The Volvo B 5244 S4 is a 2,435 cc, inline‑five petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and Bosch Motronic 4.4 electronic fuel injection. In standard tune for the S70/V70, it delivered approximately 103 kW (140 PS), providing smooth, linear power for Volvo's mid-size models.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo S70 and V70 (P80 platform), the B 5244 S4 was engineered for refined, comfortable cruising with strong low-end torque. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic fuel metering and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 3 standards applicable for its production period.
One documented service consideration is the potential for premature failure of the oil trap in the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, leading to oil leaks and excessive oil consumption. This issue, noted in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑99‑05, can cause sludge buildup and seal damage. The engine was part of Volvo's modular "B5" family, sharing core architecture with other 2.3L and 2.4L variants.
Production years 1998–2002 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval Records).
The Volvo B 5244 S4 is a 2,435 cc inline‑five petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and wagons (1998-2002). It combines a robust cast‑iron block with a DOHC valvetrain and Bosch Motronic 4.4 electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, predictable power. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions regulations, it balances everyday drivability with modern emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,435 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 5,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 4.4 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W‑30 (Synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The DOHC design offers smooth power delivery 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 full synthetic 5W-30 are critical. The PCV oil trap is a known failure point (TSB-99-05); symptoms include oil leaks and excessive consumption. The Bosch Motronic system is generally reliable but sensitive to poor electrical grounds.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 full synthetic oil (Volvo Workshop Manual 2000). This specification is critical for protecting the valvetrain and preventing sludge.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 standards for all production years (Swedish Transport Agency).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net horsepower standards (Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B5244S4).
Volvo Workshop Manual (2000 Edition)
Volvo EPC Archive Documentation (VEP-B5244-001)
Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB-99-05
Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) Type Approval Records
The Volvo B 5244 S4 was used across Volvo's S70/V70 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine was part of the modular B5 family and shared many components with the B5234 variants. Minor ECU 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 "B5244S4" 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 2.4L engines in this platform. Visually, it is identified by its transverse mounting, inline-five configuration, aluminium cylinder head, and the Bosch Motronic ECU. Differentiation from the turbocharged B5234T is by the absence of a turbocharger and the specific engine code stamping.
The B 5244 S4's primary long-term concern is failure of the oil trap in the PCV system, leading to excessive oil consumption and leaks. Volvo TSB-99-05 documented this as a cause of sludge buildup and damaged seals. Consistent operation and prompt replacement of the PCV system components are critical for preventing costly internal damage and external leaks.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1998-2003) and workshop manuals (2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5244-S4.
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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