Engine Code

RENAULT H5F-403 engine (2012–2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault H5F 403 is a 1,197 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features direct fuel injection, a single-scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This compact powerplant was designed to offer a blend of efficiency and responsiveness, delivering outputs between 88–103 kW (120–140 PS) and torque figures of 190–240 Nm.

Fitted primarily to the B‑segment Captur and Clio IV, the H5F 403 was engineered for urban agility and spirited driving. Its character is defined by strong low‑end torque and a linear power delivery, making it suitable for both city commutes and highway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through gasoline particulate filter (GPF) technology on later models, meeting Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards.

One documented concern involves potential carbon buildup on the intake valves, a known characteristic of direct injection engines without port injection. This issue, addressed in Renault's technical note RN‑2016‑03, can lead to rough idling or reduced performance if not managed. Renault recommends periodic inspection and cleaning as part of preventative maintenance for high‑mileage vehicles.

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2012–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2018 models meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

H5F-403 Technical Specifications

The Renault H5F 403 is a 1,197 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for subcompact SUVs and hatchbacks (2012-2018). It combines direct fuel injection with a single‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive performance and good fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances urban agility with highway capability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,197 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke78.0 mm × 83.8 mm
Power output88–103 kW (120–140 PS)
Torque190–240 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDEV5 direct injection (200 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 5 (2012–2015); Euro 6 (2016–2018)
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle‑scroll turbo (Honeywell)
Timing systemChain‑driven
Oil typeRenault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight95 kg
Practical Implications

The turbocharged inline-three provides brisk acceleration ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil change intervals to maintain turbo and chain health. Renault RN0710 (5W-40) oil is critical for its specific additive package protecting turbo bearings. Direct injection necessitates periodic intake valve cleaning to prevent carbon buildup, which can cause misfires or power loss. Vehicles equipped with a GPF (post-2016) require regular highway driving to ensure proper regeneration and prevent filter clogging. No major timing chain failures are documented, but tensioner noise can occur on high-mileage units.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0710 (5W-40) specification (Renault Owner's Manual). Meets ACEA C3 requirements.

Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2012-2015 models; Euro 6 applies to 2016-2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak output requires 95 RON fuel quality (Renault Technical Manual RTM-H5F).

Primary Sources

Renault Technical Information System: Docs RTM-H5F, RN-2015-08, RN-2016-03

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

H5F-403 Compatible Models

The Renault H5F 403 was used across Renault's B0 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-optimized engine mounts for the Captur and revised cooling for the Clio IV-and from 2016 the addition of a gasoline particulate filter for Euro 6 compliance, creating minor ECU and exhaust differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2012–2018
Models:
Clio IV
Variants:
TCe 120, TCe 140
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Make:
Renault
Years:
2013–2018
Models:
Captur I
Variants:
TCe 120, TCe 140
View Source
Renault Group PT-2018
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the thermostat housing (Renault TIS H5F-ID). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('B' for 1.2L). Pre-2016 models lack a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and have a simpler exhaust manifold. Post-2016 Euro 6 models feature a GPF integrated into the exhaust system. Critical differentiation from the naturally aspirated H5Ft: H5F 403 has a visible turbocharger and intercooler piping. ECU part numbers differ between model years and power outputs; always verify against the vehicle's specific VIN in the EPC.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Renault TIS Doc. H5F-ID

Location:

Stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, adjacent to the thermostat housing (Renault TIS H5F-ID).

Visual Cues:

  • Presence of a turbocharger and intercooler.
  • Post-2016 models have a bulkier exhaust system near the catalytic converter (GPF location).
Compatibility Notes

E C U:

ECU software and hardware are specific to model year and power output (TCe 120 vs TCe 140). Swapping requires reprogramming.

Exhaust:

Exhaust manifolds and downpipes are not interchangeable between pre-GPF (Euro 5) and post-GPF (Euro 6) models.

Evidence:

Renault EPC Ref. H5F-403-01

Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT H5F-403

The H5F 403's primary documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves, common to direct-injection engines. Renault technical notes indicate this is manageable with preventative maintenance, while owner reports suggest it is less severe than on some competitors. Vehicles with low annual mileage or predominantly short trips are most susceptible, making periodic cleaning or the use of fuel system cleaners advisable.

Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation under light throttle, occasional misfire codes, reduced fuel economy.
Cause: Lack of fuel washing over intake valves in direct-injection system, leading to accumulation of oil and combustion deposits.
Fix: Perform walnut-shell blasting or chemical cleaning of intake valves per Renault procedure RN-2016-03. Use Top Tier fuel.
Turbocharger actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, 'Check Engine' light with overboost/underboost codes, whistling noise from turbo area.
Cause: Wear or sticking in the electronic wastegate actuator, often due to heat cycling or electrical fault.
Fix: Replace the turbocharger actuator assembly with the latest OEM part; perform ECU adaptation after installation.
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) noise or failure
Symptoms: Loud ticking noise from engine bay (especially at idle), hard starting, fuel pressure-related fault codes.
Cause: Internal wear or failure of the Bosch HDEV5 high-pressure fuel pump, potentially exacerbated by low-quality fuel.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump with an OEM unit; inspect and replace fuel filter simultaneously.
Timing chain tensioner rattle
Symptoms: Distinctive metallic rattle from the front of the engine, most noticeable at cold start or low RPM.
Cause: Wear or loss of hydraulic pressure in the timing chain tensioner, allowing chain slack and contact with the cover.
Fix: Replace the timing chain tensioner. While not typically catastrophic, it should be addressed to prevent chain wear.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about RENAULT H5F-403

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT H5F-403.

Research Resources

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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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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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