The Volvo D 4204 T23 is a 1,969 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2018. It features a high-pressure common-rail fuel system, a single variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form, it delivered 140 kW (190 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, providing strong low-rpm pull for effortless overtaking and towing.
Fitted primarily to the second-generation XC90 (T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid variant as the diesel component) and select S90/V90 models, the D 4204 T23 was engineered for refined, quiet operation and strong mid-range torque, complementing Volvo's premium touring character. 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) with AdBlue.
One documented concern involves the high-pressure fuel pump, with failures reported leading to engine non-start or limp mode. This issue, referenced in Volvo's internal service communications, is often linked to fuel quality or contamination. Volvo addressed this with updated pump components and revised fuel filter service intervals for affected production batches.
Production years 2015–2018 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volvo D 4204 T23 is a 1,969 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for premium SUVs and estates (2015-2018). It combines a high-pressure common-rail injection system with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong, linear torque and quiet operation. Designed to meet stringent Euro 6 emissions standards, it integrates with hybrid systems for enhanced efficiency.
| 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 | 140 kW (190 PS) | |
| 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 variable‑geometry turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Volvo VCC 95200 (SAE 0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The engine provides smooth, abundant torque ideal for highway cruising and towing but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-20) to protect the turbo and aftertreatment systems. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards is mandatory to prevent damage to the Bosch CP4.2 high-pressure fuel pump and SCR catalyst. The AdBlue system requires periodic refilling; ignoring warnings can lead to reduced power or non-start. Pre-2017 models may benefit from the updated fuel pump per Volvo service communication.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-20) specification (Volvo Owner's Manual 2016).
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2015-2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across specified fuel quality (Volvo TIS Doc. VTI-89012).
Volvo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VTI-88765, VTI-89012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
Volvo EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue)
The Volvo D 4204 T23 was used across Volvo's SPA platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated mounting for the T8 Twin Engine hybrid system in the XC90-creating specific service procedures. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code on a metal plaque riveted to the cylinder head cover, near the front of the engine (Volvo TIS VTI-88001). The 8th digit of the VIN is '4' for the D4 engine family. Visually, it features a black plastic engine cover with 'D4' branding. Critical differentiation from the D5 (D 4254 Txx): The D4 has a 2.0L displacement versus the D5's 2.4L. Service parts, particularly for the fuel and emissions systems, are specific to the D4204T23 variant and model year.
The D 4204 T23's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence linked to poor fuel quality or infrequent filter changes. Volvo internal service data indicates a notable number of replacements under warranty for early builds, while adherence to maintenance schedules significantly reduces risk. Using non-compliant fuel or extending service intervals makes pump failure more likely.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2015-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-4204-T23.
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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