The Volvo B6304T3 is a 2,953 cc, inline‑six turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2011. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing (VVT) and a twin — scroll turbocharger, delivering strong, linear power delivery. Peak output is rated at 224 kW (304 PS) and 440 Nm of torque, making it a potent unit for its era.
Fitted primarily to the second — generation Volvo S80 (2007–2016) and the first — generation XC90 (2002–2014) in its la…
Production years 2007–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2011 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/VOLVO-B63).
The Volvo B6304T3 is a 2,953 cc inline‑six turbocharged petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and SUVs (2007-2011). It combines variable valve timing with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver smooth, high‑torque performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and some market‑specific Euro 5) standards, it balances power with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,953 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (Twin‑Scroll) | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
Power output | 224 kW (304 PS) | |
Torque | 440 Nm @ 2,100–4,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch ME7.0 electronic direct injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2010); Euro 5 depending on market | |
Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Garrett GT2556V twin‑scroll | |
Timing system | Chain‑driven (maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | Volvo VCC 95200377 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 185 kg |
The Volvo B6304T3 was used across Volvo's P2/P3 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the XC90 and specific ECU mapping for the S80-creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The B6304T3's primary reliability risk is variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil change intervals. Volvo internal service data indicates a significant portion of pre-2009 engines required solenoid replacement before 150,000 km, while owner reports frequently cite turbocharger wastegate rattle as a secondary concern. Poor oil maintenance accelerates solenoid clogging, making adherence to the specified oil type and interval critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2008-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The B6304T3 is a powerful and generally robust engine when properly maintained. Its main weakness is the VVT system on early builds (pre-2009), which is prone to solenoid failure if oil changes are neglected. Later revisions and strict adherence to using the correct 5W-30 oil greatly improve long-term reliability. The timing chain is designed to last the engine's lifetime.
The most frequent issues are VVT solenoid/actuator failures causing rough idle, turbocharger wastegate rattle, PCV system failures leading to oil leaks, and coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing. These are well-documented in Volvo service bulletins and owner reports.
This 3.0L turbo petrol engine was used in the second-generation Volvo S80 (2007-2016) and the first-generation Volvo XC90 (2007-2014) in their T6 trim levels. It was not used in any vehicles outside the Volvo brand.
Yes, the B6304T3 responds very well to tuning. A simple ECU remap (Stage 1) can safely increase power to around 260-280 kW (350-380 PS). More extensive modifications like a larger intercooler, downpipe, and upgraded turbo can yield even higher figures. The engine's internals are strong enough to handle moderate power increases reliably.
Fuel economy is moderate for its size and power. Expect around 12.5-14.0 L/100km (19-20 mpg UK) in combined city/highway driving for an S80 T6, and 13.5-15.0 L/100km (17-19 mpg UK) for the heavier XC90 T6. Aggressive driving will significantly increase consumption.
Yes. The B6304T3 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (which is extremely rare as it's designed to be maintenance-free), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. This underscores the importance of addressing any related noises immediately.
Volvo mandates the use of fully synthetic 5W-30 oil meeting specification VCC 95200377 (or a newer equivalent). Using the correct oil is paramount for protecting the turbocharger bearings and preventing VVT solenoid clogging. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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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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