The Volvo B230F is a 2,316 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1995. It features a cast‑iron block, single overhead camshaft (SOHC) driven by a timing belt, and Bosch LH‑Jetronic electronic fuel injection. This unit delivered 114 bhp (85 kW) and 18.7 kgf·m (183 Nm) of torque, offering a blend of smooth power delivery and proven reliability.
Fitted primarily to the 740 and 940 Series sedans and wagons, the B230F was engineered for comfortable, dependable transportation with an emphasis on emissions compliance and drivability. Its character is defined by linear, predictable power and strong low-to-mid range torque. To meet evolving regulations, it incorporated a catalytic converter and lambda sensor, allowing compliance with Euro 1 emissions standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the crankshaft position sensor, which can lead to sudden engine stalling or no-start conditions. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Service Bulletin 3‑87, is often linked to heat degradation of the sensor's internal components. In 1990, Volvo introduced a revised, more heat-resistant sensor to address this weakness.
Production years 1985–1992 meet Euro 1 standards; 1993–1995 models may have Euro 2 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval applicable for post-1992 UK imports).
The Volvo B230F is a 2,316 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and wagons (1985-1995). It combines a single overhead camshaft with Bosch LH-Jetronic electronic fuel injection to deliver smooth, predictable power and meet emissions regulations. Designed to comply with Euro 1 (and later Euro 2) standards, it prioritizes durability and straightforward maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,316 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 114 bhp (85 kW) @ 5,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 183 Nm (18.7 kgf·m) @ 2,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1985-1992); Euro 2 (1993-1995, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 175 kg (approx.) |
The SOHC design provides smooth, predictable power but requires strict adherence to the 60,000-mile timing belt replacement interval to prevent failure. The Bosch LH-Jetronic system is generally reliable but sensitive to faulty sensors, particularly the crankshaft position sensor. Using the specified 10W-40 oil is critical. Pre-1990 engines should have the crankshaft position sensor upgraded per Volvo SB 3-87 to prevent sudden stalling.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SF/CC specification (Volvo Workshop Manual 1988). Modern equivalents are acceptable.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 1 (1985-1992) and Euro 2 (1993-1995, market-dependent) standards (EU Directive 88/77/EEC, 91/542/EEC).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards (with accessories). Figures represent maximum output at the crankshaft (Volvo TDS-230F).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1988 Edition)
Volvo Technical Data Sheet (TDS-230F)
Volvo Service Bulletin Archive (SB 3-87)
EU Directives 88/77/EEC, 91/542/EEC
The Volvo B230F was used across Volvo's 740/940 Series platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and accessory brackets between sedan and wagon-and from 1990 the crankshaft position sensor was revised, creating a key service part distinction. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the left-hand side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Volvo Workshop Manual 1988). The code will read "B230F". Visual identification: Cast iron block, black plastic timing belt cover, Bosch LH-Jetronic ECU and airflow meter. Differentiate from the B230E by its lower compression ratio (9.8:1 vs 10.3:1) and lower power output. Pre-1990 engines have a grey crankshaft position sensor; post-1990 units have a black, revised sensor.
The B230F's primary reliability risk is crankshaft position sensor failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or heat-stressed vehicles. Volvo service bulletins from the era highlight this as a common cause of sudden stalling, while aggregated owner data consistently shows that replacing the sensor with the revised part is a highly effective preventative measure for long-term drivability.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1985-1995) and aggregated data from Volvo Owners Club technical forums (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-230-F.
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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