v40 2003 1.8 (nON-gdi) Engine replacement

Service 2016 · Post by **Service 2016** » 17 Sep 2016, 06:42

Hi, I am examining the possibility of replacing my 2003 1.8 (Non-GDI) v40 engine B4184S2 with a 2.0 T engine B4204T3.

The replacement engine comes with all LOOM & ECU. In theory, is this possible? I would not undertake the job myself. But,I would employ a mechanic to take on the job for me.

Please let me know. Here's hoping.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 17 Sep 2016, 07:33

I think it is possible if it also comes with the turbo, intercooler and related hoses as well as the loom and ECU you mention. Anything is possible, but be aware that from 2001 on much became computerized so there is a possibility that things like the dash, displays, car locking & ignition, radio/CD, A/C and even window functioning may have to paired or "married" to the ECU. Replacing the ECU in your car might necessitate software downloads from the dealer to make your V40 operational. It would be a good idea to look into this BEFORE going to all the trouble of going through an engine replacement.

You did not post why you want to replace the engine...did it have trouble or are you just wanting a faster car? If the later, then my suggestion is to sell the V40 you have and buy a faster turbo Volvo. If it is because of a bad engine, it may still be a better deal in the long run to do the same thing- or fix up the V40 with a second B4184S2 engine where nothing else has to be replaced except for the engine mounts and a few related items or repair the engine while it's in the car- both would still be a task that I do not look forward to doing.

Good luck and I hope you post back to let us know what you found out about the ECU/pairing issue and what you decided to do.

-MIJ

Service 2016 · Post by **Service 2016** » 17 Sep 2016, 10:19

Hi MJ, thank you for your reply; to be honest: I would like a faster car. I have previously owned an S60 T and I miss the kick down and acceleration. I got stuck behind a slow car today in my 1.8 and went for a foot down overtake, but forgot about the lack of power. I ended up side by side with the vehicle I was planning on overtaking and thought: hmm, I am not going to make it. I had to slow down and drop in behind him. In my Turbo S60, I would have been pass and away and in a few seconds.

In my dream, I could purchase the 2.0 T V40 engine I have seen for sale, and pay a Mechanic a day's work to drop it into my current car. Following your detailed reply, you're right: the ECU could be a problem as a dealer would probably want a lot of money to make it functional. I will look into the ECU/Pairing issue and let you know.