The Jaguar 204DTD is a 2,048 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 1984 and 1992. It features overhead camshaft (SOHC) architecture, indirect fuel injection, and a Garrett T2 turbocharger. In standard tune, it delivers 72 kW (98 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, providing robust low-end pulling power ideal for compact executive sedans and estates.
Fitted to models such as the XJ-S (XJS facelift), XJ40, and Daimler Sovereign, the 204DTD was engineered for efficient cruising and strong mid-range performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and oxidation catalyst, enabling Euro 1 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is cylinder head cracking around the exhaust ports, highlighted in Jaguar Technical Service Bulletin JTSB-05-08-04. This issue arises from thermal stress in early castings and inadequate coolant flow design. In 1987, Jaguar introduced revised cylinder heads with improved water jacket geometry and upgraded metallurgy to mitigate cracking incidence.
Production years 1984–1992 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Jaguar 204DTD is a 2,048 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine developed for luxury saloons and grand tourers (1984–1992). It combines SOHC architecture with indirect injection to deliver strong low-RPM torque. Engineered to meet early European emissions standards, it balances durability with evolving regulatory requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,048 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 72 kW (98 PS) @ 4,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 2,250 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (Bosch VE rotary pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T2 turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Single-row timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Jaguar Specification WSS-M2C913-C (15W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The 204DTD's turbocharged design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving and motorway cruising but requires consistent use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 to prevent fuel pump and injector wear. Jaguar WSS-M2C913-C (15W-40) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and compatibility with high-compression diesel operation. Cylinder head inspection per JTSB-05-08-04 is recommended if overheating or coolant loss occurs. The front-mounted timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected for tensioner wear during major services. Post-1987 models benefit from revised head castings, reducing thermal stress-related cracking.
Oil Specs: Requires Jaguar WSS-M2C913-C (15W-40) specification (Jaguar SIB JTSB-11-20-03). Supersedes ACEA B1.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1984–1992 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across EU markets (Jaguar TIS Doc. JT-204DTD-POWER).
Jaguar Technical Information System (TIS): Docs JT-204DTD-CONF, JT-204DTD-TURBO, JTSB-05-08-04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Jaguar 204DTD was used across Jaguar's XJS/XJ40 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared design lineage with later Daimler units. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-fuel mapping revisions in the XJ-S and enhanced NVH tuning in the Sovereign-and from 1987, updated cylinder head casting improved reliability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Jaguar TIS JT-204DTD-ID). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for diesel inline-four). Pre-1987 models use silver valve covers with '204DTD' label; post-1987 units feature revised head casting with updated serial tag. Critical differentiation from AJ6: 204DTD has unique intake manifold routing and lacks balance shaft. Service parts require model-year verification—cylinder heads before 1987 are not interchangeable with later revisions (Jaguar SIB JTSB-05-08-04).
The 204DTD's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking, with elevated incidence in vehicles with frequent short-trip usage or poor coolant maintenance. Internal Jaguar field reports from 1990 indicated a significant share of pre-1987 units required head replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows cooling system failures are common in poorly maintained examples. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel increase tappet and injector stress, making adherence to service schedules and coolant quality critical.
Analysis derived from Jaguar technical bulletins (1984–1992) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1993–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about JAGUAR 204DTD.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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JAGUAR Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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
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