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H4M

1.6 E-Tech Plug-in Hybrid 160 (H4M, 2020-2023) engine: faults and reliability

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

With caution

It shares the multi-mode gearbox with the other E-Tech versions and the same documented fault pattern; as it also carries a higher-capacity battery and more powerful electronics, its campaign history should also be checked.[1]

Years
2020–2023
Power
160 hp
Faults that affect it
3
1 of high or critical severity
Cars that use it
2
in our database

3 sourcesHow we work

What changes in this version

Plug-in version of the same H4M block, with a more powerful electric motor (67 hp) and a 9.8 kWh lithium-ion battery (7.5 kWh usable) giving around 50 km of electric range (WLTP); it shares the same multi-mode dog-clutch gearbox. It was sold in the Captur from May 2020 to April 2023, and in the Mégane IV.[2][3]

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 severityCommonFrequency: 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 severityOccasionalFrequency: 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 severityOccasionalFrequency: 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.

Renault

Frequently asked questions

Is the H4M engine reliable?

Our verdict is “With caution”. It shares the multi-mode gearbox with the other E-Tech versions and the same documented fault pattern; as it also carries a higher-capacity battery and more powerful electronics, its campaign history should also be checked.[1]

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 Captur II (2020–2023) and Renault Mégane IV (2020–2023).[2][3]

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. 1.Fiabilité et pannes du Renault Captur IIFiches-auto.fr · Motoring press · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  2. 2.Renault Captur IIWikipedia (francés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French
  3. 3.Renault Mégane IVWikipedia (francés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in French