Renault H4D-400 Engine (2012–2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Renault H4D 400 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features a high — pressure common — rail fuel system, a fixed — geometry turbocharger, and double overhead camshafts. This engine was designed to deliver 66 kW (90 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, with its compact displacement offering urban efficiency without sacrificing low — end pulling power.

Fitted primarily to the B/C — segment Clio IV and Captur, the H4D 400 was engineered for…

Renault Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2012–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2018 models may have Euro 6 compliance depending on market .

Renault H4D-400 Technical Specifications

The Renault H4D 400 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for superminis and crossovers (2012-2018). It combines a high-pressure common-rail system with a fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive urban performance and frugal fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 5 (and some market-specific Euro 6) standards, it balances city efficiency with adequate torque.

ParameterValueSource
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
66 kW (90 PS)
Torque
220 Nm @ 1,750 rpm
Fuel system
Denso HP3 common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 5 (pre‑2016); Euro 6 depending on market
Compression ratio
15.8:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Single fixed-geometry turbo (Honeywell)
Timing system
Chain-driven
Oil type
Renault RN0720 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight
128 kg

Renault H4D-400 Compatible Models

The Renault H4D 400 was used across Renault's CMF-B platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-optimized engine mounts for the Captur crossover and revised exhaust routing for the Clio IV. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Renault
Years:
2012-2018
Models:
Clio IV
Variants:
Energy dCi 90, Expression, Dynamique, GT Line
View Source
Renault Group PT-2020
Make:
Renault
Years:
2013-2018
Models:
Captur (First Generation)
Variants:
Energy dCi 90, Zen, Intens, S Edition
View Source
Renault Group PT-2020

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Common Reliability Issues - RENAULT H4D-400 Compatible Models

Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clogging
Symptoms: Reduced engine power (limp mode), increased fuel consumption, dashboard DPF warning light, frequent active regenerations.
Cause: Insufficient exhaust temperatures from frequent short trips or low-speed driving prevent passive regeneration, leading to soot accumulation.
Fix: Perform a forced regeneration via diagnostic tool; if unsuccessful, the DPF may require removal for cleaning or replacement. Review driving habits.
Injector pilot valve sticking
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation or misfire on acceleration, increased emissions, engine management light (EML) with injector-related fault codes.
Cause: Accumulation of microscopic deposits or fuel varnish on the injector's internal pilot valve, restricting its movement and affecting spray pattern.
Fix: Replace affected injectors with latest revised parts per Renault SIB RSB-2015-03. Ensure ECU software is updated to the latest calibration.
EGR valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, lack of power, increased fuel consumption, EML with EGR-related fault codes.
Cause: Accumulation of soot and carbon deposits restricting valve movement or clogging the passages, reducing exhaust gas recirculation efficiency.
Fix: Clean or replace the EGR valve assembly. Update ECU software if a relevant service bulletin exists.
Turbocharger actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, whistling or hissing noises, black smoke from exhaust, reduced performance.
Cause: Wear or failure of the vacuum diaphragm or linkage in the turbocharger's wastegate actuator, preventing proper boost control.
Fix: Replace the turbocharger actuator or the entire turbocharger assembly with latest OEM parts. Check vacuum lines for leaks or damage.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

RENAULT H4D-400 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The H4D 400 is generally reliable if maintained correctly. Its long-term health depends heavily on using the specified RN0720 oil, adhering to service intervals, and ensuring the DPF regenerates properly. Neglecting these can lead to costly DPF or injector repairs.

The most frequent issues are DPF clogging due to short trips, injector pilot valve sticking (addressed by SIB RSB-2015-03), EGR valve carbon buildup, and turbo actuator failures. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins.

This 1.5L dCi 90 engine was used in the Renault Clio IV (2012-2018) and the first-generation Renault Captur (2013-2018). It was not used in other Renault or Nissan models like the larger K9K engine.

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the H4D-400 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.

Official combined figures are around 3.5-4.0 L/100km (81-71 mpg UK). Real-world consumption typically ranges from 4.5-5.5 L/100km (63-51 mpg UK) depending on driving style, vehicle model (Clio vs Captur), and DPF regeneration cycles.

Yes. Like virtually all modern engines, the H4D 400 is an interference design. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons will collide with the valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Fortunately, the chain is very durable.

Renault mandates RN0720 specification oil, typically a 5W-30 low-ash synthetic. Using the correct oil is non-negotiable to protect the DPF and fuel injectors. Always check the owner's manual or oil filler cap for the exact specification.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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Primary Sources

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.

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