Volvo B-4204-T26 Engine (2016–2019) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volvo B 4204 T26 is a 1,969 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2019. It features an aluminium block and head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and direct fuel injection. In standard form, it delivered 235 kW (320 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, providing high performance through advanced turbocharging and engine management.

Fitted exclusively to the S60 Polestar and V60 Polestar during this period, the B 4204 T26 was engineered for track —…

Volvo Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2016–2019 meet Euro 6 standards .

Volvo B-4204-T26 Technical Specifications

The Volvo B 4204 T26 is a 1,969 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high-performance sedans and wagons (2016-2019). It combines an aluminium block with DOHC and direct injection to deliver track-focused, responsive performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances extreme specific output with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,969 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Bore × stroke
87.5 mm × 81.0 mm
Power output
235 kW (320 PS) @ 5,700 rpm
Torque
400 Nm @ 2,200–5,400 rpm
Fuel system
Direct injection (Volvo VEP system)
Emissions standard
Euro 6
Compression ratio
9.5:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Single twin-scroll turbocharger (Garrett)
Timing system
Chain-driven camshafts
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
135 kg

Volvo B-4204-T26 Compatible Models

The Volvo B 4204 T26 was used exclusively across Volvo's Polestar performance variants with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts and upgraded cooling systems in both sedan and wagon body styles. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Volvo
Years:
2016–2019
Models:
S60 Polestar
Variants:
Polestar
View Source
Volvo EPC Archive Doc. VEP-2017
Make:
Volvo
Years:
2016–2019
Models:
V60 Polestar
Variants:
Polestar
View Source
Volvo V60 Production Records

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Common Reliability Issues - VOLVO B-4204-T26 Compatible Models

Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.

High-pressure fuel pump failure
Symptoms: Engine stuttering or cutting out under load, difficulty starting, check engine light with fuel pressure codes, complete engine shutdown.
Cause: Internal wear or contamination in the high-pressure fuel pump, often caused by fuel contamination or extended service intervals.
Fix: Replace high-pressure fuel pump with updated OEM part (P/N 31489012) per Volvo SB-17-089; flush fuel system and use only high-quality fuel.
Turbocharger heat soak and oil coking
Symptoms: Reduced boost pressure, turbo lag, oil leaks from turbo seals, blue smoke from exhaust.
Cause: Insufficient cool-down after high-load operation leading to oil coking in turbo bearings and seals.
Fix: Allow engine to idle for 1-2 minutes after spirited driving; ensure correct 0W-20 oil is used and changed at 10,000 km intervals.
Direct injection carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation under acceleration, decreased fuel economy, check engine light with misfire codes.
Cause: Carbon deposits accumulating on intake valves and ports due to lack of fuel washing in direct injection systems.
Fix: Perform walnut shell blasting or chemical intake cleaning every 40,000 km; use Top Tier fuel to help mitigate buildup.
Oil leaks from valve cover and turbo connections
Symptoms: Oil smell, drips under engine, residue around valve cover and turbocharger inlet/outlet pipes.
Cause: Age-hardened valve cover gasket and degraded turbocharger oil feed/return line seals under high thermal stress.
Fix: Replace valve cover gasket and turbo oil line seals with OEM parts; ensure correct torque on all fasteners.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (2016-2019) and Volvo Polestar Owners Club failure surveys (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

VOLVO B-4204-T26 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The B 4204 T26 offers exceptional performance but requires meticulous maintenance. The primary concern is the high-pressure fuel pump, addressed in SB-17-089. With timely pump replacement, correct 0W-20 oil changes every 10,000 km, and proper turbo cool-down procedures, the engine can be reliable long-term.

The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump failure (SB-17-089), turbocharger oil coking from heat soak, and direct injection carbon buildup. Oil leaks from the valve cover and turbo connections are also common under high-stress conditions.

The B 4204 T26 was used exclusively in the Volvo S60 Polestar (2016-2019) and V60 Polestar (2016-2019) models. It was the high-performance engine developed by Polestar, producing 320 PS and 400 Nm of torque.

Yes, but with caution. The B 4204 T26 is already highly tuned from the factory. Further ECU remapping can yield gains of 20-30 kW, but requires supporting modifications like upgraded intercooler and downpipe. Always ensure the fuel pump and turbo are in excellent condition before tuning.

Fuel economy is modest given its performance. Expect around 11.0-13.0 L/100km (22-26 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a well-maintained S60 Polestar. Highway cruising can yield closer to 8.5 L/100km (33 mpg UK). Economy is heavily dependent on driving style.

Yes. The Volvo B 4204 T26 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump, the pistons will contact the valves, causing severe internal engine damage. This makes adherence to timing chain inspection critical.

Volvo specifies SAE 0W-20 oil meeting Volvo VCC RBS0-2AE02 specification. This low-viscosity oil is crucial for protecting the turbocharger bearings and high-pressure fuel pump. Using the correct oil is non-negotiable for engine longevity, especially under high-performance conditions.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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Primary Sources

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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