The Volvo D24 is a 2,383 cc, inline‑six turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1979 and 1993. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder and mechanical fuel injection via a Bosch VE distributor pump. In standard form it delivered 82 kW (112 PS), providing robust low-end torque characteristic of Volvo’s durable diesel engines.
Fitted primarily to the 240, 260, and 700 Series sedans and wagons, the D24 was engineered for longevity, fuel economy, and effortless highway cruising. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through indirect injection and basic exhaust aftertreatment, meeting prevailing national standards prior to formal Euro regulations.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the vacuum pump diaphragm, which can lead to loss of brake booster assist and cruise control function. This issue, addressed in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑07‑85, is attributed to material fatigue. The D24 was superseded by the D24TIC and later the inline-five D5252T engines.
Production years 1979–1993 pre-date formal Euro standards; compliance based on national regulations at time of manufacture (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Volvo D24 is a 2,383 cc inline‑six turbo‑diesel engineered for premium sedans and wagons (1979-1993). It combines SOHC valvetrain with a Bosch VE mechanical injection pump to deliver strong low‑end torque and exceptional durability. Designed for longevity, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability over peak performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,383 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 82 kW (112 PS) @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE mechanical injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (National Standards) | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | KKK K24 (non-intercooled) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40 (API CC/CD) | |
| Dry weight | 210 kg |
The mechanical injection and high compression ratio provide exceptional durability and tolerance for lower-grade fuels, but require precise pump timing. The non-intercooled turbo delivers torque but can suffer from heat soak; allow engine to idle for 1-2 minutes after hard driving. The vacuum pump is critical for brakes and cruise control; diaphragm failure per TSB-07-85 necessitates immediate replacement. Oil changes with robust 15W-40 diesel oil are essential for turbo and bottom-end longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40 meeting API CC/CD specification for adequate soot handling (Volvo Owner's Manual 240).
Emissions: Pre-dates Euro standards; certified under national regulations (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is conservative for reliability (Volvo TDS-24).
Volvo Technical Information System: Docs TP 20450, TDS-24, TSB-07-85
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
The Volvo D24 was used in Volvo's rear-wheel-drive 200 and 700 Series platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts and a unique exhaust manifold-for the 240 Turbo Diesel. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat pad on the left side of the cylinder block, near the fuel injection pump (Volvo Service Manual TP 20450). The D24 is visually identified by its inline-six configuration, the Bosch VE injection pump mounted on the right side, and the KKK turbocharger on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from the naturally aspirated D24: The turbocharged D24 has a visible turbo unit and associated plumbing; the non-turbo variant lacks these components and produces significantly less power.
The D24's primary reliability risk is vacuum pump diaphragm failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Volvo TSB-07-85 documents a high failure rate, while general owner experience confirms its status as a common wear item. Extended service intervals and exposure to engine heat accelerate this wear, making proactive replacement critical for safety.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1979-1993) and aggregated owner repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-24.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLVO or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLVO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
