The Volvo B 4204 T23 is a 1,969 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2019. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder, delivering a blend of efficiency and responsive performance. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single-scroll turbocharger to produce 180 kW (245 PS) and 350 Nm of torque, enabling strong acceleration.
Fitted to the second-generation Volvo XC90, S90, and V90 platforms, the B 4204 T23 was engineered for drivers seeking premium refinement, confident overtaking ability, and advanced efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced engine management, a close-coupled catalytic converter, and particulate filter (OPF), meeting Euro 6 standards from launch.
One documented concern is premature failure of the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) check valve, which can lead to excessive oil consumption and turbocharger damage. This issue, referenced in Volvo Service Bulletin T23-17-09, is often linked to material degradation under sustained high-temperature operation. Volvo addressed this with a revised valve design and updated software calibration in later production.
Production years 2015–2019 meet Euro 6 emissions standards across all markets (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 as amended).
The Volvo B 4204 T23 is a 1,969 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for premium SUVs and executive sedans/wagons (2015-2019). It combines direct fuel injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong, linear power and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards from launch, it balances responsive performance with stringent emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,969 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 180 kW (245 PS) | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,500–4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Volvo VCC 95200 (SAE 0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The turbocharged direct-injection design provides strong, linear power ideal for highway merging and overtaking but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent carbon buildup and chain wear. Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-20) oil is critical for turbo and chain protection. The PCV check valve demands periodic inspection; pre-2017 units should have the valve checked or replaced if oil consumption exceeds 0.5L/1,000km per Volvo SIB T23-17-09. The OPF requires high-quality fuel to prevent premature clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-20) specification (Volvo Owner's Manual 2015). Supersedes ACEA C5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all model years (2015-2019) for all markets (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 as amended).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across markets (Volvo PT-2018).
Volvo Technical Information System (TIS): Workshop Manuals XC90/S90/V90
Volvo Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) Documentation
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 as amended
Volvo Service Bulletin T23-17-09
The Volvo B 4204 T23 was used across Volvo's SPA platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU tuning for different markets, but no major platform-specific adaptations that affect core compatibility. All variants share the same block, head, and mounting points. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front of the engine block, near the timing cover (Volvo Workshop Manual). The code will read "B4204T23". Visually, it is an aluminum block engine with a plastic cam cover and a turbocharger mounted at the front of the engine. It is distinct from the larger B5254 engines by its smaller displacement and specific casting marks. Service parts for the B 4204 T23 are generally compatible across all XC90/S90/V90 applications from 2015-2019, but ECU software and emissions components may vary by market.
The B 4204 T23's primary reliability risk is PCV check valve failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or pre-2017 examples. Volvo internal service data indicated this was a leading cause of oil-related complaints for early production units, while direct injection systems are susceptible to intake valve carbon buildup over time. Strict adherence to oil quality and change intervals is critical for longevity.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2015-2019) and aggregated workshop repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-4204-T23.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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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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