The Volvo B 5204 T2 is a 1,984 cc, inline‑five turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1994 and 1999. It features an aluminium block and head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and multi-point fuel injection. In standard form, it delivered 147 kW (200 PS) and 270 Nm of torque, providing a blend of smooth power delivery and strong performance characteristic of Volvo's five-cylinder engines.
Fitted to models such as the 850 and S70 during this period, the B 5204 T2 was engineered for refined, sporty performance suitable for premium mid-size sedans and wagons. Emissions compliance was met through precise fuel injection and catalytic aftertreatment, allowing compliance with Euro 2 standards.
One documented reliability concern is premature failure of the turbocharger oil return line, which can lead to oil leaks and potential turbo damage. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Service Bulletin SB‑96‑08, is often linked to heat degradation of the rubber hose section. In 1997, Volvo introduced a revised oil return line with improved heat shielding.
Production years 1994–1999 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/VOL/B5204T2).
The Volvo B 5204 T2 is a 1,984 cc inline‑five turbocharged petrol engine engineered for premium mid-size models (1994-1999). It combines an aluminium block with DOHC and multi-point injection to deliver smooth, responsive performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances the unique character of Volvo's five-cylinder layout with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 2,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic 4.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger (Garrett T25) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Volvo VCC 95200378) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The inline-five turbocharged design provides a unique smooth-yet-urgent power delivery ideal for highway overtaking but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo degradation. Volvo VCC 95200378 (10W-40) oil is critical due to its specific formulation protecting the turbo bearings. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce turbo heat soak. The timing belt must be replaced per Volvo’s 5-year/100,000 km schedule. Ignoring SB-96-08 for oil return line replacement can lead to turbo failure.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo VCC 95200378 (10W-40) specification (Volvo Workshop Manual 1997). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1994–1999 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/VOL/B5204T2).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Figures represent engine output as installed in vehicle (Volvo Factory Brochure 1996).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1997 Edition)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B5204
Volvo Service Bulletin SB-96-08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/VOL/B5204T2)
The Volvo B 5204 T2 was used across Volvo's P80 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor variations in turbo routing and engine mounts between sedan and wagon 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 1997). The code will read "B5204T2". Visual identification: Aluminium block, multi-point fuel injectors on the intake manifold, turbocharger mounted at the front of the engine. Critical differentiation from the B5234T3: The B5204 has a 2.0L displacement (vs. 2.3L) and different bore/stroke dimensions. The "T2" suffix denotes the specific turbocharged variant with 200 PS output.
The B 5204 T2's primary reliability risk is turbocharger oil return line failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or heat-stressed examples. Volvo internal service data from 1996 indicated frequent need for line replacement, while owner surveys highlight timing belt tensioner wear as a common cause of noise complaints. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect oil make turbo and timing system issues critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1994-1999) and Volvo Owners Club failure surveys (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5204-T2.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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.
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.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
