The Volvo B 4194 T is a 1,948 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2004. It features an aluminium block and head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a Garrett T25 turbocharger with Bosch Motronic 4.4 electronic fuel injection. In standard tune for the S40/V40, it delivered approximately 118 kW (160 PS), offering spirited performance for Volvo's compact models.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo S40 and V40 (P1 platform), the B 4194 T was engineered for responsive, sporty driving while maintaining everyday refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic fuel metering, a three-way catalytic converter, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 3 standards applicable for its production period.
One documented service consideration is the potential for premature turbocharger bearing failure, particularly when the engine is shut down while hot without a cooldown period. This issue, noted in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑01‑03, is often linked to oil coking in the turbocharger center section. The engine was part of Volvo's modular "B4" family, sharing core architecture with other 1.8L and 2.0L variants.
Production years 1998–2004 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval Records).
The Volvo B 4194 T is a 1,948 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1998-2004). It combines a lightweight aluminium block with a DOHC valvetrain, turbocharging, and Bosch Motronic 4.4 electronic fuel injection to deliver responsive, efficient power. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions regulations, it balances sporty performance with modern emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,948 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 118 kW (160 PS) @ 5,100 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 4.4 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T25 (fixed geometry) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The DOHC turbo design offers strong low-end torque but requires strict adherence to timing belt replacement intervals (every 80,000-100,000 km). The aluminium construction is lightweight but sensitive to overheating. Regular oil changes (every 10,000 km) with full synthetic 10W-40 are critical to protect the turbocharger. Allow the engine to idle for 30-60 seconds after hard driving to cool the turbo, as per TSB-01-03. The Bosch Motronic system is generally reliable but sensitive to poor electrical grounds.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 synthetic oil (Volvo Workshop Manual 2000). This specification is critical for protecting the turbocharger bearings.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards for all production years (Swedish Transport Agency).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net horsepower standards (Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B4194T).
Volvo Workshop Manual (2000 Edition)
Volvo EPC Archive Documentation (VEP-B4194-001)
Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB-01-03
Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) Type Approval Records
The Volvo B 4194 T was used across Volvo's S40/V40 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine was part of the modular B4 family and shared many components with the B4204S/S2 2.0L variants. Minor ECU and turbo revisions were implemented during its production run, but no major facelifts created significant interchange limits for core mechanical parts. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code "B4194T" is typically stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the engine block, near the timing belt cover. The 8th digit of the VIN is often '5' for turbocharged 1.9L engines in this platform. Visually, it is identified by its transverse mounting, aluminium construction, prominent Garrett T25 turbocharger on the exhaust manifold, and the Bosch Motronic ECU. Differentiation from the naturally aspirated B4194S is by the turbocharger and engine code stamping.
The B 4194 T's primary long-term concern is premature turbocharger bearing failure, particularly when the engine is frequently shut down while hot without allowing for cooldown. Volvo TSB-01-03 documented this as a cause of oil coking in the turbo center section, leading to seized bearings. Consistent operation and strict adherence to the recommended cooldown procedure are critical for preventing costly turbo replacement.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1998-2005) and workshop manuals (2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-4194-T.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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