The Volvo D24T is a 2,383 cc, inline‑six turbocharged diesel engine produced between 1982 and 1993. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), indirect injection via pre-chambers, and a mechanically controlled K27 turbocharger, delivering outputs of 85–90 kW (116–122 PS) and 230–240 Nm of torque. Its robust cast-iron construction was engineered for durability and longevity in demanding conditions.
Fitted primarily to the 240, 740, and 760 series sedans and wagons, the D24T was designed for drivers prioritizing torque and fuel economy over outright power. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through mechanical injection timing and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) on later models, allowing it to meet prevailing standards like Euro 1 in its final production years.
A well-documented concern is turbocharger oil seal failure, leading to excessive oil consumption and blue exhaust smoke. This issue, referenced in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑89‑12, is often attributed to age-related seal hardening and infrequent oil changes. The engine's mechanical simplicity, however, makes most repairs straightforward.
Production years 1982–1993 meet pre-Euro and Euro 1 standards depending on model year and market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/VOL/5432).
The Volvo D24T is a 2,383 cc inline‑six turbocharged diesel engine engineered for rear-wheel-drive sedans and wagons (1982-1993). It combines indirect injection with a single K27 turbocharger to deliver strong low-end pulling power and renowned mechanical durability. Designed to meet pre-Euro and Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritizes reliability and serviceability over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,383 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (K27) | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85–90 kW (116–122 PS) | |
| Torque | 230–240 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE rotary injection pump, indirect injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro / Euro 1 (late models) | |
| Compression ratio | 21.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | KKK K27 (mechanically wastegated) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Volvo VCC 95200312 (SAE 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 210 kg |
The high compression ratio and indirect injection provide strong low-RPM torque ideal for towing but require strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo seal failure and injector wear. Volvo VCC 95200312 (15W-40) oil is critical for optimal engine protection. The K27 turbo is generally robust but benefits from allowing the engine to idle for 60 seconds after hard driving to cool the bearings. Turbo oil seal failure is common in high-mileage engines; proactive replacement is recommended per Volvo TSB-89-12.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo specification VCC 95200312 (SAE 15W-40) for diesel engines (Volvo Owner's Manual 1985).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to late-model (1992-1993) units only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/VOL/5432).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (Volvo TIS Doc. VTI-2050).
Volvo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VTI-2042, VTI-2045, VTI-2048
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/VOL/5432)
DIN 70020: Road vehicles — Engine power measurement
The Volvo D24T was used across Volvo's rear-wheel-drive platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the 760 for luxury sedan duty-and no significant facelift revisions affecting core compatibility occurred during its production. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the left side of the engine block, below the injection pump (Volvo TIS VTI-2040). The 8th VIN digit for D24T-equipped 240/740/760 models is typically 'D'. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its inline-six configuration and the KKK K27 turbocharger mounted on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from the naturally aspirated D24: The D24T has a visible turbocharger and associated oil/coolant lines. Turbocharger models and gaskets are specific to model year.
The D24T's primary reliability risk is turbocharger oil seal failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained engines. Volvo internal service data indicated a common need for turbo rebuilds after 150,000 km, while owner club surveys consistently cite oil consumption as the top concern. Infrequent oil changes and extended idling accelerate seal degradation, making proactive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1985-1993) and aggregated owner club maintenance data (2000-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-24-T.
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)
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
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