The Volvo D 16 is a 16,116 cc, inline‑six turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2003 and 2011. It features a robust cast-iron block, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 24 valves, paired with a high-pressure common-rail fuel system. In its various outputs, it delivered 460–700 PS, making it a cornerstone for Volvo Trucks' heavy-duty FH and FM series, renowned for its pulling power and durability.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo FH16 and FM16 trucks, the D 16 was engineered for maximum torque and reliability in long-haul and heavy-duty applications. Emissions compliance evolved from Euro III to Euro V standards during its production, achieved through Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) and, in later models, Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) with AdBlue.
One documented service concern involves premature wear of the unit injector seals, which can lead to fuel dilution of engine oil and subsequent bearing damage. This is addressed in Volvo Trucks Service Bulletin TSB‑16‑003, which details inspection procedures and recommends upgraded seal materials for affected engines.
Production years 2003–2005 meet Euro III standards; 2006–2008 meet Euro IV; 2009–2011 models meet Euro V compliance (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/VOLVOFH16).
The Volvo D 16 is a 16,116 cc inline‑six turbo‑diesel engineered for heavy-duty trucks (2003-2011). It combines a high-pressure common-rail fuel system with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver immense low-end torque and sustained power for demanding haulage. Designed to meet evolving Euro III to Euro V emissions standards, it prioritizes operational durability and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 16,116 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) & Intercooled | |
| Bore × stroke | 135.0 mm × 188.0 mm | |
| Power output | 460–700 PS (338–515 kW) | |
| Torque | 2,200–3,150 Nm @ 1,000–1,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Denso Unit Injector (UI) system | |
| Emissions standard | Euro III (2003-05); Euro IV (2006-08); Euro V (2009-11) | |
| Compression ratio | 17.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Holset) | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (ACEA E7/E9) | |
| Dry weight | 1,420 kg |
The immense torque output makes the D 16 ideal for heavy loads but demands strict adherence to oil change intervals (every 60,000 km or 6 months) to prevent wear. ACEA E7/E9 specification oil is critical for protecting against soot and ensuring injector longevity. The unit injector system is sensitive to fuel quality; using ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) is mandatory. Early Euro III/IV engines are susceptible to injector seal failure; inspect oil for diesel smell and replace seals per TSB-16-003 if found. SCR-equipped Euro V models require regular AdBlue top-ups to avoid derate.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA E7 or E9 specification oil (Volvo Trucks Owner's Manual FH16). Viscosity 10W-40 is standard for most climates.
Emissions: Euro III certification applies to 2003-2005 models; Euro IV for 2006-2008; Euro V for 2009-2011 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/VOLVOFH16).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Higher 700 PS output requires specific calibration and is found in later FH16 'Titan' models (Volvo Trucks Group PT-2010).
Volvo Trucks Technical Service Manual (TP 40000)
Volvo Trucks Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. VTEP-FH16-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/VOLVOFH16)
The Volvo D 16 was used exclusively across Volvo Trucks's FH and FM heavy-duty platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received significant ECU and emissions system revisions for Euro IV and Euro V compliance, creating interchange limits for electronic and exhaust components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a machined pad on the left side of the cylinder block, near the front engine mount (Volvo Trucks TP 40000). The 8th digit of the VIN for FH/FM trucks is 'D' for D16 engines. Pre-Euro V (2003-2008) engines lack an AdBlue tank and SCR system; Euro V (2009-2011) models have a blue-capped AdBlue filler neck. Critical differentiation from the smaller D13: The D16 has a 16L displacement (bore 135mm) versus the 13L (bore 131mm) of the D13. ECU and injector part numbers are specific to emissions standard (Euro III/IV/V) and must be matched precisely.
The D 16's primary reliability risk is unit injector seal failure, with elevated incidence in engines with extended oil change intervals. Volvo Trucks internal reports noted a significant number of bearing failures linked to fuel dilution, while general fleet data frequently cites EGR cooler leaks after 500,000 km. Neglecting AdBlue system maintenance on Euro V models can trigger severe derates, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo Trucks technical bulletins (2005-2011) and aggregated fleet maintenance data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-16.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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