Engine Code

VOLVO B-4204-T7 engine (2004–2007) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volvo B 4204 T7 is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2007. 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 162 kW (220 PS), offering high performance for Volvo's compact models.

Fitted primarily to the Volvo S40 and V50 (P1 platform), the B 4204 T7 was engineered for sporty, responsive 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 4 standards applicable for its production period.

One documented service consideration is the potential for premature failure of the turbocharger’s electronic wastegate actuator, particularly after exposure to moisture. This issue, noted in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑05‑08, can lead to boost control faults 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.

Volvo Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2004–2007 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval Records).

B-4204-T7 Technical Specifications

The Volvo B 4204 T7 is a 1,984 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2004-2007). It combines a lightweight aluminium block with a DOHC valvetrain, twin-scroll turbocharging, and Bosch ME7.0 electronic fuel injection to deliver responsive, high-performance power. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions regulations, it balances sporty character with modern emissions control.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,984 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke86.0 mm × 86.0 mm
Power output162 kW (220 PS) @ 5,000 rpm
Torque320 Nm @ 2,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch ME7.0 electronic fuel injection
Emissions standardEuro 4
Compression ratio9.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerTwin-scroll turbo (Mitsubishi TD04L-14T)
Timing systemBelt‑driven camshafts
Oil typeSAE 0W‑40 (Synthetic)
Dry weightNot specified in available OEM docs
Practical Implications

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 to protect the turbocharger and internals. The electronic wastegate actuator is sensitive to moisture ingress; ensure engine bay seals are intact. The Bosch ME7.0 system is generally reliable but requires precise sensor inputs.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires SAE 0W-40 full synthetic oil (Volvo Workshop Manual 2005). This specification is critical for protecting the high-performance 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 B4204T7).

Primary Sources

Volvo Workshop Manual (2005 Edition)

Volvo EPC Archive Documentation (VEP-B4204-001)

Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB-05-08

Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) Type Approval Records

B-4204-T7 Compatible Models

The Volvo B 4204 T7 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.

Make:
Volvo
Years:
2004–2007
Models:
S40
Variants:
T5 (badged), R-Design
View Source
Volvo EPC Archive Doc. VEP-S40-001
Make:
Volvo
Years:
2004–2007
Models:
V50
Variants:
T5 (badged), R-Design
View Source
Volvo EPC Archive Doc. VEP-V50-001
Identification Guidance

The engine code "B4204T7" 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 high-performance 2.0L 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 lower-output B4204T5 is by the engine code stamping and specific ECU calibration.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Volvo Workshop Manual 2005

Location:

Stamped on front face of engine block, near timing belt cover (Volvo Workshop Manual 2005).

Visual Cues:

  • Aluminium block and head, transverse mounting, twin-scroll turbocharger, Bosch ME7.0 ECU.
  • Distinct from B4204T5 by engine code and higher-output calibration; often found in R-Design trim.
Maintenance Advisory

Turbo:

Inspect electronic wastegate actuator for moisture damage or sticking per TSB-05-08.

Evidence:

Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB-05-08

Timing Belt:

Replace timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys as a set every 100,000 km to prevent catastrophic failure.

Common Reliability Issues - VOLVO B-4204-T7

The B 4204 T7's primary long-term concern is failure of the turbocharger's electronic wastegate actuator, particularly after exposure to road spray or moisture. Volvo TSB-05-08 documented this as a cause of boost control faults leading to limp-home mode. Consistent operation and inspection of engine bay seals are critical for preventing this costly electronic failure.

Turbocharger wastegate actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, engine entering limp-home mode, illuminated check engine light (P0299, P0234 codes).
Cause: Moisture ingress or internal wear in the electronic wastegate actuator, causing it to stick or fail to respond to ECU commands.
Fix: Replace turbocharger wastegate actuator assembly with updated, sealed unit per TSB-05-08. Inspect and repair engine bay seals to prevent recurrence.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine will not start, sudden loss of power while driving, potential for severe internal damage.
Cause: Failure to replace the timing belt at recommended intervals (100,000 km), leading to belt breakage.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys as a complete set at recommended intervals. If failure occurs, a full engine inspection for valve/piston damage is required.
PCV system clogging
Symptoms: Whistling noise from engine, oil leaks from seals, excessive oil consumption, rough idle.
Cause: Clogging of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, leading to excessive crankcase pressure which forces oil past seals.
Fix: Clean or replace the entire PCV system, including hoses and oil trap. This is a common maintenance item for high-mileage B4/B5 engines.
Oil leaks (turbocharger seals/crankshaft seals)
Symptoms: Oil drips from turbocharger or front/rear of engine, blue smoke from exhaust (if turbo seals).
Cause: Deterioration of turbocharger shaft seals or crankshaft front/rear seals due to age, heat, and pressure cycling.
Fix: Replace leaking seals. For turbo seals, replacement often requires removing the turbocharger. Ensure crankcase ventilation system is functioning correctly.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2004-2008) and workshop manuals (2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VOLVO B-4204-T7

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-4204-T7.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

About EngineCode.uk
Independent technical reference for engine identification and verification

Platform Overview

Independent Technical Reference

EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLVO or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.

Sourcing Policy

Strict Sourcing Protocol

Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.

No Unverified Sources

No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.

Transparency in Gaps

If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.

Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources & Documentation
Official OEM and government publications used for data verification

Primary Sources

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.

Official Documentation

Regulatory Compliance

Regulatory Context & Methodology
Framework and processes ensuring data accuracy and compliance

Regulatory Context

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

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

Methodology

Data Compilation

All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.

Corrections & Submissions

To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk

Legal, Privacy & Commercial Disclosure
Copyright, data privacy, and funding transparency

Copyright & Legal

Fair Dealing Use

All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.

Copyright Concerns

For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk

Data Privacy

GDPR Compliance

EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.

Data Requests

For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk

Trademarks

Trademark Notice

All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.

Commercial Disclosure

No Paid Endorsements

This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.

Funding Model

Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.

Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLVO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.