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…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The D4204T2 is generally a robust and efficient engine. Its main weakness is the timing belt tensioner pulley, which should be proactively replaced. With regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and addressing the EGR/AdBlue systems, it can provide reliable service beyond 250,000 km. Adhering to the service schedule is paramount.
The most frequent issues are timing belt tensioner pulley failure (per TSB-05-14), EGR valve and cooler clogging leading to performance loss, AdBlue system faults causing limp mode, and turbocharger actuator failures. These are well-documented in Volvo service bulletins from the 2010s.
The D4204T2 was used in the second-generation S60 (2010-2018), V60 (2010-2018), and first-generation XC60 (2010-2017) models, all badged as 'D4'. It was a core part of Volvo's Drive-E diesel lineup for these popular mid-size vehicles.
Yes, it responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes can safely increase power to around 200-220 PS and torque to 450-480 Nm. The stock turbo and internals can handle this increase. More aggressive tuning requires upgraded components. Always ensure the cooling and emissions systems are in top condition before tuning.
Fuel economy is very good for its performance. Expect around 7.5 L/100km (37.5 mpg UK) in mixed driving for an S60 D4. Highway cruising can yield 5.5 L/100km (51 mpg UK). Real-world combined figures typically range from 35-40 mpg UK, depending on driving style and vehicle condition.
Yes. The Volvo D4204T2 is an interference engine. If the timing belt were to fail, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. This makes adhering to the 120,000 km timing belt and tensioner replacement schedule absolutely critical.
Volvo specifies SAE 0W-20 oil meeting their VCC 95200 standard. This low-viscosity oil is essential for optimal fuel economy, emissions system function, and engine protection. Using the correct specification is non-negotiable for long-term reliability.
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.