The 2.3-liter Saab B235R turbo engine was assembled at the company’s factories from 1999 to 2009 and was installed on the first generation of the popular 9-3 and 9-5 models in the charged Aero version. This unit, in essence, was a lightweight modification of the well-known B234R turbo engine.
2.3-liter H-series family: B234E, B234i, B234R, B235E, B235R.
Specifications
| Production years | 1999-2009 |
| Displacement, cc | 2290 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 230 – 260 |
| Torque output, Nm | 350 – 370 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 90 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 90 |
| Compression ratio | 9.3 |
| Features | intercooler |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | MHI TD04HL-15T |
| Recommended engine oil | 0W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.0 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3/4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Saab 9-5 Aero 2007) — city — highway — combined |
12.8 6.4 8.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~200 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Saab 9-3 I (YS3D) in 1999 – 2002;
- Saab 9-5 I (YS3E) in 1999 – 2009.
Disadvantages of the Saab B235R engine
- First of all, this motor is worried about regular oil leaks, especially at the joints;
- Hydraulic lifters have a modest resource and often begin to knock to 150,000 km;
- By the same run, the oil pump often wears out, which is dangerous for liners;
- Closer to 200,000 km, oil scraper rings lie here and lubricant consumption appears;
- This unit does not tolerate tuning, its lightweight pistons can simply burn out;
- The block of balancers does not differ in a large resource, usually they get rid of it;
- The weak points of the engine also include the ignition cassette, turbine and electric throttle.
Frequently asked questions about the Saab B235R
How much power does the Saab B235R make?
The Saab B235R develops 230 - 260 hp and 350 - 370 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Saab B235R take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.0 liters. Recommended oil: 0W-30.
Does the Saab B235R have a timing belt or chain?
The Saab B235R uses a timing chain.
Is the Saab B235R turbocharged?
Yes, the Saab B235R is turbocharged (MHI TD04HL-15T).
Does the Saab B235R need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Saab B235R has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Saab B235R last?
The typical lifespan of the Saab B235R is ~200 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Saab B235R?
Saab 9-5 Aero 2007: city 12.8, highway 6.4, combined 8.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the Saab B235R installed on?
Saab 9-3 I (YS3D) in 1999 - 2002; Saab 9-5 I (YS3E) in 1999 - 2009.
What are the common problems of the Saab B235R?
First of all, this motor is worried about regular oil leaks, especially at the joints. Hydraulic lifters have a modest resource and often begin to knock to 150,000 km. All known problems.





