The Volvo B 5252 is a 2,460 cc, inline‑five naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1991 and 1996. It featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with an aluminum cylinder head, marking Volvo's modern 20-valve architecture. Output ranged from 125 kW (170 PS) to 147 kW (200 PS), with torque figures around 230–240 Nm, providing smooth, refined performance.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo 850 and 960, the B 5252 was engineered for executive sedans and estates, prioritizing quiet operation and effortless cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through multi-point fuel injection and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 1 standards for its production period. Its design emphasized low-end torque and mechanical refinement over peak horsepower.
One documented concern is premature failure of the plastic oil trap (PCV) housing, which can lead to oil leaks and vacuum leaks. This issue, referenced in Volvo Service Bulletin #5252-01, is often linked to material brittleness and heat cycling. In 1994, Volvo introduced a revised oil trap housing with improved material composition.
Production years 1991–1996 meet Euro 1 standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 historical annex).
The Volvo B 5252 is a 2,460 cc inline‑five naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and estates (1991-1996). It combines a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 20-valve design with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, refined performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it relies on electronic engine management and catalytic converters for compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,460 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 125–147 kW (170–200 PS) | |
| Torque | 230–240 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic 3.2 multi-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (API SH/SG) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 170 kg |
The DOHC 20-valve design offers smooth, linear power ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. SAE 5W-30 oil is critical for optimal engine protection. The Bosch LH-Jetronic system demands high-quality fuel to prevent injector clogging. Pre-1994 engines should have the plastic oil trap housing inspected or upgraded per Volvo Service Bulletin #5252-01. Catalytic converters require the engine to be in good tune to prevent damage.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 specification (Volvo Service Bulletin #5252-01). Supersedes earlier API requirements.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1991-1996 models (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Peak power requires 95 RON fuel (Volvo Group Historical Archive).
Volvo Service Manual (1993 Edition)
Volvo Technical Bulletin TB-022 (1991)
Volvo EPC Archive Doc. VEP-1991
Volvo Service Bulletin #5252-01
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Volvo B 5252 was used across Volvo's 850/960 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor updates during its production run, including revised oil trap housing specifications. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code "B5252" followed by a letter (e.g., "B5252S") is typically stamped on a flat pad on the block, located on the front face near the timing belt cover or on the exhaust side of the cylinder head. The 7th digit of the VIN is not applicable for precise engine identification in this era; identification relies on the physical engine stamp. Key visual identifiers include the DOHC valve cover, the plastic intake manifold, and the longitudinal mounting. Differentiation from the turbocharged B5234T is by the absence of a turbocharger. Differentiation from the later B5254S is by the smaller displacement.
The B 5252's primary long-term reliability risk is plastic oil trap (PCV) housing failure, particularly in units with high mileage. While formal failure statistics are unavailable for this vintage, enthusiast club data and workshop reports consistently cite oil trap leaks, timing belt neglect, and fuel system faults as the most common causes for repair. Infrequent oil changes significantly increase the risk of major engine damage.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1991-1996) and aggregated data from Volvo enthusiast clubs and specialist workshops. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines where available.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5252.
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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