The Volvo B5234T3 is a 2,319 cc, inline‑five turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1994 and 1998. It features an aluminum block and head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and Bosch Motronic 4.4 electronic fuel injection. This unit delivered 166 kW (225 PS) and 330 Nm of torque, offering a compelling blend of performance and refinement for its era.
Fitted primarily to the 850 and S70/V70 models, the B5234T3 was engineered for spirited, confident driving with an emphasis on mid-range responsiveness. Its character is defined by its unique five-cylinder thrum and strong turbo boost. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and electronic throttle control, meeting Euro 2 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the turbocharger's oil return line gasket, which can lead to oil leaks and potential turbo bearing damage. This issue, highlighted in Volvo's Technical Service Bulletin TJ 26789, is often linked to heat degradation of the original gasket material. In 1996, Volvo introduced a revised, high-temperature silicone gasket to address this weakness.
Production years 1994–1998 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3902).
The Volvo B5234T3 is a 2,319 cc inline‑five turbocharged petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and wagons (1994-1998). It combines DOHC architecture with electronic fuel injection and turbocharging to deliver responsive, torquey performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances sporty character with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,319 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 166 kW (225 PS) @ 5,100 rpm | |
| Torque | 330 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic 4.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T25 with wastegate | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (Volvo VCC 95200276) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg (approx.) |
The turbocharged five-cylinder design provides a unique, torquey character but requires strict adherence to the 80,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent failure. The turbocharger is sensitive to oil leaks; using the specified 10W-30 oil and changing it frequently is critical. Pre-1996 engines should have the turbo oil return line gasket upgraded per Volvo TSB TJ 26789 to prevent oil leaks.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 meeting Volvo specification VCC 95200276 (Volvo Workshop Manual 1995).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 2 emissions standards (EU Directive 94/12/EC). VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3902.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards (with accessories). Figures represent maximum output at the crankshaft (Volvo TDS-B5234).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1995 Edition)
Volvo Technical Data Sheet (TDS-B5234)
Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TJ 26789
EU Directive 94/12/EC (Euro 2 Standard)
The Volvo B5234T3 was used across Volvo's P80 Platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and accessory brackets between sedan and wagon-and from 1996 the turbo oil return gasket was revised, creating a key service part distinction. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front of the cylinder block, near the alternator (Volvo Workshop Manual 1995). The code will read "B5234T3". Visual identification: Aluminum block, red "T-5" or "R" badge on the plastic intake manifold, Garrett turbocharger on the exhaust manifold. Differentiate from the B5254T by displacement (2.3L vs 2.5L); the B5254T block is visibly larger. Pre-1996 engines have a paper gasket on the turbo oil return line; post-1996 units have a black silicone gasket.
The B5234T3's primary reliability risk is turbocharger oil return line gasket failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or thermally stressed vehicles. Volvo service bulletins from the era highlight this as a common cause of oil leaks and turbo damage, while aggregated repair data consistently shows that replacing the gasket with the revised silicone part is a highly effective preventative measure for long-term drivability.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical service bulletins (1994-1998) and aggregated data from Volvo Technical Information System (TIS) repair logs (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5234-T3.
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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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