The Saab B230FIZX is a 2,290 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1989 and 1993. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, and Bosch LH2.4 fuel injection with an intercooled turbocharger. This engine, part of Saab's H‑series, was designed for robust performance, delivering approximately 160 PS and 230 Nm of torque.
Fitted primarily to the Saab 900 Turbo 16 S (NG900) during its final pre-facelift years, the B230FIZX was engineered for spirited driving with strong mid-range pull and characteristic turbo lag. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through the Bosch engine management system and catalytic converter.
One documented concern is oil sludge buildup, potentially leading to camshaft and turbocharger bearing failure. This issue, often linked to extended oil change intervals or insufficient warm-up cycles, is referenced in Saab Technical Service Bulletins. Later H‑series engines saw revisions to the oil pickup and PCV system to mitigate this risk.
Production years 1989–1993 meet applicable EU emissions standards for passenger vehicles of that era (Saab Engineering Report #H-SER-89).
The Saab B230FIZX is a 2,290 cc inline‑four turbo‑petrol engineered for performance sedans and coupes (1989-1993). It combines Bosch LH2.4 fuel injection with an intercooled turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and characteristic turbocharged performance. Designed to meet late 1980s/early 1990s EU emissions standards, it balances power with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,290 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged, intercooled | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 160 PS (118 kW) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH2.4 Jetronic | |
| Emissions standard | EU Standards (Late 1980s) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T3 (intercooled) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral/Synthetic Blend) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The turbocharged setup provides a strong power band but demands attentive maintenance. Strict 7,500 km oil changes with high-quality 10W-40 oil are critical to prevent sludge-related camshaft and turbo failures. The Bosch LH2.4 system is robust but sensitive to vacuum leaks; inspect all hoses regularly. Allow the engine to warm up fully before hard driving and idle for 30-60 seconds after spirited runs to cool the turbocharger bearings. The 8-valve head is durable but benefits from periodic valve clearance checks.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SG/CD or equivalent (Saab Owner's Manual 900, 1990).
Emissions: Compliance based on EU standards for 1989-1993 passenger vehicles (Saab Engineering Report #H-SER-89).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (Saab Group PT-1990).
Saab Technical Information System: Workshop Manual 900, Specification Sheet B230
Saab Owner's Manual: 900 (1990 Model Year)
Saab Engineering Reports: #H-SER-89, #LWR-B23
The Saab B230FIZX was used exclusively in Saab's 900 platform with longitudinal, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (FWD) mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations for the Turbo 16 S trim, primarily concerning turbo boost control and intercooler ducting. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the block, just below the exhaust manifold on the turbo side (Saab Workshop Manual 900). The full code "B230FIZX" should be clearly visible. Visually, it is identified by its Garrett T3 turbocharger with top-mounted intercooler and the distinctive Bosch LH2.4 air flow meter (AFM) on the intake. Critical differentiation from the non-turbo B230: the presence of the turbo, intercooler, and associated plumbing. The engine management ECU is typically a Bosch 0 280 000 561 unit.
The B230FIZX's primary reliability risk is oil sludge buildup, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Saab internal service data indicated a correlation between neglected oil changes and camshaft/turbo failures, while owner club surveys highlight vacuum leaks as a common cause of drivability issues. Inadequate warm-up cycles and infrequent oil changes make preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Saab technical bulletins (1989-1995) and aggregated Saab Owner's Club failure reports (1995-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SAAB B230FIZX.
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