The Volvo D 5244 T4 is a 2,401 cc, inline‑five turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2005 and 2011. It features a high-pressure common-rail fuel system, a single fixed-geometry turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form, it delivered 120 kW (163 PS) and 340 Nm of torque, providing a smooth, linear power delivery characteristic of Volvo's five-cylinder engines.
Fitted primarily to the S40, V50, and C30 models, the D 5244 T4 was engineered for refined, quiet operation and strong mid-range torque, complementing Volvo's premium compact car character. Emissions compliance for Euro 4 was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF) on later models.
One documented concern involves premature failure of the turbocharger's oil feed and return lines, which can lead to oil starvation and turbo damage. This issue, referenced in Volvo's internal service communications, is often linked to material degradation over time and heat exposure. Volvo addressed this with updated, more heat-resistant hoses for affected production batches.

Production years 2005–2008 meet Euro 4 standards; 2009–2011 models with DPF meet Euro 5 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Volvo D 5244 T4 is a 2,401 cc inline‑five turbo‑diesel engineered for premium compact cars (2005-2011). It combines a high-pressure common-rail injection system with a single fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver smooth, linear torque and quiet operation. Designed to meet stringent Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it integrates a DPF on later models for enhanced environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,401 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 93.2 mm | |
| Power output | 120 kW (163 PS) | |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3 common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2009); Euro 5 (2009–2011 with DPF) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Volvo VCC 95200 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The engine provides smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using Volvo VCC 95200 (5W-30) to protect the turbo and timing chain. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards is mandatory to prevent damage to the Bosch CP3 high-pressure fuel pump. The DPF system on 2009+ models requires periodic regeneration; ignoring warnings can lead to reduced power. Proactive replacement of the turbo oil feed/return lines per Volvo service bulletin is recommended for high-mileage examples.
Oil Specs: Requires Volvo VCC 95200 (5W-30) specification (Volvo Owner's Manual 2007).
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2005-2008 models; Euro 5 for 2009-2011 models with DPF (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across specified fuel quality (Volvo TIS Doc. VTI-77800).
Volvo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VTI-77543, VTI-77800
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
Volvo EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue)
The Volvo D 5244 T4 was used across Volvo's P1 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts for the C30 coupe-creating specific service procedures. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code on a metal plaque riveted to the cylinder head cover, near the front of the engine (Volvo TIS VTI-77001). The 8th digit of the VIN is '5' for the D5 engine family. Visually, it features a black plastic engine cover with 'D5' branding. Critical differentiation from the D 5244 T5 (136 kW): The T4 has a lower power output and may lack the DPF on pre-2009 models. Service parts, particularly for the turbo and emissions systems, are specific to the D5244T4 variant and model year.
The D 5244 T4's primary reliability risk is turbocharger failure due to degraded oil feed/return lines, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or heat-stressed engines. Volvo internal service data indicates a notable number of replacements under warranty for early builds, while adherence to maintenance schedules significantly reduces risk. Ignoring DPF warnings on later models can also lead to costly repairs.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2005-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO D-5244-T4.
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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