The Volvo B 230 ET is a 2,316 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1984 and 1993. It features a cast‑iron block, overhead camshaft (OHC) design with a timing belt, and Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection with a Garrett T3 turbocharger. This forced-induction unit delivered approximately 160–162 hp (119–121 kW) and 177–192 lb‑ft (240–260 Nm) of torque, marking Volvo's first mass-produced turbocharged engine for enhanced performance.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo 700 Series (740, 760, 780) and 900 Series (940, 960) sedans and wagons, the B 230 ET was engineered for spirited driving and high-speed stability. It incorporated emissions technologies like catalytic converters and lambda sensors, achieving Euro 1 compliance for applicable markets by the end of its production.
A documented service concern involves oil starvation to the turbocharger bearing if the engine is shut off while hot, potentially leading to premature turbo failure. This critical maintenance item is emphasized in Volvo Service Bulletin 230ET‑04. The engine was succeeded by the B230FT, which featured an intercooler for increased power and reduced intake temperatures.
Production years 1984–1993: Models from 1988 onward meet Euro 1 standards for applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval not applicable for pre-1992 vehicles).
The Volvo B 230 ET is a 2,316 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and wagons (1984-1993). It combines a robust cast-iron block with a modern OHC valvetrain and timing belt to deliver strong turbocharged performance. Designed to meet emerging emissions regulations, it incorporated catalytic converters for Euro 1 compliance in specific markets from 1988 onward.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,316 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (Garrett T3) | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 160–162 hp (119–121 kW) @ 5,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 177–192 lb-ft (240–260 Nm) @ 3,300 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (market-dependent, 1988+) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.7:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T3 (non-intercooled) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven single overhead camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (mineral or semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg (est.) |
The turbocharger provides strong mid-range torque ideal for overtaking but requires strict adherence to the 30,000-mile timing belt replacement interval and a 30-second idle cooldown after hard driving to prevent turbo bearing damage. SAE 10W-40 oil is recommended. The K-Jetronic system requires precise fuel pressure and warm-up regulator function. Catalytic converter models mandate unleaded fuel. Ignition timing and boost pressure are critical for performance and emissions.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 specification (Volvo Workshop Manual 1988). Modern semi-synthetics are generally acceptable.
Emissions: Formal Euro 1 certification applies only to specific 1988-1993 models for certain markets (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net horsepower standards (post-1972). Figures represent engine output with accessories (Volvo Technical Data Sheet 1985).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1988 Edition)
Volvo Technical Data Sheet (1985)
Volvo Service Bulletin 230ET-04
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Volvo B 230 ET was used across Volvo's 700 Series and early 900 Series platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and wiring harnesses for the 740 versus 760, and variations in exhaust manifolds-and from 1988 the introduction of catalytic converters for specific markets, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the left-hand side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Volvo Workshop Manual 1988). The code will read "B230ET". Visual identification: Cast-iron block, rectangular rocker cover, prominent Garrett T3 turbocharger mounted on the exhaust manifold (driver's side), and Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection components on the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the B230FT: The B230ET lacks an intercooler (no large heat exchanger in front of the radiator), while the B230FT has one. The presence of a timing belt (visible at the front of the engine) differentiates it from earlier B18/B19 pushrod engines.
The B 230 ET's primary reliability risk is turbocharger failure due to improper cooldown procedures or oil starvation, with elevated incidence in high-performance or poorly maintained engines. Volvo service data indicates this was a frequent cause of expensive repairs, while owner club surveys highlight K-Jetronic fuel system issues as a secondary concern. Infrequent maintenance and aggressive driving make adherence to OEM cooldown and service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1984-1993) and Volvo Owners Club failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-230-ET.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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.
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