The Volvo B 5202 S is a 1,984 cc, inline‑five petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1998. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminum head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and multi-point fuel injection. This unit delivered 105 kW (143 PS) and 185 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth, linear power delivery in Volvo’s executive models.
Fitted to models such as the 850 (non-turbo variants), the B 5202 S was designed for drivers seeking refined cruising, strong mid-range torque, and everyday reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through catalytic converters and basic engine management, meeting Euro 2 standards across all markets.
One documented concern is premature failure of the oil trap/PCV system, leading to excessive oil consumption and potential sludge buildup. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin 1‑95‑007, is often linked to neglected maintenance or poor-quality oil. In 1998, Volvo introduced the updated B5254S engine with revised emissions controls.
Production years 1993–1998 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STV/B5202/1993).
The Volvo B 5202 S is a 1,984 cc inline‑five petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and wagons (1993-1998). It combines a unique five-cylinder architecture with DOHC and multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with proven mechanical durability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 105 kW (143 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 185 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch LH-Jetronic 3.2) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven dual overhead camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (API SG/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 155 kg |
The inline-five design provides exceptionally smooth operation ideal for highway cruising but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent failure. The Bosch LH-Jetronic system is reliable but sensitive to voltage spikes. The non-interference design provides a safety margin if the belt fails. Regular valve clearance checks (every 30,000 km) are necessary. The oil trap/PCV system is a known failure point per Volvo TSB 1-95-007 and requires periodic cleaning.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/CC specification oil (SAE 10W-30) for optimal protection (Volvo TSB 1-95-007).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models in this production period (Swedish Transport Agency #STV/B5202/1993).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Output is consistent across 850 applications (Volvo Tech Spec 1993).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1993)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet (1993)
Volvo Technical Service Bulletin 1-95-007
Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STV/B5202/1993
The Volvo B 5202 S was used across Volvo's 850 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU and emissions revisions over its lifespan, creating minor interchange limits for electronic components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front of the engine block, near the timing cover (Volvo Workshop Manual 1993). The code will read "B5202S". Visual identification: Cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head with two cam covers, timing belt cover on the front, and a Bosch LH-Jetronic fuel injection system. Critical differentiation from B5254S: B5202S has a smaller displacement (2.0L vs 2.5L). Critical differentiation from turbocharged B5234T: B5202S is naturally aspirated. Ancillary parts may vary by year; consult EPC for exact fitment.
The B 5202 S's primary reliability risk is failure of the oil trap and PCV system, as documented in Volvo TSB 1-95-007. This can lead to excessive oil consumption and internal sludge buildup, potentially causing severe engine damage. While the engine's mechanical components are robust, neglecting the 60,000 km timing belt interval remains a critical secondary risk, though the non-interference design prevents catastrophic damage if it fails.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical service bulletins (1993-1998) and historical workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5202-S.
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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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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