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 a…
Production years 2012–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2018 models meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
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.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,197 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 83.8 mm | |
Power output | 88–103 kW (120–140 PS) | |
Torque | 190–240 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2015); Euro 6 (2016–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single‑scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
Oil type | Renault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 95 kg |
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.
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.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). 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 H5F 403 is generally considered reliable with proper maintenance. Its main quirk is potential intake valve carbon buildup, common to direct-injection engines. Addressing this with periodic cleaning and using quality fuel ensures longevity. Major mechanical failures like timing chain breaks are rare. Regular oil changes are crucial for turbo health.
The most frequently reported issues are carbon buildup on intake valves, turbo actuator failures, and noisy high-pressure fuel pumps. Timing chain tensioner rattle can also occur on higher-mileage examples. These are well-documented in Renault's technical service bulletins and are generally repairable without engine replacement.
The H5F 403 1.2 TCe engine was used in the Renault Clio IV (2012-2018) and the first-generation Renault Captur (2013-2018). It was offered in two power outputs: TCe 120 (88 kW) and TCe 140 (103 kW). It was not used in Dacia or Nissan models under this specific code.
Yes, the H5F 403 responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes can reliably increase power to around 160-170 PS and torque to 260-280 Nm. The turbo and internals are robust enough for these gains. More aggressive tuning requires upgraded components like an intercooler or injectors to ensure reliability.
Official combined figures range from 4.8 to 5.4 L/100km (52-48 mpg UK), depending on the model and year. Real-world consumption is typically 6.0-7.0 L/100km (47-40 mpg UK) in mixed driving. The TCe 120 is slightly more economical than the TCe 140 variant under normal driving conditions.
Yes. The H5F 403 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing severe internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is robust and designed to last the engine's lifetime with proper oil maintenance.
Renault specifies a 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting the RN0710 standard. This is critical for protecting the turbocharger and ensuring proper lubrication of the timing chain. Using the correct oil and adhering to the 15,000 km or annual service interval is vital for engine longevity.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with RENAULT or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
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.
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.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialRENAULT documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.