The Volvo B 5204 T4 is a 1,984 cc, inline‑five petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1996. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a turbocharger with Bosch LH‑Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection. In standard tune for the 850 series, it delivered approximately 147 kW (200 PS), offering a blend of smooth power and strong torque for its era.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo 850 (P80 platform) sedan and wagon, the B 5204 T4 was engineered for spirited, refined performance while maintaining everyday practicality. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic fuel metering and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 1 standards applicable for its production period.
One documented service consideration is the potential for premature failure of the turbocharger’s oil return line gasket, leading to oil leaks onto the exhaust manifold. This issue, noted in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑94‑07, can cause smoke and fire risk. The engine was part of Volvo's modular "B5" family, sharing core architecture with other 2.0L and 2.3L variants.
Production years 1993–1996 meet Euro 1 emissions standards (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval Records).
The Volvo B 5204 T4 is a 1,984 cc inline‑five petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and wagons (1993-1996). It combines a robust cast‑iron block with a DOHC valvetrain, turbocharging, and Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions regulations, it balances performance character with the emissions control technology of its time.
| 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) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 2,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T25 (fixed geometry) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (Mineral/Synthetic blend) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The DOHC turbo design offers strong, smooth power but requires strict adherence to timing belt replacement intervals (every 80,000-100,000 km). The cast-iron block is durable but heavy. Regular oil changes (every 10,000 km) with quality oil are critical. The turbocharger oil return line gasket is a known failure point (TSB-94-07); inspect for leaks during services. The Bosch LH-Jetronic system is generally reliable but sensitive to poor electrical grounds.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 oil (Volvo Workshop Manual 1995). Modern high-detergent multi-grade oils meeting API SF/CC or better are suitable.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 1 standards for all production years (Swedish Transport Agency).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net horsepower standards (Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B5204T4).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1995 Edition)
Volvo EPC Archive Documentation (VEP-B5204-001)
Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB-94-07
Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) Type Approval Records
The Volvo B 5204 T4 was used across Volvo's 850 Series platforms with transverse mounting. This engine was part of the modular B5 family and shared many components with the B5234T variants. 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 "B5204T4" 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 '5' for turbocharged 2.0L engines in this platform. Visually, it is identified by its transverse mounting, inline-five configuration, prominent Garrett T25 turbocharger, and the Bosch LH-Jetronic ECU. Differentiation from the naturally aspirated B5204S is by the turbocharger and engine code stamping.
The B 5204 T4's primary long-term concern is failure of the turbocharger’s oil return line gasket, which can lead to oil leaks onto the hot exhaust manifold, creating a smoke and fire hazard. Volvo TSB-94-07 documented this issue. Consistent operation and strict adherence to inspection schedules are critical for preventing this safety-related failure.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1993-1997) and workshop manuals (1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5204-T4.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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