The 2.3-liter Saab B234E turbo engine was produced by the company only from 1994 to 1998 and was installed only on the restyled version of the model with the 9000 index in the EcoPower modification. This 0.55 bar supercharged engine was considered the weakest power unit in its lineup.
2.3-liter H-series family: B234E, B234i, B234R, B235E, B235R.
Specifications
| Production years | 1994-1998 |
| Displacement, cc | 2290 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 170 |
| Torque output, Nm | 260 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 90 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 90 |
| Compression ratio | 9.25 |
| 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 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Saab 9000 1995) — city — highway — combined |
12.5 6.8 8.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~320 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Saab 9000 I in 1994 – 1998.
Disadvantages of the Saab B234E engine
- This is a reliable engine, and all the described breakdowns happen at high mileage;
- The main problems here are delivered by the block of balancers and many simply remove it;
- After lighting up or with a rare change of candles, the ignition cassette often burns;
- By a run of 250,000 km, the oil pump usually wears out and the timing chain is extended;
- Very rarely, but there have been cases of unscrewing the connecting rod caps, which is fatal for the engine.
Frequently asked questions about the Saab B234E
How much power does the Saab B234E make?
The Saab B234E develops 170 hp and 260 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Saab B234E 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 B234E have a timing belt or chain?
The Saab B234E uses a timing chain.
Is the Saab B234E turbocharged?
Yes, the Saab B234E is turbocharged (Garrett TB25).
Does the Saab B234E need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Saab B234E has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Saab B234E last?
The typical lifespan of the Saab B234E is ~320 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Saab B234E?
Saab 9000 1995: city 12.5, highway 6.8, combined 8.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the Saab B234E installed on?
Saab 9000 I in 1994 - 1998.
What are the common problems of the Saab B234E?
This is a reliable engine, and all the described breakdowns happen at high mileage. The main problems here are delivered by the block of balancers and many simply remove it. All known problems.
