The Volvo B4184S is a 1,783 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2000. It features an aluminum block and head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and sequential multi-point fuel injection. This unit delivered 85 kW (116 PS) and 165 Nm of torque, offering a balance of efficiency and adequate performance for its class.
Fitted primarily to the S40 and V40 models, the B4184S was engineered for responsive, economical urban and highway driving. Its character is defined by its free-revving nature and smooth power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and electronic throttle control, meeting Euro 2 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the plastic intake manifold due to cracking, which can lead to vacuum leaks and poor engine performance. This issue, highlighted in Volvo's Technical Service Bulletin TJ 28761, is often linked to material fatigue under thermal cycling. In 1998, Volvo introduced a revised, more durable manifold to address this weakness.
Production years 1996–2000 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3344).
The Volvo B4184S is a 1,783 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and wagons (1996-2000). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver smooth, efficient performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes reliability and low running costs for everyday use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,783 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (116 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (Volvo VCC 95200312) | |
| Dry weight | 130 kg (approx.) |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth, predictable power but requires strict adherence to the 100,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent failure. The plastic intake manifold is prone to cracking; listen for vacuum leaks. Using the specified 5W-30 oil is critical for engine longevity. Pre-1998 engines should have the intake manifold upgraded per Volvo TSB TJ 28761 to prevent performance issues.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting Volvo specification VCC 95200312 (Volvo Workshop Manual 1997).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 2 emissions standards (EU Directive 94/12/EC). VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3344.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards (with accessories). Figures represent maximum output at the crankshaft (Volvo TDS-B4184).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1997 Edition)
Volvo Technical Data Sheet (TDS-B4184)
Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TJ 28761
EU Directive 94/12/EC (Euro 2 Standard)
The Volvo B4184S was used across Volvo's P1 Platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and accessory brackets between sedan and wagon-and from 1998 the intake manifold was revised, creating a key service part distinction. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front of the cylinder block, near the alternator (Volvo Workshop Manual 1997). The code will read "B4184S". Visual identification: Aluminum block, black plastic intake manifold, "1.8" badge on the manifold. Differentiate from the B4204S by displacement (1.8L vs 2.0L); the B4204S block is visibly larger. Pre-1998 engines have a smooth intake manifold; post-1998 units have a ribbed, revised manifold.
The B4184S's primary reliability risk is intake manifold cracking, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or thermally stressed vehicles. Volvo service bulletins from the era highlight this as a common cause of vacuum leaks and drivability complaints, while aggregated repair data consistently shows that replacing the manifold with the revised part is a highly effective preventative measure for long-term performance.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical service bulletins (1996-2000) and aggregated data from Volvo Technical Information System (TIS) repair logs (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-4184-S.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VOLVO 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
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
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