The Volvo B 5244 T3 is a 2,435 cc, inline‑five turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2005. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminum head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and multi-point fuel injection. This unit delivered 147 kW (200 PS) and 285 Nm of torque, engineered for refined yet spirited performance in Volvo’s executive models.
Fitted to models such as the S60, V70, and XC90 (early T5 variants), the B 5244 T3 was designed for drivers seeking a balance of strong acceleration, smooth power delivery, and everyday practicality. Emissions compliance was achieved through catalytic converters and engine management, meeting Euro 3 standards across all markets.
One documented concern is premature failure of the turbocharger control solenoid, potentially leading to boost pressure fluctuations and reduced performance. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin 3‑01‑009, is often linked to electrical connector corrosion. In 2005, Volvo introduced the updated B5254T2 engine with revised turbo components.
Production years 1998–2005 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STV/B5244/1998).
The Volvo B 5244 T3 is a 2,435 cc inline‑five turbocharged petrol engine engineered for executive sedans, wagons, and SUVs (1998-2005). It combines a unique five-cylinder architecture with DOHC and a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances responsive performance with everyday drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,435 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 285 Nm @ 1,800–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic 4.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Low-inertia turbo (Garrett T25) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven dual overhead camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SG/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The turbocharged inline-five design provides smooth, linear power ideal for highway cruising and overtaking but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent failure. The low-inertia turbo delivers responsive performance but is sensitive to vacuum and electrical faults. The non-interference design provides a safety margin if the belt fails. Regular inspection of the turbo control solenoid's electrical connector per Volvo TSB 3-01-009 is critical for reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/CC specification oil (SAE 10W-40) for optimal turbo and bearing protection (Volvo TSB 3-01-009).
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all models in this production period (Swedish Transport Agency #STV/B5244/1998).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Output is consistent across S60/V70/XC90 applications (Volvo Tech Spec 1998).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1998)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet (1998)
Volvo Technical Service Bulletin 3-01-009
Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STV/B5244/1998
The Volvo B 5244 T3 was used across Volvo's P2 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU and emissions revisions over its lifespan, creating minor interchange limits for electronic components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front of the engine block, near the timing cover (Volvo Workshop Manual 1998). The code will read "B5244T3". Visual identification: Cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head with two cam covers, timing belt cover on the front, and a prominent Garrett T25 turbocharger on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from B5254T: B5244T3 has a 2.4L displacement (83.0mm bore) vs 2.5L (83.0mm bore, longer stroke). Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated B5244S: B5244T3 has a turbocharger and intercooler. Ancillary parts may vary by year; consult EPC for exact fitment.
The B 5244 T3's primary reliability risk is failure of the turbocharger control solenoid, as documented in Volvo TSB 3-01-009. This can lead to erratic boost pressure and reduced performance. While the engine's mechanical components are robust, neglecting the 60,000 km timing belt interval remains a critical secondary risk, though the non-interference design prevents catastrophic damage if it fails.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical service bulletins (1998-2005) and historical workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5244-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
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