The Volvo B6304T3 is a 2,953 cc, inline‑six turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2011. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing (VVT) and a twin — scroll turbocharger, delivering strong, linear power delivery. Peak output is rated at 224 kW (304 PS) and 440 Nm of torque, making it a potent unit for its era.
Fitted primarily to the second — generation Volvo S80 (2007–2016) and the first — generation XC90 (2002–2014) in its la…
Production years 2007–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2011 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market .
The Volvo B6304T3 is a 2,953 cc inline‑six turbocharged petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and SUVs (2007-2011). It combines variable valve timing with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver smooth, high‑torque performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and some market‑specific Euro 5) standards, it balances power with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,953 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (Twin‑Scroll) | |
Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
Power output | 224 kW (304 PS) | |
Torque | 440 Nm @ 2,100–4,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch ME7.0 electronic direct injection | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre‑2010); Euro 5 depending on market | |
Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Garrett GT2556V twin‑scroll | |
Timing system | Chain‑driven (maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | Volvo VCC 95200377 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 185 kg |
The Volvo B6304T3 was used across Volvo's P2/P3 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the XC90 and specific ECU mapping for the S80-creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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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.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The B6304T3 is a powerful and generally robust engine when properly maintained. Its main weakness is the VVT system on early builds (pre-2009), which is prone to solenoid failure if oil changes are neglected. Later revisions and strict adherence to using the correct 5W-30 oil greatly improve long-term reliability. The timing chain is designed to last the engine's lifetime.
The most frequent issues are VVT solenoid/actuator failures causing rough idle, turbocharger wastegate rattle, PCV system failures leading to oil leaks, and coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing. These are well-documented in Volvo service bulletins and owner reports.
This 3.0L turbo petrol engine was used in the second-generation Volvo S80 (2007-2016) and the first-generation Volvo XC90 (2007-2014) in their T6 trim levels. It was not used in any vehicles outside the Volvo brand.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the B-6304-T3 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
Fuel economy is moderate for its size and power. Expect around 12.5-14.0 L/100km (19-20 mpg UK) in combined city/highway driving for an S80 T6, and 13.5-15.0 L/100km (17-19 mpg UK) for the heavier XC90 T6. Aggressive driving will significantly increase consumption.
Yes. The B6304T3 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail (which is extremely rare as it's designed to be maintenance-free), the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. This underscores the importance of addressing any related noises immediately.
Volvo mandates the use of fully synthetic 5W-30 oil meeting specification VCC 95200377 (or a newer equivalent). Using the correct oil is paramount for protecting the turbocharger bearings and preventing VVT solenoid clogging. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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