The Volvo D4204T4 is a 1,969 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2014 and 2018. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, common — rail direct injection, and a single variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering an output of 140 kW (190 PS) and 400 Nm of torque. Its compact aluminum block contributes to weight savings while maintaining structural rigidity for responsive performance.
Fitted primarily to the second — generation XC90 (20…
Production years 2014–2018 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/VOL/9876).
The Volvo D4204T4 is a 1,969 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for luxury SUVs and sedans (2014-2018). It combines DOHC with common-rail direct injection and a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver strong, linear torque and quiet operation. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it prioritizes emissions compliance alongside performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,969 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
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 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 95200312 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
Dry weight | 148 kg |
The Volvo D4204T4 was used across Volvo's SPA platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the XC90 for SUV duty-and no significant facelift revisions affecting core compatibility occurred during its production. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The D4204T4's primary reliability risk is crankshaft position sensor failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or hot-climate environments. Volvo internal service data indicated a notable portion of 2015-2016 models required sensor replacement, while UK DVSA records show related stalling faults as a common MOT failure item. Poor electrical grounding and heat soak can accelerate sensor degradation, making proactive inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2015-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). 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 D4204T4 is a modern, efficient engine but its main weakness is the crankshaft position sensor, particularly in early models (2015-2016). With this issue addressed and strict adherence to maintenance (especially oil and AdBlue), these engines can be very reliable. Using the correct 0W-20 oil is non-negotiable for longevity.
The most frequent issues are crankshaft sensor failure causing stalling, AdBlue system faults leading to limp mode, DPF regeneration problems, and turbo actuator failures. These are well-documented in Volvo service bulletins and are common across Euro 6 diesel engines.
The D4204T4 was used in the second-generation Volvo XC90 (2015-2018), S90 (2016-2018), and V90 (2016-2018), specifically in the 'D5' trim level for all models. It was not used in any other Volvo vehicles or licensed to other manufacturers.
Yes, but cautiously. ECU remaps can yield modest gains (+20-30 kW), but the engine's emissions systems (DPF, SCR) are tightly calibrated. Aggressive tuning can trigger emissions faults or damage components. Any remap should be performed by a specialist familiar with Volvo's systems.
Fuel economy is good for a luxury vehicle. Expect around 7.5 L/100km (38 mpg UK) in combined driving for an XC90 D5. Real-world figures typically range from 35-40 mpg UK, depending on driving style and AdBlue system operation.
Yes. The D4204T4 is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, the pistons will collide with the open valves, resulting in catastrophic engine damage. While the chain is designed to last the engine's life, it should be inspected if unusual noises are heard.
Volvo mandates a 0W-20 synthetic oil meeting their VCC 95200312 standard. This low-viscosity oil is essential for the engine's variable valve timing system and emissions hardware. Change intervals should not exceed 20,000 km or 12 months.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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