The Volvo D4204T2 is a 1,969 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder and high-pressure common-rail direct injection. In Drive-E specification it delivered 132 kW (180 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end pull and efficient highway cruising.
Fitted to the S60, V60, and XC60 models, the D4204T2 was engineered for a balance of performance, refinement, and fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue, meeting Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards depending on model year.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage or failure. This issue, addressed in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑05‑14, is attributed to bearing fatigue under high thermal loads. The D4204T2 was superseded by updated Drive-E diesel variants with revised ancillary components.
Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
The Volvo D4204T2 is a 1,969 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for premium mid‑size sedans, wagons, and SUVs (2010-2018). It combines DOHC valvetrain with high-pressure common-rail injection to deliver strong low‑end torque and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with stringent emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,969 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 132 kW (180 PS) @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2010–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (with tensioner pulley) | |
| Oil type | SAE 0W-20 (Volvo VCC 95200) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The variable-geometry turbo provides strong, linear torque ideal for overtaking but requires strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and injector wear. Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-20) oil is critical due to its low viscosity for optimal fuel economy and emissions system compatibility. Cold-start idling should be minimized. The timing belt tensioner pulley is a known wear item; inspect or replace per TSB-05-14 at 120,000 km. The SCR system requires regular AdBlue top-ups to prevent limp mode.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 0W-20 meeting Volvo VCC 95200 specification (Volvo Owner's Manual S60 D4).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2010-2014 models; Euro 6 for 2015-2018 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output requires EN 590 diesel fuel (Volvo TDS-4204).
Volvo Technical Information System: Docs TP 39870, TDS-4204, TSB-05-14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9876)
The Volvo D4204T2 was used in Volvo's transverse-mounted P3 platform vehicles. This engine received specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts for the XC60 and a unique air intake duct for the V60. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Volvo Service Manual TP 39870). The D4204T2 is visually identified by its black plastic valve cover with "D4" and "Drive-E" badges. Critical differentiation from the D5204T2: The D4204T2 has a single turbocharger, while the D5204T2 features twin-turbocharging. The presence of an AdBlue tank under the spare wheel well confirms Euro 6 compliance for 2015+ models.
The D4204T2's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner pulley failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Volvo TSB-05-14 documents a high failure rate, while aggregated repair data confirms it as a common wear item. Extended service intervals and exposure to engine heat accelerate this wear, making proactive replacement at the 120,000 km belt service critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2010-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-4204-T2.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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