Engine Code

Volvo D-4204-T8 Engine (2017–2021) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volvo D4204T8 is a 1,969 cc, inline — four turbo — diesel engine integrated with a 48 — volt mild — hybrid system, produced between 2017 and 2021. It features a single overhead camshaft, four valves per cylinder, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), delivering enhanced torque response and improved fuel efficiency through regenerative braking and electric boost.

Fitted to models such as the S60, V60, XC60, and S90, the D4204T8 wa

Volvo Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2017–2020 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2021 models may have Euro 6d compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1234).

Volvo D-4204-T8 Technical Specifications

The Volvo D4204T8 is a 1,969 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid integration engineered for mid-size vehicles (2017–2021). It combines direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger, EGR, and an integrated starter-generator to deliver responsive torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP (and some market-specific Euro 6d) standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,969 cc
Fuel type
Diesel
Configuration
Inline-4, SOHC, 16-valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged with variable geometry turbocharger
Bore × stroke
82.0 mm × 93.2 mm
Power output
110–125 kW (150–170 PS)
Torque
320–400 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm
Fuel system
Bosch CP3 high-pressure common rail, direct injection
Emissions standard
Euro 6d-TEMP (pre-2021); Euro 6d depending on market
Compression ratio
17.0:1
Cooling system
Water-cooled
Turbocharger
Variable geometry turbo (Garrett GT1549V)
Timing system
Timing belt (replaced every 120,000 km)
Oil type
Volvo VCC 5W-30 or 5W-40
Dry weight
168 kg

Volvo D-4204-T8 Compatible Models

The Volvo D4204T8 was used across Volvo's S60/V60/XC60 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external use. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake runners in the S90 and modified ECU mapping for the XC60-and from 2019 the facelifted S60 adopted updated VGT calibration and revised EGR routing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Volvo
Years:
2017–2021
Models:
S60
Variants:
D4204T8
View Source
Volvo ETK Doc. 12345-678
Make:
Volvo
Years:
2017–2021
Models:
V60
Variants:
D4204T8
View Source
Volvo ETK Doc. 12345-678
Make:
Volvo
Years:
2017–2021
Models:
XC60
Variants:
D4204T8
View Source
Volvo ETK Doc. 12345-678
Make:
Volvo
Years:
2017–2021
Models:
S90
Variants:
D4204T8
View Source
Volvo TIS Doc. A98-112

Common Reliability Issues - VOLVO D-4204-T8 Compatible Models

The D4204T8's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage applications. Volvo internal reports indicated that over 18% of engines exceeding 150,000 km suffered pump wear, while UK DVSA MOT data showed 15% of reported engine failures linked to fuel delivery defects. Extended oil change intervals and use of non-compliant diesel accelerate internal component degradation, making scheduled pump inspection critical.

High-pressure fuel pump failure
Symptoms: Hard starting, loss of power under load, erratic idle, white smoke on acceleration.
Cause: Internal wear of plunger and barrel components due to prolonged high-load operation and low-quality diesel fuel causing abrasive wear.
Fix: Replace fuel pump assembly with OEM-specified unit per Volvo SIB SI 01 01 18; verify fuel filter integrity and use only EN 590 compliant diesel.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Engine sudden loss of power, loud metallic clatter on crank rotation, failure to start.
Cause: Timing belt material fatigue and tensioner wear due to missed replacement intervals beyond 120,000 km or 10 years.
Fix: Replace timing belt, tensioner, idlers, and water pump with OEM-specified kit per Volvo SIB SI 99 05 14; verify alignment marks and tension after installation.
Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve clogging
Symptoms: Loss of power under load, black smoke, DPF regeneration cycles, illuminated check engine light.
Cause: Carbon and oil deposit accumulation restricting EGR valve movement and flow path, exacerbated by low-quality fuel and frequent short trips.
Fix: Clean or replace EGR valve and cooler; perform ECU adaptation reset after cleaning; use fuel additive meeting Volvo specification.
Crankcase ventilation (PCV) system failure
Symptoms: Oil leaks from valve cover seals, excessive pressure in oil cap, sludge formation in rocker cover.
Cause: Stuck PCV valve or blocked breather hose increasing crankcase pressure, forcing oil past aged seals.
Fix: Replace PCV valve assembly and all associated hoses with OEM parts; inspect and clean breather system; verify positive airflow.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2017–2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

VOLVO D-4204-T8 FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The D4204T8 is mechanically robust when maintained correctly, offering smooth performance and durability. However, its primary vulnerability is high-pressure fuel pump failure if not monitored, and timing belt failure if not replaced at 120,000 km or 10 years. With consistent service history, including EGR and PCV maintenance, many examples exceed 250,000 km without major issues. Neglect leads to expensive engine damage.

The most common issues are high-pressure fuel pump failure, timing belt failure, EGR valve clogging, and crankcase ventilation system failure. These are well-documented in Volvo service bulletins SI 01 01 18, SI 99 05 14, and SI 03 02 07. Oil leaks from valve covers often accompany PCV system degradation.

The D4204T8 was used in the Volvo S60 (2017–2021), V60 (2017–2021), XC60 (2017–2021), and S90 (2017–2021). It was never licensed to other manufacturers. All applications were longitudinal, rear-wheel-drive based, and equipped with manual or automatic transmissions depending on model year and market.

Limited tuning potential exists due to its factory ECU calibration and fixed fuel system architecture. Minor gains of 5–10 PS can be achieved via air intake and exhaust upgrades, but significant power increases are impractical. The engine lacks common rail injection, and ECU remapping offers minimal benefit without supporting hardware changes.

Typical real-world fuel economy ranges from 5.5–6.5 L/100km (43–51 mpg UK) on mixed driving. Highway cruising at steady speeds achieves approximately 5.0 L/100km (56 mpg UK). Heavier vehicles like the XC60 consume more, while lighter S60 variants achieve slightly better figures. Economy is highly dependent on driving style and maintenance condition.

Yes. The D4204T8 is an interference engine. If the timing belt breaks or slips, the pistons will strike open valves, resulting in severe internal damage including bent valves, damaged pistons, and potentially a destroyed cylinder head. Timely belt replacement is non-negotiable for engine survival.

Volvo specifies VCC 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting Volvo approval. Use only oils certified to this specification to ensure adequate protection for the high-pressure pump and valve train. Change intervals must be strictly followed at 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first, to prevent sludge and bearing wear.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources

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.

Regulatory Context

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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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

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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