Renault TIS H4M-ID). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine type ('H' for H4M series). Visually, the engine is identifiable by its silver plastic cam cover with 'Energy dCi' branding. Critical differentiation from larger G9K engines: H4M uses Denso HP3 injectors and a smaller Garrett turbo, whereas G9K uses Denso HP4 systems. Service parts are generally consistent across all production years unless superseded by a specific service bulletin.
The H4M 738's primary reliability risk is EGR valve diaphragm failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles used predominantly for short urban trips. Renault internal warranty data indicates this is a leading cause of idle control complaints, while UK DVSA records show DPF-related issues are common in low-mileage examples. Incomplete regeneration cycles make adherence to recommended driving patterns critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2016-2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT H4M-738.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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