Engine Code

VOLVO D-4204-T5 engine (2015–2019) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volvo D 4204 T5 is a 1,969 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2019. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and a high-pressure common-rail fuel system. This engine delivered a consistent 225 PS (165 kW) and 470 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive performance and strong acceleration in Volvo's premium models.

Fitted primarily to the S90, V90, and XC90 (non-hybrid variants), the D 4204 T5 was designed to offer a blend of power, refinement, and efficiency for executive driving. Emissions compliance for its production run was managed through a combination of Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) with AdBlue, meeting the stringent Euro 6 standard.

One documented service concern involves potential failure of the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler, which can lead to coolant loss and white exhaust smoke. This is addressed in Volvo Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑VCC‑04204‑003, which details the inspection and replacement procedure for affected units.

Volvo Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2015–2019) meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/VOLVOS90).

D-4204-T5 Technical Specifications

The Volvo D 4204 T5 is a 1,969 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for premium sedans, wagons, and SUVs (2015-2019). It combines a high-pressure common-rail fuel system with a single turbocharger to deliver strong, accessible torque and refined, powerful performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it integrates advanced emissions control for regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,969 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged & Intercooled
Bore × stroke82.0 mm × 93.2 mm
Power output225 PS (165 kW)
Torque470 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm
Fuel systemDenso HP4 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6
Compression ratio15.8:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries)
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeSAE 0W-20 (ACEA C5)
Dry weight165 kg
Practical Implications

The single turbo provides strong, linear torque ideal for confident overtaking but requires strict adherence to 15,000-20,000 km oil change intervals to prevent turbo and chain wear. ACEA C5 0W-20 oil is critical for protecting emissions systems and ensuring optimal fuel economy. The engine is sensitive to fuel quality; using ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) is mandatory. The EGR cooler is a known failure point; symptoms like white smoke warrant immediate inspection per TSB-VCC-04204-003. AdBlue must be kept topped up to avoid emissions-related derates.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires ACEA C5 specification 0W-20 oil (Volvo Owner's Manual S90). This low-viscosity oil is essential for DPF and SCR system longevity.

Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2015-2019 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/VOLVOS90).

Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across all applications (Volvo Group PT-2018).

Primary Sources

Volvo Technical Service Manual (TP 39990)

Volvo Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. VEP-S90-2016

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/VOLVOS90)

D-4204-T5 Compatible Models

The Volvo D 4204 T5 was used across Volvo's SPA platform with transverse mounting. This engine was specifically calibrated for high-output applications in conventional diesel variants of the S90, V90, and XC90. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Volvo
Years:
2016–2019
Models:
S90 (SPA)
Variants:
D5 Momentum, D5 Inscription
View Source
Volvo EPC Doc. VEP-S90-2016
Make:
Volvo
Years:
2016–2019
Models:
V90 (SPA)
Variants:
D5 Momentum, D5 Inscription
View Source
Volvo EPC Doc. VEP-V90-2016
Make:
Volvo
Years:
2015–2019
Models:
XC90 (SPA)
Variants:
D5 Momentum, D5 Inscription
View Source
Volvo EPC Doc. VEP-XC90-2015
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code on a label affixed to the timing cover or on the emissions compliance plate in the engine bay (Volvo TP 39990). The 8th digit of the VIN for SPA-platform vehicles with this engine is 'D'. Visually, the engine is part of the Volvo Drive-E family, identifiable by its compact size and integrated exhaust manifold within the cylinder head. Critical differentiation from the D4204T13: Both share the same 2.0L displacement, but the D4204T5 produces 225 PS vs. 235 PS for the T13. ECU software and turbocharger calibration are specific to the D5 application.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Volvo Service Manual (TP 39990)

Location:

Label on timing cover or emissions plate in engine bay (Volvo TP 39990).

Visual Cues:

Part of Volvo Drive-E family: compact design, exhaust manifold integrated into head.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Volvo EPC Doc. VEP-S90-2016

E C U Software:

ECU software for the D5 application is calibrated for its specific power level and is not interchangeable with the T6 Twin Engine's D4204T13 ECU.

Exhaust System:

Downpipes and manifolds are generally interchangeable between S90, V90, and XC90 D5 models of the same model year.
EGR Cooler Service Bulletin

Issue:

The EGR cooler can develop internal leaks, allowing coolant to mix with exhaust gas, leading to white smoke and potential engine damage.

Evidence:

Volvo TSB TSB-VCC-04204-003

Recommendation:

Inspect for coolant loss and white exhaust smoke. Replace the EGR cooler assembly with a new OEM unit per Volvo TSB TSB-VCC-04204-003 if symptoms are present.

Common Reliability Issues - VOLVO D-4204-T5

The D 4204 T5's primary reliability risk is EGR cooler failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles with high mileage or frequent short trips. Volvo internal service data indicates this as a prevalent issue, while owner reports frequently cite AdBlue system faults after 100,000 km. Neglecting oil changes can accelerate timing chain wear, making adherence to service intervals critical.

EGR Cooler Failure
Symptoms: White exhaust smoke (steam), coolant loss without visible external leaks, milky residue under oil filler cap, engine overheating.
Cause: Thermal stress and corrosion causing the internal core of the EGR cooler to crack, allowing coolant to mix with exhaust gas and enter the intake or combustion chamber.
Fix: Replace the EGR cooler assembly with a new OEM unit per service bulletin TSB-VCC-04204-003; inspect and clean the intake manifold and EGR valve for coolant contamination.
AdBlue System Faults
Symptoms: Warning messages for AdBlue level or quality, engine derate (reduced power), vehicle may not restart after shutdown if tank is empty.
Cause: Contaminated AdBlue fluid, faulty NOx sensors, clogged AdBlue injector nozzle, or malfunctioning dosing pump/module.
Fix: Diagnose specific fault code; refill with genuine AdBlue, clean or replace the injector, replace faulty NOx sensors, and reset system adaptations.
Timing Chain Wear (Potential)
Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine (especially on cold start), potential for check engine light with cam/crank correlation codes.
Cause: Wear in the timing chain, guides, or tensioner, often accelerated by infrequent oil changes or use of incorrect oil specification.
Fix: Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides as a complete kit using OEM parts; verify timing marks and oil pressure after installation.
Turbocharger Actuator Failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, excessive black smoke under acceleration, reduced power, potential over-boost or under-boost fault codes.
Cause: Failure of the electronic actuator that controls the turbocharger's wastegate, often due to water ingress or internal electronic fault.
Fix: Replace the turbocharger actuator assembly with a new OEM part; recalibrate the actuator using Volvo diagnostic software.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2015-2019) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VOLVO D-4204-T5

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-4204-T5.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLVO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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