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H4M

1.6 E-Tech Full Hybrid 140-145 (H4M, 2020+) engine: faults and reliability

Renault-Dacia E-Tech Híbrido (H4M 1.6 and HR12 1.2 Turbo, caja multimodo) version

With caution

The engine and battery have no documented internal faults, but the multi-mode gearbox shared by all E-Tech versions does have a frequent failure pattern across several models (see the gearbox fault); it is worth checking the campaign history before buying.[1][2]

Years
since 2020
Power
140–145 hp
Faults that affect it
3
1 of high or critical severity
Cars that use it
7
in our database

10 sourcesHow we work

What changes in this version

First version of the E-Tech system, available on the Clio V from January 2020: a naturally aspirated Atkinson-cycle 1.6 (91-94 hp depending on the source) combined with a 48-49 hp electric motor and a 20 hp starter-generator, with a 1.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and the multi-mode dog-clutch gearbox. In 2022 the Clio received a small power increase (+5 hp).[3][4]

Engine codes of this version: H4M.

Faults of the H4M engine

The documented engine faults that affect this version and its years, from most to least important.

  1. 1High severityFrequency: CommonTransmissionMulti-mode gearbox failure (risk of breakage)On the Clio, Captur, Arkana, Austral, Duster and Jogger with the E-Tech engine, reports describe a risk of the multi-mode gearbox breaking and being replaced. Renault has launched a campaign over a primary shaft seal fault (2020-January 2024, ~150,000 vehicles) that lets oil into the electric motor.
  2. 2Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalElectronicsHybrid system electrical fault with "DANGER" warning and car won't startSome Renault E-Techs show an "electrical problem DANGER" warning on the instrument panel and the car may not start or may lose electrical functions. Renault has launched a reprogramming campaign for vehicles built between April 2020 and April 2023 (around 154,000 vehicles).
  3. 3Medium severityFrequency: OccasionalElectronics12 V battery going flat or needing early replacementSeveral Clio, Arkana and Austral owners with the E-Tech engine document premature replacement of the 12 V auxiliary battery, in one case twice in the first year. It is not the most widespread fault of the system, but it appears repeatedly across different models.

Cars fitted with the H4M engine

Open each car to see all its faults with this engine and what to check before buying it.

Dacia

Nissan

Renault

Frequently asked questions

Is the H4M engine reliable?

Our verdict is “With caution”. The engine and battery have no documented internal faults, but the multi-mode gearbox shared by all E-Tech versions does have a frequent failure pattern across several models (see the gearbox fault); it is worth checking the campaign history before buying.[1][2]

What faults does the H4M engine have?

The documented ones that affect this version, by importance: multi-mode gearbox failure (risk of breakage) (high severity), hybrid system electrical fault with "DANGER" warning and car won't start (medium severity) and 12 V battery going flat or needing early replacement (medium severity).

Which cars use the H4M engine?

Renault Clio V (since 2020), Renault Captur II (since 2020), Renault Arkana (since 2020), Dacia Jogger (since 2023), Dacia Duster III (since 2024), Nissan Juke II (since 2022) and Renault Symbioz (since 2025).[2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10]

Are you buying a car with the H4M engine?

We will put you in touch with a partner only if you authorise it in the form.

Do you have a car with this engine? Tell us which faults you have had and at how many kilometres. Report your fault.

Sources

Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.

  1. Fiabilité et pannes de la Renault Clio 5Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  2. Fiabilité et pannes du Renault ArkanaFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  3. Renault Clio VWikipedia (francés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  4. Dacia Duster IIIWikipedia (francés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  5. Renault Captur IIWikipedia (francés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  6. Dacia JoggerWikipedia (francés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  7. Fiabilité et pannes du Dacia JoggerFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  8. Fiabilité et pannes du Dacia Duster 3Fiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  9. Nissan Juke - WikipediaWikipedia (de) · Other source · consulted 29 October 2026 · in German
  10. Renault SymbiozWikipedia (es) · Other source · consulted 30 October 2026 · in Spanish