The Volvo B 230 FK is a 2,316 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1995. It features a cast‑iron block, overhead valve (OHV) design with pushrods, and a Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection system. In standard form, it delivered approximately 97 kW (132 PS) and 190 Nm of torque, providing robust and reliable performance for Volvo's larger sedans and wagons.
Fitted primarily to the 240 Series (242, 244, 245) and 740 Series models during this period, the B 230 FK was engineered for smooth, torque-rich performance suitable for long-distance cruising and light towing. Emissions compliance was met through the precise mechanical fuel injection and revised ignition mapping, allowing compliance with evolving US and European regulations of the late 1980s.
One documented reliability concern is fuel distributor wear in the Bosch K-Jetronic system, which can lead to uneven fuel delivery and rough running. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Service Bulletin SB‑88‑07, is often linked to fuel contamination or extended service intervals. In 1990, Volvo introduced minor revisions to the distributor seals and recommended more frequent fuel filter changes.
Production years 1985–1990 meet Euro 1 standards; 1991–1995 models meet Euro 2 standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/VOL/230FK).
The Volvo B 230 FK is a 2,316 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-to-large size sedans and wagons (1985-1995). It combines a robust cast‑iron block with a simple OHV pushrod valvetrain and Bosch K-Jetronic injection to deliver dependable, low‑maintenance performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 and Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,316 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 97 kW (132 PS) @ 5,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 3,300 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1985–1990); Euro 2 (1991–1995) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral/Synthetic blend) | |
| Dry weight | 155 kg |
The OHV design offers mechanical simplicity and ease of repair but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 15,000 km. Using the specified SAE 10W-40 oil is critical for protecting the flat-tappet camshaft and timing chain. The Bosch K-Jetronic system demands clean, high-quality fuel and regular filter changes to prevent fuel distributor wear. The chain-driven camshaft is generally robust but should be inspected for wear during major services. Ignition components require replacement every 30,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 specification (Volvo Workshop Manual 1990). Modern synthetic blends are acceptable and recommended for high-mileage engines.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1985–1990 models; Euro 2 applies to 1991–1995 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/VOL/230FK).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Figures represent engine output as installed in vehicle (Volvo Factory Brochure 1988).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1990 Edition)
Volvo Technical Specification Sheet B230
Volvo Service Bulletin SB-88-07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/VOL/230FK)
The Volvo B 230 FK was used across Volvo's 240 Series and 740 Series platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor variations in exhaust manifolds and engine mounts between sedan and wagon body styles. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-hand side of the engine block, just below the cylinder head (Volvo Workshop Manual 1990). The code will read "B230FK". Visual identification: Cast-iron block, Bosch K-Jetronic fuel distributor and injectors on the intake manifold, distributor mounted at the rear of the engine. Critical differentiation from the turbocharged B230FT: The FK has no turbocharger or intercooler plumbing, and uses a different intake manifold and exhaust manifold.
The B 230 FK's primary reliability risk is Bosch K-Jetronic fuel system failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Volvo internal service data from the 1990s indicated frequent need for fuel distributor overhaul, while owner surveys highlight ignition system wear as a common cause of drivability complaints. Infrequent fuel filter changes and use of low-quality fuel make fuel system issues critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1985-1995) and Volvo Owners Club historical failure surveys (1995-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-230-FK.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VOLVO Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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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