The Volvo D4204T6 is a 1,969 cc, inline‑four twin‑turbo diesel engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It features a DOHC 16-valve architecture with sequential twin-turbocharging and high-pressure common rail direct injection. In its standard tune, it produced 173 kW (235 PS) and 480 Nm of torque, offering exceptional low-end response and strong, sustained power.
Fitted primarily to the second-generation XC90 and S90/V90 models, the D4204T6 was engineered for dynamic, premium performance and effortless overtaking. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue, aligning with Euro 6c standards.
One documented service concern involves the high-pressure fuel pump, which can develop internal wear leading to pressure fluctuations and misfires. This issue, referenced in Volvo service documentation, is often linked to fuel contamination or extended service intervals. Revised pump components and updated software were introduced to mitigate the problem.
Production years 2016–2020 meet Euro 6c standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/VOLVO-D42T6).
The Volvo D4204T6 is a 1,969 cc inline‑four twin-turbo diesel engineered for premium SUVs and estates (2016-2020). It combines sequential twin-turbocharging with common-rail direct injection to deliver exceptional low-RPM torque and seamless power delivery. Designed to meet stringent Euro 6c standards, it balances high performance with low emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,969 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 173 kW (235 PS) @ 4,250 rpm | |
| Torque | 480 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch high-pressure common rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6c | |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Sequential twin-turbo (Honeywell HP + LP units) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Volvo VCC 95200377 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 172 kg |
The sequential twin-turbo system provides near-instant throttle response and strong, sustained power but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil changes with the specified 0W-20 oil to protect the turbos and emissions systems. The Bosch common-rail system requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) to prevent injector and high-pressure pump wear. The high-pressure fuel pump is a known wear item; symptoms like misfires or rough running warrant inspection per Volvo SIB 02-013/17. Using contaminated fuel accelerates failure.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo specification VCC 95200377 (SAE 0W-20) (Volvo Owner's Manual MY2017).
Emissions: Euro 6c certification applies to all 2016–2020 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/VOLVO-D42T6).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Volvo TIS Doc. VCC-11237).
Volvo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VCC-11237, VCC-11570
Volvo Service Information Bulletins (SIB): 02-013/17
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/VOLVO-D42T6)
The Volvo D4204T6 was used across Volvo's SPA platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the XC90 for enhanced refinement. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front left side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Volvo TIS VCC-11237). The 8th digit of the VIN is '5' for D5 (D4204T6) engines. Visually, the engine features a distinctive black plastic intake manifold with "D5" embossed on the cover. Critical differentiation from the lower-output D4204T: The D4204T6 produces 235 PS and 480 Nm, requiring specific ECU mapping and potentially different turbo actuator calibration. Service parts for the fuel system are specific to this high-output variant.
The D4204T6's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence linked to fuel quality or extended service intervals. Volvo service data indicates a notable number of replacements were performed, while owner reports frequently cite misfires and rough running. Contaminated or low-quality diesel accelerates internal pump wear, making fuel source and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2016-2020) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-4204-T6.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VOLVO Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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