The Volvo B 4184 SM is a 1,783 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1996. It featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with an aluminum cylinder head, representing Volvo's modern 16-valve architecture. Output ranged from 90 kW (122 PS) to 92 kW (125 PS), with torque figures around 160–162 Nm, providing responsive and efficient performance for compact models.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo 440/460, the B 4184 SM was engineered for agile, economical driving in urban and highway conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through multi-point fuel injection and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 1 standards for its production period. Its design prioritized rev-happy performance and refinement over low-end torque.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, which can lead to reduced performance and misfires. This issue, referenced in Volvo Service Bulletin #4184SM-01, is often linked to lubrication quality and extended oil change intervals. In 1994, Volvo introduced revised camshaft materials to address this concern.
Production years 1993–1996 meet Euro 1 standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 historical annex).
The Volvo B 4184 SM is a 1,783 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1993-1996). It combines a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 16-valve design with multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive, efficient performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it relies on electronic engine management and catalytic converters for compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,783 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 90–92 kW (122–125 PS) | |
| Torque | 160–162 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic 3.2 multi-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (API SH/SG) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 130 kg |
The DOHC 16-valve design offers high-revving performance but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. SAE 5W-30 oil is critical to ensure adequate lubrication of the camshaft lobes and hydraulic lifters. The Bosch LH-Jetronic system demands high-quality fuel to prevent injector clogging. Pre-1994 engines should have camshafts inspected for wear per Volvo Service Bulletin #4184SM-01. Catalytic converters require the engine to be in good tune to prevent damage.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 specification (Volvo Service Bulletin #4184SM-01). Supersedes earlier API requirements.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1993-1996 models (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Peak power requires 95 RON fuel (Volvo Group Historical Archive).
Volvo Service Manual (1994 Edition)
Volvo Technical Bulletin TB-030 (1993)
Volvo EPC Archive Doc. VEP-1993
Volvo Service Bulletin #4184SM-01
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Volvo B 4184 SM was used across Volvo's 400 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor updates during its production run, including revised camshaft materials. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code "B4184SM" is typically stamped on a flat pad on the block, located on the front face near the timing belt cover or on the exhaust side of the cylinder head. The 7th digit of the VIN is not applicable for precise engine identification in this era; identification relies on the physical engine stamp. Key visual identifiers include the DOHC valve cover, the Bosch LH-Jetronic fuel injection system, and the transverse mounting. Differentiation from the B18U is by the DOHC head and higher power output. Differentiation from the B4164S is by the larger displacement.
The B 4184 SM's primary long-term reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, particularly in units with poor maintenance history. While formal failure statistics are unavailable for this vintage, enthusiast club data and workshop reports consistently cite cam wear, timing belt neglect, and fuel injection faults as the most common causes for repair. Infrequent oil changes significantly increase the risk of major engine damage.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1993-1996) and aggregated data from Volvo enthusiast clubs and specialist workshops. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines where available.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-4184-SM.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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