The Volvo B5244SG2 is a 2,435 cc, inline‑five naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2002. It featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 20-valve design with a cast iron block and aluminum head, delivering 125 kW (170 PS). Its refined valvetrain provided smooth, linear power delivery for comfortable daily driving.
Fitted to models such as the S80 and V70, the B5244SG2 was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of economy, refinement, and reliability in executive vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through Bosch Motronic 4.4 fuel injection and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 3 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft timing belt tensioner, which can lead to belt slippage or failure. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Service Bulletin 4-99128, is often linked to component fatigue and extended service intervals. In 2002, Volvo introduced the B5244SG5 with minor ECU and emissions revisions.
Production years 1999–2002 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/VOL/8602).
The Volvo B5244SG2 is a 2,435 cc inline‑five naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and wagons (1999-2002). It combines a DOHC 20-valve head with sophisticated port design to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with regulatory compliance.
| 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 | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 5,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 4.4 | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 170 kg |
The DOHC inline-five design provides exceptionally smooth operation and linear power ideal for comfortable cruising but requires strict adherence to 80,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference engine failure. SAE 5W-30 oil is recommended for its cold-start protection and high-temperature stability. The Bosch Motronic 4.4 system demands high-quality fuel to prevent injector clogging. Camshaft timing belt tensioner wear is a documented failure point; proactive replacement is advised per Volvo SIB 4-99128.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 semi-synthetic specification (Volvo Greenbook 2000). Full synthetic 5W-30 may be used.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/VOL/8602).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Volvo Greenbook 2000).
Volvo Greenbook Service Manuals (1999-2002)
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/VOL/8602)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Volvo B5244SG2 was used across Volvo's P80 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the S80 and revised accessory brackets in the V70-and from 2002 the P2 platform adopted the B5244SG5, creating a clear model year cutoff. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the left-hand side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Volvo Greenbook). The code will read 'B5244SG2'. Critical differentiation from the B5244S: The 'SG2' suffix denotes the Euro 3 compliant variant with specific ECU mapping. Visually, the DOHC cylinder head with two camshaft covers and the distributorless ignition system (coil packs) are definitive identifiers.
The B5244SG2's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in engines subjected to extended service intervals. Volvo service documentation links this to component fatigue and improper maintenance, while its belt-driven interference design makes neglect catastrophic. Adherence to the 80,000 km replacement schedule is non-negotiable.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1999-2002) and owner club maintenance records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5244-SG2.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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