The Saab B204L 2.0-liter turbo engine was produced at the concern’s factory from 1993 to 1999 and was installed in the second generation of the 900, as well as the 9-3 in its very first year of production. This 0.73 bar supercharged turbo engine was the average power in its line of units.
2.0-liter H-series family: B204E, B204i, B204L, B205E.
Specifications
| Production years | 1993-1999 |
| Displacement, cc | 1985 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 185 |
| Torque output, Nm | 263 (in the version with automatic transmission, the torque is limited to 230 Nm) |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 90 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 78 |
| Compression ratio | 9.2 |
| Features | Trionic 5 |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | Garrett TB25 |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.0 (together with an oil change in the cooler, 5.4 liters are needed) |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2/3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Saab 900 1997) — city — highway — combined |
11.9 6.5 8.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~290 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Saab 900 II (NG) in 1993 – 1998;
- Saab 9-3 I (YS3D) in 1998 – 1999.
Disadvantages of the Saab B204L engine
- The unit is very reliable, and the breakdowns described below occur at high mileage;
- The block of balancers delivers the most trouble and the owners simply remove it;
- Infrequent replacement of spark plugs reduces the life of the ignition cassette;
- By 250,000 km, you may encounter oil pump wear or timing chain stretching;
- Cases of engine failure due to unscrewing of connecting rod caps were recorded.
Frequently asked questions about the Saab B204L
How much power does the Saab B204L make?
Power output of the Saab B204L, hp: 185. Torque, Nm: 263 (in the version with automatic transmission, the torque is limited to 230 Nm).
How much oil does the Saab B204L take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.0 (together with an oil change in the cooler, 5.4 liters are needed) liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Saab B204L have a timing belt or chain?
The Saab B204L uses a timing chain.
Is the Saab B204L turbocharged?
Yes, the Saab B204L is turbocharged (Garrett TB25).
Does the Saab B204L need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Saab B204L has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Saab B204L last?
The typical lifespan of the Saab B204L is ~290 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Saab B204L?
Saab 900 1997: city 11.9, highway 6.5, combined 8.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the Saab B204L installed on?
Saab 900 II (NG) in 1993 - 1998; Saab 9-3 I (YS3D) in 1998 - 1999.
What are the common problems of the Saab B204L?
The unit is very reliable, and the breakdowns described below occur at high mileage. The block of balancers delivers the most trouble and the owners simply remove it. All known problems.
