The Volvo B 4204 T5 is a 1,969 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features an aluminium block and head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and direct fuel injection. In standard form, it delivered 177 kW (240 PS) and 350 Nm of torque, providing strong performance through turbocharging and advanced engine management.
Fitted to models such as the S60, V60, XC60, and V40 during this period, the B 4204 T5 was engineered for responsive, efficient performance suitable for premium compact and mid-size vehicles. Emissions compliance was met through direct injection, turbocharging, and catalytic aftertreatment, allowing compliance with Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards.
One documented reliability concern is premature failure of the timing chain tensioner, which can lead to chain rattle and potential failure. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Service Bulletin SB‑13‑028, is often linked to material fatigue under high thermal loads. In 2015, Volvo introduced a revised tensioner design with improved durability.
Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/VOL/B4204T5).
The Volvo B 4204 T5 is a 1,969 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for premium compact and mid-size models (2010-2018). It combines an aluminium block with DOHC and direct injection to deliver responsive, efficient performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances high specific output with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,969 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 177 kW (240 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,500–4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Volvo VEP system) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2010–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 0W-20 (Volvo VCC RBS0-2AE02) | |
| Dry weight | 130 kg |
The turbocharged direct-injection design provides strong low-end torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent carbon buildup and turbo degradation. Volvo VCC RBS0-2AE02 (0W-20) oil is critical due to its low-viscosity formulation protecting the turbo bearings and timing chain tensioner. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce turbo heat soak. The timing chain and tensioner must be inspected per Volvo’s condition-based service schedule. Ignoring SB-13-028 for tensioner replacement can lead to catastrophic chain failure.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo VCC RBS0-2AE02 (0W-20) specification (Volvo Workshop Manual 2014). Supersedes ACEA C5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2010–2014 models; Euro 6 applies to 2015–2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/VOL/B4204T5).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Figures represent engine output as installed in vehicle (Volvo Factory Brochure 2012).
Volvo Workshop Manual (2014 Edition)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B4204
Volvo Service Bulletin SB-13-028
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/VOL/B4204T5)
The Volvo B 4204 T5 was used across Volvo's SPA and V40 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor variations in turbo routing and engine mounts between sedan and SUV body styles. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing cover (Volvo Workshop Manual 2014). The code will read "B4204T5". Visual identification: Aluminium block, direct injection fuel rail on the intake manifold, turbocharger mounted at the front of the engine. Critical differentiation from the B4154T5: The B4204 has a 2.0L displacement (vs. 1.5L) and different bore/stroke dimensions. The "T5" suffix denotes the high-output turbocharged variant.
The B 4204 T5's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or heat-stressed examples. Volvo internal service data from 2013 indicated frequent need for tensioner replacement, while owner surveys highlight direct injection carbon buildup as a common cause of drivability complaints. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect oil make timing and fuel system issues critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2010-2018) and Volvo Owners Club failure surveys (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-4204-T5.
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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