The Volvo B4164S3 is a 1,587 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 1998. It features a cast iron block, aluminum head, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) driven by a timing belt. This compact and efficient engine was engineered for Volvo's entry — level models, balancing fuel economy with adequate power for urban driving.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo S40 and V40 (first generation), the B4164S3 was designed for responsive, economic…
Production years 1995–1998 meet Euro 2 emissions standards for registered imports).
The Volvo B4164S3 is a 1,587 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and wagons (1995-1998). It combines a dual overhead camshaft design with Bosch Motronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, efficient power for daily commuting. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and low running costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,587 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
Power output | 74 kW (100 PS) | |
Torque | 140 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 4.3 electronic fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Toothed belt (interference design) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 125 kg |
The Volvo B4164S3 was used across Volvo's S40/V40 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received specific ECU calibrations for different trim levels, creating minor power variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Engine Finders UK Ltd, which operates EngineCode.uk, can pass your enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. The service is for vehicles in the United Kingdom, with UK delivery or fitting. This is a commercially connected service, and sending an enquiry does not confirm diagnosis or compatibility.
Diagnostic reminder: If a technician has recommended replacing the engine, you can send an enquiry to engine suppliers in the UK. Confirm the diagnosis first: an engine-code record does not diagnose a fault.
The B4164S3's primary reliability risk is coolant leakage from the plastic intake manifold, which can lead to hydrolock or internal corrosion if coolant enters the cylinders. Volvo service data from the mid-1990s indicates this was a frequent cause of warranty claims, particularly in vehicles subjected to frequent thermal cycling. Strict adherence to the 80,000 km timing belt schedule is also critical to prevent interference engine damage.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1995-1998) and workshop manuals (1995-1997). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The B4164S3 is generally reliable long-term, but its plastic intake manifold is a critical failure point that must be monitored or replaced preventatively. With meticulous care, including timely replacement of the timing belt and addressing the intake manifold issue, it can provide many years of dependable service.
The most critical issue is coolant leaks from the plastic intake manifold. Other common problems include timing belt failure if not replaced on schedule, malfunctioning Idle Air Control valves causing idle issues, and oil leaks from camshaft seals. These are all well-documented in Volvo's service literature.
The B4164S3 was used in the first-generation Volvo S40 sedan and V40 wagon from their launch in 1995 until 1998. It was the base petrol engine for these compact models, offering a balance of economy and adequate performance.
Yes, modest power gains are possible. Common upgrades include fitting a performance exhaust system, a modified air intake, and reprogramming the ECU. More significant gains are limited by the engine's modest displacement and naturally aspirated design, but it responds well to basic bolt-on modifications.
Fuel economy is very good for its era. Expect around 7.5-8.5 L/100km (33-37 mpg UK) in mixed driving for an S40 or V40. Economy is heavily influenced by driving style, vehicle condition, and tire pressure.
Yes. The Volvo B4164S3 is an interference engine. If the timing belt fails, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing severe internal damage that requires a major engine rebuild. This makes the 80,000 km timing belt replacement schedule absolutely critical.
Volvo originally specified SAE 5W-30 semi-synthetic oil. A good quality 5W-30 that meets ACEA A3/B3 or equivalent specifications is perfectly suitable. Modern full-synthetic 5W-30 oils meeting these specs can also be used for enhanced protection and longevity.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
EngineCode.uk is operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. It provides engine-reference information and an optional commercial enquiry service. It is not an official manufacturer website. Check the record's sources and confirm vehicle-specific details before relying on it for parts, repairs or replacement.
Our editorial standard prioritises relevant manufacturer documentation and official regulatory sources. The sources and verification status for a record should be checked alongside the data.
A statement is not verified merely because a source is listed. Where supporting evidence is missing or conflicting, the record should identify that limitation. Please report unsupported or inconsistent information.
Transparency in gaps
A missing or unverified value does not mean the manufacturer has withheld it. We distinguish information not yet verified, information not available to us, and information explicitly not disclosed by the source.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Records are subject to review and correction. Source links, dates and verification notes should be read with the technical information. Our Editorial and Sourcing Policy explains our standards and review process.
Found an error or missing source? Report a problem with this page. Include the field or statement concerned and a supporting source if available. You can also email corrections@enginecode.uk.
Copyright and permissions
Images and other material may be protected by copyright. Attribution does not by itself grant permission to reuse material. If you believe material on this site infringes your rights, contact copyrights@enginecode.uk with the page URL and details of your claim. We will review the material and take appropriate action.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
Our Privacy Policy explains how Engine Finders UK Ltd uses information from visits, vehicle lookups, enquiries and messages. Our Cookie Policy explains cookies and similar technologies and how to change your choices.
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
Ownership and commercial services
EngineCode.uk is owned and operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. Alongside our reference content, we offer an optional replacement-engine enquiry service through Engine Finders and may identify relevant services provided by businesses connected with us. These commercial connections are disclosed. Using an enquiry service is not required to read our reference content.
Engine Finders UK Ltd operates this website. Our optional enquiry service has a commercial purpose. Our Ownership and Commercial Disclosure explains the relationship between the reference website and that service. Participating suppliers pay a fee or subscription to participate on the network and receive quote requests.
Use this record as a starting point for identification. Specifications and vehicle applications may contain errors or omissions. Confirm the exact engine variant and compatibility using vehicle-specific documentation and a qualified supplier or technician.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.