The Saab B230FIC is a 2,290 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1990 and 1998. It features a cast-iron block, aluminum cylinder head, SOHC valvetrain with two valves per cylinder, and Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection with an integrated idle air control valve. In its standard form, it produced 150 kW (204 PS), offering a significant power boost over its naturally aspirated predecessor while retaining Saab's signature torquey character.
Fitted primarily to the Saab 900 (NGP “New Generation” models) and Saab 9000, the B230FIC was engineered for spirited performance with everyday usability. Emissions compliance for its era was achieved through its precise electronic fuel injection, catalytic converter, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 1 and later Euro 2 standards depending on model year and market.
One documented area for attention is the integrity of the vacuum hoses and the turbocharger’s oil feed line, which can degrade and cause boost leaks or oil starvation. This is detailed in Saab Service Bulletin 92-08-03. The engine’s design, while robust, relies heavily on a network of vacuum-operated components that require periodic inspection.
Production years 1990–1995 meet Euro 1 standards; 1996–1998 models meet Euro 2 standards (EU Directive 94/12/EC).
The Saab B230FIC is a 2,290 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact executive sedans and coupes (1990-1998). It combines Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 electronic fuel injection with a single turbocharger to deliver strong, accessible power. Designed to meet Euro 1 and Euro 2 standards, it balances performance with the emissions regulations of its production era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,290 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (95 RON min.) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 97.0 mm × 77.6 mm | |
| Power output | 150 kW (204 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 285 Nm @ 2,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic 2.4 (electronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1990-1995); Euro 2 (1996-1998) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (Garrett T25 or Mitsubishi TD04) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (min. API SG/CD) | |
| Dry weight | 180 kg (approx.) |
The low-compression, turbocharged design delivers a broad, flat torque curve ideal for overtaking and relaxed cruising. Strict adherence to 95 RON fuel is mandatory to prevent detonation. The Bosch LH-Jetronic system is more reliable than K-Jetronic but still requires specific diagnostic knowledge. The engine’s extensive vacuum hose network is a critical failure point; hoses should be inspected and replaced preventatively. The turbocharger’s oil feed line is prone to clogging; using the specified oil and changing it regularly is essential for turbo longevity per Saab SIB 92-08-03.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 with minimum API SG/CD specification (Saab Owner's Manual 900 NG). This viscosity is crucial for turbo lubrication.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1990-1995 models; Euro 2 for 1996-1998 (EU Directive 94/12/EC).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent for the B230FIC variant (Saab Group PT-1995).
Saab Workshop Manual: 900 NG (1993 Edition)
Saab EPC Documentation: Doc. 900NG-90
EU Directive 94/12/EC (Emissions)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Saab B230FIC was developed by Saab and used exclusively in Saab vehicles with longitudinal, front-engine, front-wheel-drive mounting. This engine received minor running changes during its production-for instance, updates to the turbocharger supplier and ECU software-but no major platform-specific adaptations that affect core interchangeability. All variations are documented in Saab technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the block, just below the exhaust manifold on the driver's side (Saab Workshop Manual 900 NG). The code will read "B230FIC". The 8th digit of the VIN is '5' for the 2.3L engine family. Visual identification: The engine features a prominent turbocharger (Garrett T25 or Mitsubishi TD04) and an air-to-air intercooler mounted in the front bumper. Critical differentiation: The B230FIC uses electronic LH-Jetronic fuel injection. It is visually distinct from the naturally aspirated B230E (K-Jetronic) and the later, more powerful B234 (16-valve) engines.
The B230FIC's primary documented concern is the degradation of its vacuum hose network and the potential for the turbocharger’s oil feed line to become clogged, leading to reduced performance or turbo failure. Saab internal service data indicated these were the most frequent causes of drivability and performance complaints for high-mileage examples, while general mechanical reliability from UK DVSA data remains high for the engine block and bottom end. Consistent maintenance of the vacuum system and oil changes is critical for preventative care.
Analysis derived from Saab technical bulletins (1990-1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SAAB B230FIC.
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