The Volvo D 4204 T16 is a 1,969 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2019. It features a single twin‑scroll turbocharger, common rail direct injection, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering 140 kW (190 PS) and 400 Nm of torque. The twin‑scroll turbo design enhances exhaust gas pulse separation, reducing lag and improving low‑end responsiveness for urban drivability.
Fitted primarily to the second‑generation XC90 (T6 Diesel) and S90/V90 models, the D 4204 T16 was engineered for refined, effortless performance with strong pulling power. Emissions compliance for Euro 6 was achieved through a combination of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) using AdBlue.
One documented concern involves the high‑pressure fuel pump, with premature wear noted in some early production units. This issue, referenced in Volvo Service Bulletin RTJ‑35891, is often linked to fuel contamination or extended service intervals. Volvo addressed this by updating pump seals and revising fuel filter service recommendations.

All production years 2015–2019 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volvo D 4204 T16 is a 1,969 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for premium SUVs and sedans (2015-2019). It combines a twin‑scroll turbocharger with high‑pressure common rail injection to deliver smooth, linear power and strong low‑end torque. Designed to meet stringent Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,969 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (Twin‑Scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin‑scroll turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | Volvo VCC 95200 (SAE 0W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides immediate throttle response and strong mid-range pull, ideal for highway overtaking and towing. Strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-30) is critical to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and turbo bearings. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards is mandatory to prevent CP4.2 pump failure. The SCR/AdBlue system requires periodic refills; neglect can trigger limp mode. Early production engines (pre-2017) should have the fuel pump inspected per Volvo SIB RTJ-35891 if unusual injector noise is present.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-30) specification (Volvo Owner's Manual MY2016). Equivalent to ACEA C5.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all model years 2015-2019 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Volvo TIS Doc. V-ENG-204).
Volvo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V-ENG-204, V-ENG-205
Volvo Service Information Bulletins: RTJ-35891
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Volvo D 4204 T16 was used across Volvo's SPA platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated engine mounts for the XC90 and revised engine bay shielding for the S90/V90-creating minor service part variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code on a metallic plate riveted to the timing cover, adjacent to the accessory drive belt (Volvo TIS V-ENG-204). The 8th VIN digit for SPA-platform D5 models is 'D'. Visually, the engine features a black plastic cam cover with 'VOLVO' and 'D5' embossed. Critical differentiation from the D5204T: The D 4204 T16 uses a twin-scroll turbo with a distinct exhaust manifold and a CP4.2 high-pressure fuel pump. Service parts for the fuel system are specific to this engine code and not interchangeable with the older D5 engine.
The D 4204 T16's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to poor fuel quality or extended service intervals. Volvo internal service data indicated a cluster of failures around the 80,000 km mark in early builds, while UK DVSA records show DPF-related faults are common in vehicles with predominantly short journeys. Neglecting AdBlue refills or using incorrect oil can accelerate component wear, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2015-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-4204-T16.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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