The Volvo B 4204 T2 is a 1,999 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2014. It features an aluminum block and head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and direct fuel injection (Volvo VEA architecture). This unit delivered 132 kW (180 PS) and 300 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive performance and efficiency in Volvo’s compact executive models.
Fitted to models such as the S60, V60, and XC60 (Drive — E platform), the B 4204 T2 was designed for d…

Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STV/B4204/2010).
The Volvo B 4204 T2 is a 1,999 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact executive sedans, wagons, and SUVs (2010-2014). It combines direct fuel injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and efficient performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances responsive power delivery with modern fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.0 mm | |
Power output | 132 kW (180 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
Torque | 300 Nm @ 1,800–4,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV5) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven dual overhead camshafts | |
Oil type | Volvo VCC 95200377 (SAE 0W-30) | |
Dry weight | 130 kg |
The Volvo B 4204 T2 was used across Volvo's SPA/VEA platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU and emissions revisions over its lifespan, but core components remain interchangeable. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The B 4204 T2's primary reliability risk is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, as documented in Volvo TSB V-12-008. This can lead to a characteristic rattle on cold start and, if neglected, potential chain misalignment. While not typically catastrophic due to the non-interference design, it requires prompt attention. The engine's other components, including the turbocharger and direct injection system, are generally robust when maintained with the correct oil and service intervals.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical service bulletins (2010-2014) and historical workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
Yes, the B 4204 T2 is generally reliable long-term. Its main known issue is timing chain tensioner wear, which is addressed by a service bulletin. With proper maintenance using the correct oil and adherence to service intervals, this engine can provide excellent longevity and performance.
The most common issues are timing chain tensioner wear (causing a rattle), intake valve carbon buildup (causing rough idle), turbocharger wastegate rattle, and PCV/oil trap failure (leading to oil consumption). These are well-documented and generally straightforward to address.
The B 4204 T2 was used in the second-generation S60 (2010-2013), first-generation V60 (2010-2013), and first-generation XC60 (2010-2014). It was marketed as the T4 engine, offering a balance of performance and efficiency below the higher-output T5 and T6 variants.
Yes, significantly. The B4204T2 responds very well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes can reliably increase power to 220-240 PS and torque to 350+ Nm without any hardware modifications, thanks to its robust internals and conservative factory tune.
Fuel economy is good for a turbocharged 2.0L petrol engine. Expect around 8.0-9.5 L/100km (30-35 mpg UK) in mixed driving for an S60 or XC60 T4. Highway cruising can yield closer to 6.5-7.0 L/100km (40-43 mpg UK). Driving style and traffic conditions heavily influence consumption.
No. The B 4204 T2 is a non-interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump, the pistons and valves would not collide, preventing catastrophic internal damage. This is a significant design safety feature.
Volvo specifies a low-viscosity SAE 0W-30 oil meeting their VCC 95200377 specification. This is critical for the variable valve timing system's operation and overall engine efficiency. Using the correct oil is non-negotiable for optimal performance and longevity. Change oil every 15,000 km or annually.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VOLVO Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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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