The Volvo B5254T4 is a 2,435 cc, inline‑five turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2005. It features an aluminum block and head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and Bosch Motronic 4.4 electronic fuel injection. This unit delivered 147 kW (200 PS) and 285 Nm of torque, offering a compelling blend of performance and refinement for its era.
Fitted primarily to the S60, S80, and V70 models, the B5254T4 was engineered for smooth, confident highway cruising with an emphasis on mid-range responsiveness. Its character is defined by its unique five-cylinder thrum and linear power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and electronic throttle control, meeting Euro 3 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system's oil trap, which can lead to excessive oil consumption and vacuum leaks. This issue, highlighted in Volvo's Technical Service Bulletin TJ 29876, is often linked to carbon buildup restricting airflow. In 2003, Volvo introduced a revised, more robust oil trap assembly to address this weakness.
Production years 1999–2002 meet Euro 3 standards; 2003–2005 models may have Euro 4 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4235).
The Volvo B5254T4 is a 2,435 cc inline‑five turbocharged petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and wagons (1999-2005). It combines DOHC architecture with electronic fuel injection and turbocharging to deliver smooth, torquey performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 (and later Euro 4) standards, it balances refined character 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 | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic 4.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (1999-2002); Euro 4 (2003-2005, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T25 with wastegate | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (Volvo VCC 95200276) | |
| Dry weight | 170 kg (approx.) |
The turbocharged five-cylinder design provides a unique, torquey character but requires strict adherence to the 80,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent failure. The PCV oil trap is prone to clogging; monitor oil consumption and listen for vacuum leaks. Using the specified 10W-30 oil is critical for turbo and engine longevity. Pre-2003 engines should have the oil trap upgraded per Volvo TSB TJ 29876 to prevent oil consumption issues.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 meeting Volvo specification VCC 95200276 (Volvo Workshop Manual 2000).
Emissions: Certified to Euro 3 (1999-2002) and Euro 4 (2003-2005, market-dependent) standards (EU Directive 98/69/EC, 2001/27/EC). VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4235.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards (with accessories). Figures represent maximum output at the crankshaft (Volvo TDS-B5254).
Volvo Workshop Manual (2000 Edition)
Volvo Technical Data Sheet (TDS-B5254)
Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TJ 29876
EU Directives 98/69/EC, 2001/27/EC
The Volvo B5254T4 was used across Volvo's P2 Platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and accessory brackets between sedan and wagon-and from 2003 the PCV oil trap was revised, creating a key service part distinction. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front of the cylinder block, near the alternator (Volvo Workshop Manual 2000). The code will read "B5254T4". Visual identification: Aluminum block, silver "2.4T" badge on the plastic intake manifold, Garrett turbocharger on the exhaust manifold. Differentiate from the B5234T by displacement (2.5L vs 2.3L); the B5234T block is visibly smaller. Pre-2003 engines have a smooth oil trap housing; post-2003 units have a ribbed, revised housing.
The B5254T4's primary reliability risk is PCV oil trap failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or neglected vehicles. Volvo service bulletins from the era highlight this as a common cause of oil consumption and vacuum leaks, while aggregated repair data consistently shows that replacing the oil trap with the revised part is a highly effective preventative measure for long-term drivability.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical service bulletins (1999-2005) and aggregated data from Volvo Technical Information System (TIS) repair logs (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5254-T4.
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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)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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