The Volvo B 5234 FT is a 2,319 cc, inline‑five petrol engine produced between 1994 and 1998. It features a cast‑iron block, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a Garrett T25 turbocharger with an air-to-air intercooler. This forced-induction unit delivered approximately 225 hp (168 kW) and 221 lb‑ft (300 Nm) of torque, offering high performance for Volvo's flagship models.
Fitted primarily to the Volvo 850 T-5R and 850 R models, the B 5234 FT was engineered for exhilarating, track-capable performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic fuel injection and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 2 standards for applicable markets throughout its production.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the turbocharger’s oil return line, potentially leading to oil leaks and turbo bearing damage. This issue, highlighted in Volvo Service Bulletin 5234FT‑12, is often linked to heat degradation and material fatigue. The engine was succeeded by the B5234T3 and B5244T engines in subsequent model years.
Production years 1994–1998 meet Euro 2 standards for applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval not applicable for pre-1992 vehicles).
The Volvo B 5234 FT is a 2,319 cc inline‑five petrol engine engineered for high-performance sedans and wagons (1994-1998). It combines a robust cast-iron block with a modern DOHC 20-valve valvetrain and timing belt to deliver turbocharged performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions regulations, it incorporated catalytic converters and precise electronic fuel injection.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,319 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑5, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with intercooler | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 225 hp (168 kW) @ 5,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) @ 2,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 4.3 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T25 (air-to-air intercooler) | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven dual overhead camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 (semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 175 kg (est.) |
The turbocharger provides exhilarating mid-range power ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to the 60,000-mile timing belt replacement interval and regular inspection of the turbo oil return line to prevent bearing damage. SAE 10W-30 oil is recommended. The Bosch Motronic system requires precise sensor function. Catalytic converter models mandate unleaded fuel. Ignition timing and boost pressure are critical for performance and emissions.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-30 specification (Volvo Workshop Manual 1997). Modern semi-synthetics meeting ACEA A3/B3 are acceptable.
Emissions: Formal Euro 2 certification applies to all models for applicable 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 1995).
Volvo Workshop Manual (1997 Edition)
Volvo Technical Data Sheet (1995)
Volvo Service Bulletin 5234FT-12
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Volvo B 5234 FT was used across Volvo's 850 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations between sedan and wagon variants, though it was paired with different transmissions (M56, AW50-42) depending on model year. All applications 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 1997). The code will read "B5234FT". Visual identification: Cast-iron block, distinctive inline-five configuration, black plastic camshaft cover, and prominent Garrett T25 turbocharger with top-mounted intercooler. Critical differentiation from the B5234T3: The B5234FT has a higher power output (225 hp vs. 240 hp for the T3) and may have different ECU mapping or boost pressure settings.
The B 5234 FT's primary reliability risk is turbocharger oil return line failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or heat-soaked engines. Volvo service data indicates this was a frequent cause of oil leaks and turbo damage, while owner club surveys highlight ignition coil and timing belt issues as secondary concerns. Infrequent maintenance and neglect make regular inspection and adherence to OEM service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Volvo technical bulletins (1994-1998) and Volvo Owners Club failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLVO B-5234-FT.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLVO or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
VOLVO Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLVO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
