The Volvo B 4204 T29 is a 1,999 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2010. It features an aluminium block and head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a twin‑scroll turbocharger with Bosch ME7.0 electronic fuel injection. In standard tune for the S40/V50, it delivered approximately 125 kW (170 PS), offering a balance of performance and efficiency for Volvo's compact models.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo S40 and V50 (P1 platform), the B 4204 T29 was engineered for responsive, refined driving with strong mid-range torque. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic fuel metering, a three-way catalytic converter, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 4 standards applicable for its production period.
One documented service consideration is the potential for premature failure of the electronic throttle body, particularly after 100,000 km. This issue, noted in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑08‑12, can lead to erratic idle, hesitation, and limp-home mode. The engine was part of Volvo's modular "B4" family, sharing core architecture with other 2.0L and 2.4L variants.
Production years 2007–2010 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval Records).
The Volvo B 4204 T29 is a 1,999 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2007-2010). It combines a lightweight aluminium block with a DOHC valvetrain, turbocharging, and Bosch ME7.0 electronic fuel injection to deliver responsive, efficient power. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions regulations, it balances everyday drivability with modern emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,999 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch ME7.0 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbo (Mitsubishi TD04L-14T) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 0W‑40 (Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The DOHC turbo design offers strong, flat torque but requires strict adherence to timing belt replacement intervals (every 100,000 km). The aluminium construction is lightweight but sensitive to overheating. Regular oil changes (every 10,000 km) with full synthetic 0W-40 are critical. The electronic throttle body is a known failure point after 100,000 km (TSB-08-12); symptoms include erratic idle. The Bosch ME7.0 system is generally reliable but requires precise sensor inputs.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 0W-40 full synthetic oil (Volvo Workshop Manual 2008). This specification is critical for protecting the turbocharged engine.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 4 standards for all production years (Swedish Transport Agency).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net horsepower standards (Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B4204T29).
Volvo Workshop Manual (2008 Edition)
Volvo EPC Archive Documentation (VEP-B4204-001)
Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB-08-12
Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) Type Approval Records
The Volvo B 4204 T29 was used across Volvo's S40/V50 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine was part of the modular B4/B5 family and shared many components with the B5244T7 2.4L variant. 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 "B4204T29" 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 '6' for 2.0L turbo engines in this platform. Visually, it is identified by its transverse mounting, aluminium construction, prominent twin-scroll turbocharger, and the Bosch ME7.0 ECU. Differentiation from the higher-output B4204T7 is by the engine code stamping and specific ECU calibration.
The B 4204 T29's primary long-term concern is failure of the electronic throttle body, typically occurring after 100,000 km. Volvo TSB-08-12 documented this as a cause of erratic idle, hesitation, and limp-home mode. Consistent operation and prompt replacement of the throttle body when symptoms appear are critical for preventing drivability issues.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2007-2011) and workshop manuals (2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-4204-T29.
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
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VCA Certification Portal
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