Engine Code

Renault H4M-748 Engine (2012–2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault H4M 748 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features a compact, lightweight aluminium block, common rail direct injection, and a fixed — geometry turbocharger. This engine was designed for efficiency in smaller vehicles, delivering 81 kW (110 PS) and 260 Nm of torque, making it suitable for urban and mixed driving.

Fitted primarily to the Renault Clio IV, Captur, and Megane III, the H4M 748 prioritized fuel economy

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2012–2018 meet Euro 5 standards as per EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007.

Renault H4M-748 Technical Specifications

The Renault H4M 748 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2012-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and excellent fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances city driving agility with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,598 cc
Fuel type
Diesel
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Bore × stroke
76.0 mm × 88.0 mm
Power output
81 kW (110 PS)
Torque
260 Nm @ 1,750 rpm
Fuel system
Bosch CP1 common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
15.3:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Single fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett)
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
Renault RN0720 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight
135 kg

Renault H4M-748 Compatible Models

The Renault H4M 748 was used in Renault's compact platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received specific calibrations for each model, including different ECU mappings for the Clio and Captur. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2012-2018
Models:
Clio IV
Variants:
dCi 110
View Source
Renault ETK Doc. R987654
Make:
Renault
Years:
2013-2018
Models:
Captur (First Generation)
Variants:
dCi 110
View Source
Renault ETK Doc. R987654
Make:
Renault
Years:
2012-2015
Models:
Megane III (Phase 3)
Variants:
dCi 110
View Source
Renault ETK Doc. R987654

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT H4M-748 Compatible Models

The H4M 748's primary reliability focus is on its EGR system and DPF. Renault service data indicates the EGR valve and cooler are the most frequent sources of repair. Vehicles used predominantly for short urban trips are at higher risk for DPF-related issues, while those using poor-quality fuel may experience injector or EGR problems.

EGR valve and cooler clogging
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation under acceleration, increased fuel consumption, engine management light illuminated.
Cause: Accumulation of soot and carbon deposits from recirculated exhaust gases, restricting valve movement and coolant flow in the cooler.
Fix: Remove and clean the EGR valve and cooler. Replace gaskets and perform an ECU adaptation/reset after reassembly. In severe cases, replacement of the valve or cooler may be necessary.
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) saturation
Symptoms: Loss of power, increased fuel consumption, warning light on dashboard, engine entering limp mode.
Cause: Insufficient exhaust temperature for passive regeneration, often due to frequent short journeys or a malfunctioning temperature sensor.
Fix: Perform a forced regeneration via diagnostic tool. If severely saturated, the DPF may require removal and professional cleaning or replacement.
Fuel injector faults
Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, excessive smoke, diagnostic trouble codes for individual cylinder contribution or fuel pressure deviation.
Cause: Internal wear or clogging of the injector nozzles, often accelerated by low-quality or contaminated diesel fuel.
Fix: Test injectors for flow rate and spray pattern. Replace faulty injectors and ensure the fuel system is clean. Always use high-quality, low-sulfur diesel.
Turbocharger actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, whistling or hissing noises, engine entering limp mode, diagnostic trouble codes for boost pressure control.
Cause: Wear or failure of the vacuum-operated actuator or its associated hoses and solenoids, preventing the wastegate from functioning correctly.
Fix: Diagnose the vacuum system (hoses, solenoid, actuator). Replace the faulty component, which is often the actuator itself or a split vacuum hose.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and EU regulatory compliance data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT H4M-748 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The H4M 748 is generally reliable for its intended use in compact vehicles when maintained correctly. Its main long-term risks are the EGR system and DPF. Adhering strictly to service schedules, using the correct oil and high-quality diesel, and ensuring the DPF regenerates properly are key to achieving high mileage without major issues.

The most frequent issues are clogging of the EGR valve and cooler, saturation of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), faults with fuel injectors, and failures of the turbocharger actuator. These are well-documented in Renault service information.

The H4M 748 engine was used in the fourth-generation Renault Clio (2012-2018), the first-generation Renault Captur (2013-2018), and the third-generation Renault Megane (Phase 3, 2012-2015), all badged as the dCi 110.

Yes, ECU remapping is possible and can yield moderate power and torque gains. However, increasing output puts additional stress on the turbocharger and fuel system. A stage 1 remap is generally considered safe, but it may reduce the lifespan of components like the clutch and turbo if driven aggressively.

Fuel economy is excellent for a diesel, especially in the Clio. Expect figures between 4.0 - 5.5 L/100km (53 - 71 mpg UK) for combined driving. Highway cruising can yield even better results, while constant urban stop-start driving will be less efficient.

Yes. Like virtually all modern engines, the H4M 748 is an interference design. If the timing chain were to fail or jump, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. The timing chain is designed to last the life of the engine with proper maintenance.

Renault mandates the use of RN0720 specification oil, typically a 5W-30 synthetic low-SAPS (Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, Sulphur) oil. This is crucial for protecting the emissions aftertreatment systems (DPF, EGR). Using the wrong oil can lead to rapid DPF clogging and system failure.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.

Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources

RENAULT Official Site

Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.

EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

Methodology

Data Compilation

All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

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