The Volvo D 5204 T4 is a 2,400 cc, inline‑five turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features a cast-iron block, aluminium head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a single variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). Output varies by application but typically ranges from 136 kW (184 PS) to 158 kW (215 PS), with torque figures between 400-440 Nm.
Fitted to models such as the S60, V60, XC60, and S80, the D 5204 T4 was engineered for a blend of refined performance, strong mid-range pull, and long-distance cruising capability. Emissions compliance for most markets was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 5 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft lobes and followers, particularly in higher-output variants. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Service Bulletin RTJ‑35872, is often linked to specific oil formulations and extended service intervals under severe conditions. Later production runs incorporated revised camshaft and follower materials to address this.
Production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards for applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/VOLVO-D5).
The Volvo D 5204 T4 is a 2,400 cc inline‑five turbo‑diesel engineered for mid‑size and executive models (2010-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver smooth, linear power and high torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,400 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 136–158 kW (184–215 PS) | |
| Torque | 400–440 Nm @ 1,500–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4 common‑rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Volvo VCC 95200 (SAE 0W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 187 kg |
The inline-five configuration provides a unique, smooth power delivery but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-30) to prevent camshaft wear and turbo issues. Extended idling or frequent short trips can accelerate DPF clogging. The Bosch CP4 fuel pump demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) to prevent internal wear. Pre-2014 models are most susceptible to cam lobe wear; revised components were introduced from MY2014 per Volvo SIB RTJ-35872. EGR coolers should be inspected for leaks during major services.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo VCC 95200 (0W-30) specification (Volvo SIB RTJ-35872). ACEA C3 is insufficient for cam protection.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2010-2018 models for EU/UK markets (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/VOLVO-D5).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Higher outputs require premium diesel meeting EN 590 (Volvo TIS Doc. VD-5204-05).
Volvo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VD-5204-01, VD-5204-05, SIB RTJ-35872
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/VOLVO-D5)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Volvo D 5204 T4 was used across Volvo's P3 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the XC60 and revised cooling for the S80-and from 2014 the facelifted models adopted revised camshaft materials, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover, near the crankshaft pulley (Volvo TIS VD-5204-01). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('5' for 2.4L D5 series). Pre-2014 models have a silver cam cover; post-2014 units may have a black cam cover indicating the updated camshaft design. Critical differentiation from earlier D5252 engines: D 5204 T4 uses a Bosch EDC17C64 ECU. Service parts, particularly camshafts and followers, require production date verification - parts for engines before 01/2014 are incompatible with later units due to material revisions (Volvo SIB RTJ-35872).
The D 5204 T4's primary reliability risk is camshaft and follower wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using non-specified oil or exceeding service intervals. Volvo internal reports from 2015 indicated a notable number of pre-2014 engines required camshaft replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows DPF-related issues are common in vehicles with predominantly urban use. Adherence to oil specification and service schedule is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-5204-T4.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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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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