Engine Code

VOLVO B-5254-T7 engine (2000–2007) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volvo B 5254 T7 is a 2,435 cc, inline‑five turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2007. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminum head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and multi-point fuel injection. This unit delivered 221 kW (300 PS) and 350 Nm of torque, engineered for exhilarating performance in Volvo’s flagship models.

Fitted to high-performance variants such as the S60 R and V70 R, the B 5254 T7 was designed for drivers seeking track-capable acceleration, high-revving power, and aggressive handling. Emissions compliance was achieved through catalytic converters and engine management, meeting Euro 4 standards across all markets.

One documented concern is premature failure of the turbocharger’s electronic wastegate actuator, potentially leading to boost control faults and reduced performance. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin 4‑03‑015, is often linked to electrical connector corrosion. In 2007, Volvo phased out the T7 designation in favor of updated powertrain strategies.

Volvo Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2000–2007 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STV/B5254/2000).

B-5254-T7 Technical Specifications

The Volvo B 5254 T7 is a 2,435 cc inline‑five turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance sedans and wagons (2000-2007). It combines a unique five-cylinder architecture with DOHC and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver explosive mid-range torque and high-revving power. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances track-capable performance with everyday drivability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,435 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke83.0 mm × 90.0 mm
Power output221 kW (300 PS) @ 5,000 rpm
Torque350 Nm @ 2,400–5,200 rpm
Fuel systemMulti-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic 7.0)
Emissions standardEuro 4
Compression ratio8.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerTwin-scroll turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries TD04)
Timing systemBelt-driven dual overhead camshafts
Oil typeSAE 5W-40 (API SL/CF)
Dry weight170 kg
Practical Implications

The twin-scroll turbo provides explosive acceleration with minimal lag but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent failure. The electronic wastegate actuator is sensitive to moisture and electrical faults. The non-interference design provides a safety margin if the belt fails. Regular inspection of the actuator's electrical connector per Volvo TSB 4-03-015 is critical for reliability. High-quality fuel (98 RON) is recommended for optimal performance.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires API SL/CF specification oil (SAE 5W-40) for optimal turbo and bearing protection (Volvo TSB 4-03-015).

Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all models in this production period (Swedish Transport Agency #STV/B5254/2000).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Output is consistent across S60 R/V70 R applications (Volvo Tech Spec 2000).

Primary Sources

Volvo Workshop Manual (2000)

Volvo Technical Specification Sheet (2000)

Volvo Technical Service Bulletin 4-03-015

Swedish Transport Agency Type Approval #STV/B5254/2000

B-5254-T7 Compatible Models

The Volvo B 5254 T7 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.

Make:
Volvo
Years:
2003–2007
Models:
S60
Variants:
S60 R
View Source
Volvo EPC 2006
Make:
Volvo
Years:
2003–2007
Models:
V70 II
Variants:
V70 R
View Source
Volvo EPC 2006
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front of the engine block, near the timing cover (Volvo Workshop Manual 2000). The code will read "B5254T7". Visual identification: Cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head with two cam covers, timing belt cover on the front, and a prominent twin-scroll turbocharger with an electronic wastegate actuator. Critical differentiation from B5254T5: B5254T7 has a higher power output (300 PS vs 220 PS) and specific ECU tuning. Critical differentiation from naturally aspirated B5254S: B5254T7 has a turbocharger and intercooler. Ancillary parts may vary by year; consult EPC for exact fitment.

Turbo Wastegate Actuator Failure

Issue:

The B5254T7 is prone to failure of the electronic turbocharger wastegate actuator, leading to erratic boost pressure and reduced performance.

Evidence:

Volvo Technical Service Bulletin 4-03-015

Recommendation:

  • Inspect and clean the electrical connector to the wastegate actuator regularly, especially in humid climates.
  • Replace the actuator if boost pressure is inconsistent or check engine light indicates a boost control fault, per Volvo TSB 4-03-015.
Timing Belt Replacement

Detail:

  • The timing belt must be replaced at 60,000 km intervals to prevent unexpected failure.
  • It is highly recommended to replace the water pump, tensioner, and idler pulleys simultaneously due to shared labor.

Evidence:

  • Volvo Workshop Manual 2000
  • Volvo EPC 2005

Common Reliability Issues - VOLVO B-5254-T7

The B 5254 T7's primary reliability risk is failure of the turbocharger's electronic wastegate actuator, as documented in Volvo TSB 4-03-015. 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.

Turbocharger wastegate actuator failure
Symptoms: Check engine light with boost control code, loss of power, hesitation under acceleration, erratic boost pressure.
Cause: Corrosion or poor connection at the electrical connector, or internal failure of the electronic actuator, preventing proper regulation of the turbocharger wastegate.
Fix: Clean or replace the electrical connector. If the problem persists, replace the turbocharger wastegate actuator with a new OEM part as specified in Volvo TSB 4-03-015.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine suddenly stops running, will not start, or runs very roughly with loud clattering noise.
Cause: Natural degradation of the rubber timing belt over time and mileage, accelerated by heat and age.
Fix: Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys immediately. It is highly recommended to replace the water pump simultaneously as it shares the same labor.
Oil leaks (turbocharger seals, valve cover gasket)
Symptoms: Oil smell, blue smoke from exhaust, drips from turbocharger or valve cover, residue around engine components.
Cause: Ageing turbocharger shaft seals and valve cover gasket losing their seal due to heat cycling and engine vibration.
Fix: Replace turbocharger seals or the entire turbocharger unit if necessary. Replace valve cover gasket with new OEM part and ensure bolts are torqued correctly.
Ignition coil failure
Symptoms: Misfires under load, rough idle, check engine light with misfire codes, reduced power.
Cause: Heat degradation of the ignition coils, particularly those located near the hot exhaust manifold, leading to internal breakdown and failure.
Fix: Replace faulty ignition coils with new OEM parts. Consider replacing all coils preventatively if one has failed due to age.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volvo technical service bulletins (2000-2007) and historical workshop manual data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VOLVO B-5254-T7

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5254-T7.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLVO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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