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 res…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The H4M 738 is generally dependable for daily driving, with its main vulnerability being the early-design EGR valve diaphragm prone to failure under short-trip conditions. Post-2019 models with the revised valve are more robust. Consistent use of RN07 oil and allowing the engine to reach operating temperature regularly significantly enhances longevity.
The most frequent issues are EGR valve diaphragm failure causing rough idle, DPF regeneration faults due to insufficient driving cycles, high-pressure fuel pump wear from poor maintenance, and turbo actuator sticking. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins and relate to emissions system complexity.
The H4M 738 is primarily found in the Renault Kadjar crossover SUV from 2016 onwards, badged as the dCi 110. It is also used in the Nissan Qashqai II (J11), where it is designated as the dCi 115, reflecting a minor ECU tune difference within the Renault-Nissan alliance.
Yes, ECU remapping is possible and can yield modest gains of 15-20 kW and 40-50 Nm. However, as a small-displacement engine, pushing beyond stock outputs can accelerate wear on the turbo and fuel system. Any tuning should be approached cautiously and paired with regular maintenance checks.
Official combined figures for the Renault Kadjar are around 4.5-5.0 L/100km (56-63 mpg UK). Real-world economy varies with load and driving style. Unladen highway driving can achieve ~4.2 L/100km (67 mpg UK), while urban driving may see 6.0 L/100km (47 mpg UK) or higher, especially if DPF regenerations are frequent.
Yes. The H4M 738 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump timing, the pistons would collide with the open valves, resulting in catastrophic internal engine damage requiring a full rebuild or replacement.
Renault mandates the use of RN07 specification 5W-30 synthetic oil. This low-SAPS (Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, Sulphur) oil is essential for protecting the DPF and EGR systems. Using non-compliant oil will void the warranty and damage emissions components.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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