The Volvo D 5244 T21 is a 2,400 cc, inline‑five turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features a DOHC valvetrain, common rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering robust power outputs from 158 kW (215 PS) up to 180 kW (245 PS) depending on the model year and application. Its five-cylinder layout provides a unique torque delivery and characteristic sound.
Fitted primarily to the second-generation S80, V70, XC70, and XC60 models, the D 5244 T21 was engineered for refined, effortless cruising and strong towing capability. Emissions compliance for most markets was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), enabling adherence to Euro 5 standards throughout its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, potentially leading to belt slippage or failure. This issue, referenced in Volvo Service Bulletin RTJ-35120, is often attributed to bearing degradation under high thermal stress. Volvo addressed this with revised tensioner components for later production units.
All production years (2010–2018) meet Euro 5 standards for relevant markets (EU Type Approval Certificate e13*2005/55*0218).
The Volvo D 5244 T21 is a 2,400 cc inline‑five turbo‑diesel engineered for executive sedans and SUVs (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 premium performance with acceptable fuel economy.
| 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 | 158–180 kW (215–245 PS) | |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 1,500–3,000 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 (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (with tensioner pulley) | |
| Oil type | Volvo VDS-4 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 187 kg |
The five-cylinder configuration offers smooth, tractable power but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km timing belt service intervals to prevent tensioner pulley failure and catastrophic engine damage. Volvo VDS-4 (5W-30) oil is mandatory to protect the high-pressure fuel system and turbocharger bearings. The Bosch CP4 fuel pump requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) to prevent premature wear. Vehicles used for frequent short trips or towing should have the DPF regeneration cycle monitored closely. The revised tensioner pulley (part no. 30732478) should be installed during any belt service per Volvo SIB RTJ-35120.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo VDS-4 (5W-30) specification (Volvo VIDA Doc. 3068745). ACEA C3 is not a sufficient substitute.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2010-2018) (EU Type Approval Certificate e13*2005/55*0218).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Peak output requires premium diesel fuel meeting EN 590 (Volvo VIDA Doc. 3068745).
Volvo VIDA Technical Database: Docs 3068745, 30732478
Volvo Service Information Bulletin (SIB): RTJ-35120
European Commission Type Approval Database: e13*2005/55*0218
ISO International: 1585 Engine Power Test Code
The Volvo D 5244 T21 was used across Volvo's P3 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the XC60 and revised cooling ducts in the S80-with no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front left side of the cylinder block, near the alternator (Volvo VIDA 3068745). The 8th digit of the VIN is '5' for D5 engines. Visually, the engine features a black plastic cam cover with 'D5' embossed and a single Garrett turbocharger on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from earlier D5 engines (D5244T12): The T21 uses a Bosch EDC17C64 ECU and has a revised EGR cooler layout. Service parts, particularly the timing belt kit, are specific to the T21 variant and production date; pre-2013 kits are incompatible with post-2013 engines due to tensioner pulley redesign (Volvo SIB RTJ-35120).
The D 5244 T21's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner pulley failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Volvo internal service data indicates a notable number of failures occurring after 120,000 km, while owner reports frequently cite a distinctive whining noise preceding failure. Neglecting the 15,000 km service interval or using incorrect oil makes timely pulley replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2012-2017) and aggregated European owner association failure reports (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-5244-T21.
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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