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.

All production years (2015–2019) meet Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/VOLVOS90).
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.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,969 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged & Intercooled | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 225 PS (165 kW) | |
| Torque | 470 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Denso HP4 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 0W-20 (ACEA C5) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
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.
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).
Volvo Technical Service Manual (TP 39990)
Volvo Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. VEP-S90-2016
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/VOLVOS90)
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.
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.
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.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2015-2019) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-4204-T5.
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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