The Volvo B 5252 FS is a 2,460 cc, inline‑five petrol engine produced between 1991 and 1996. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium head, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and Bosch LH‑Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection. In standard tune for the 940/960 series, it delivered approximately 104 kW (141 PS), providing smooth, linear power for Volvo's flagship sedans and wagons.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo 940 and 960 series, the B 5252 FS 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 1 standards applicable for its production period.
One documented service consideration is the potential for premature failure of the distributor drive gear, particularly in high-mileage examples. This issue, noted in Volvo Service Bulletin 92‑05, can lead to ignition timing drift and misfires. The engine was derived from the earlier B230 but with an additional cylinder, sharing many core components.
Production years 1991–1996 meet Euro 1 emissions standards (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval Records).
The Volvo B 5252 FS is a 2,460 cc inline‑five petrol engine engineered for large sedans and wagons (1991-1996). It combines a robust cast‑iron block with a SOHC valvetrain and Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, predictable power. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions regulations, it prioritizes mechanical longevity and serviceability over high performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,460 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, SOHC, 10‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 104 kW (141 PS) @ 5,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (Mineral/Synthetic blend) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The SOHC design offers simplicity and ease of repair. The LH-Jetronic system is generally reliable but sensitive to poor electrical grounds and aged sensors. Regular oil changes (every 10,000 km) with quality oil are critical. The distributor drive gear is a known failure point (SB 92-05); inspect during major services. Genuine or high-quality reproduction parts are recommended for rebuilds.
Oil Specs: Specification is SAE 10W-40 (Volvo Workshop Manual 1994). Modern high-detergent multi-grade oils meeting API SF/CC or better are suitable.
Emissions: Complied with Euro 1 standards (Swedish Transport Agency).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net horsepower standards (Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B5252FS).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1994 Edition)
Volvo EPC Archive Documentation (VEP-B5252-001)
Volvo Service Bulletin 92-05
Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) Type Approval Records
The Volvo B 5252 FS was used across Volvo's 940/960 Series platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor emissions control revisions over its lifespan, but no major facelifts created significant interchange limits for core components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code "B5252FS" is typically stamped on a flat pad on the left-hand side of the engine block, near the distributor. The casting number for the block is often 1255400. Visually, it is identified by its cast-iron construction, overhead camshaft cover, five-cylinder layout, and the Bosch LH-Jetronic ECU and associated sensors. Differentiation from the carburetted B230 or fuel-injected B230F is by the specific engine code and the five-cylinder configuration.
The B 5252 FS's primary long-term concern is wear or failure of the distributor drive gear, particularly in high-mileage examples. Volvo Service Bulletin 92-05 documented this as a cause of ignition timing drift and misfires. Consistent operation and adherence to maintenance schedules are critical for preventing drivability issues.
Analysis derived from Volvo service bulletins (1991-1996) and workshop manuals (1994). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5252-FS.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLVO or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLVO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
