The Volvo B 5244 S is a 2,435 cc, inline‑five naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1992 and 1998. It features an aluminium block and head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and multi-point fuel injection. In standard form, it delivered 103 kW (140 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, providing smooth, linear power delivery characteristic of Volvo's five-cylinder engines.
Fitted to models such as the 850 and 960 during this period, the B 5244 S was engineered for refined, comfortable cruising with an emphasis on reliability and low maintenance. Emissions compliance was met through precise fuel injection and catalytic aftertreatment, allowing compliance with Euro 1 standards.
One documented reliability concern is premature failure of the oil trap (PCV) system, which can lead to oil leaks and sludge buildup. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Service Bulletin SB‑94‑15, is often linked to infrequent oil changes or use of incorrect viscosity. In 1996, Volvo introduced a revised oil trap design with improved flow characteristics.
Production years 1992–1998 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/VOL/B5244S).
The Volvo B 5244 S is a 2,435 cc inline‑five naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for premium mid-size models (1992-1998). It combines an aluminium block with DOHC and multi-point injection to deliver smooth, dependable performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritizes refinement and everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,435 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 5,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch LH-Jetronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (Volvo VCC 95200378) | |
| Dry weight | 170 kg |
The inline-five design provides smooth, vibration-free power ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent oil trap clogging and sludge buildup. Volvo VCC 95200378 (10W-30) oil is critical due to its specific formulation protecting the PCV system. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce carbon buildup. The timing belt must be replaced per Volvo’s 5-year/100,000 km schedule. Ignoring SB-94-15 for oil trap replacement can lead to severe engine damage.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo VCC 95200378 (10W-30) specification (Volvo Workshop Manual 1995). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1992–1998 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/VOL/B5244S).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Figures represent engine output as installed in vehicle (Volvo Factory Brochure 1994).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1995 Edition)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B5244
Volvo Service Bulletin SB-94-15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/VOL/B5244S)
The Volvo B 5244 S was used across Volvo's P80 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor variations in intake manifolds 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 1995). The code will read "B5244S". Visual identification: Aluminium block, multi-point fuel injectors on the intake manifold, distributorless ignition with coil packs mounted on the valve cover. Critical differentiation from the B5234: The B5244 has a 2.4L displacement (vs. 2.3L) and different bore/stroke dimensions. The "S" suffix denotes the specific naturally aspirated variant.
The B 5244 S's primary reliability risk is oil trap (PCV) system failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Volvo internal service data from 1994 indicated frequent need for oil trap 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 PCV and timing system issues critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1992-1998) and Volvo Owners Club failure surveys (1998-2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5244-S.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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