2001 Saab 9 3 Owners Manual

220 lbs (100 kg). Note that the roof load is included in the car’s maximum permissible load (see page 245). Strong, sturdy roof carriers designed spe- cially for the car are available from your Saab dealer. Always secure the roof load safely.

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Mounting holes for load carrier, front on Coupés and front/rear on five-door mod- els

Carrier mounting, rear, on Coupés

Installing the roof carriers (acces- sory) The carrier feet are marked with a top view of the car and an arrow indicating their positions. 1 Slip the plastic cover onto the adjustable foot of the carrier (the foot with a knob for tightening) to protect the paintwork during assembly.

2 Open all the doors.

Fold back the rubber strip and locate the fixing holes. On Coupés, the cover plates for the rearmost points of attach- ment must be removed.

3 Position the carrier gently across the

roof, with the rigid foot towards you. Hold the foot clear of the roof to avoid damag- ing the paintwork.

4 Fold back the rubber strip and insert the pins of the foot into the fixing holes. In fit- ting the rear carrier on Coupés, press the foot down over the pins in the mount- ing and slide it forward.

5 Carefully close the doors on this side, so

as to hold the feet in place.

6 Move to the other side of the car and

remove the plastic cover from the adjustable foot. Fold back the rubber strip and insert the pins of the foot into the fixing holes.

7 When fitting the rear carrier on Coupés, press the foot down over the pins in the mounting and slide it forward.

8 Make the carrier hand-tight by turning

the knob clockwise.

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Driving with a load The driving characteristics of the car are affected by the way it is loaded. (cid:127) Place heavy loads as far forward and as

low as possible in the trunk.

(cid:127) Secure the load to the tie downs, see

page 148.

(cid:127) The load should be such that the car´s

total weight or axle weight are not exceeded, see page 245.

(cid:127) Heavy loads mean that the car’s center of gravity is further back. As a result, the car will sway more during evasive steering.

(cid:127) Never exceed the permissible load in the roof box, even if there is room for more. (cid:127) Ensure that the tire pressure is correct – slight overinflation is preferable to under- inflation.

(cid:127) The braking distance of a loaded car is

always greater. Keep your distance from the vehicle in front.

Tire pressure, see page 217 and back cover.

Never reduce the pressure of a hot tire. If the tires are hot when you check them, only increase the pressure, if necessary. Underinflated tires wear more quickly than slightly overinflated tires. If a valve is leaking, simply unscrew it and fit a new one. Important! Remember to adjust the tire pressures if you change the load in the car or intend to drive at substantially lower or higher speeds than normal.

Tires

NOTE

Check the tire pressure at least once a month. Underinflation is the main cause of: (cid:127) Damage to the wheels. (cid:127) Premature tire wear. (cid:127) Damage to the sidewalls.

The tire pressure should match the current load and speed of the car; see the back cover or the tire pressure label on page 253. The tire pressures given apply to cold tires, that is tires that are the same temperature as the outside air temperature. The tire pressure increases as the tires become warm (e.g. during highway driving) with approximately 0.3 bar (4 psi). When the temperature of the tires changes by 50° (10°C), the tire pressure will change 0.1 bar (2 psi).

Driving with the trunk lid open Avoid driving with the trunk lid partly or fully open, since exhaust fumes can be drawn into the cabin. If you must drive with the trunk lid open, all windows and the sunroof (if fitted) must be closed and the cabin fan on at its highest speed setting. Driving in deep water

NOTE

Do not drive in water deeper than 11” (30 cm) and do not drive faster than at idling speed. Water can otherwise be sucked into the engine. The engine will be damaged if water enters the intake sys- tem. The car´s electrical systems may also be affected.

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Front towing eye

Transporting the car

NOTE

If a car with sports (lowered) chassis is transported, for example on a flat bed truck, take extra care not to damage the spoiler and/or underbody.

Towing the car

WARNING

(cid:127) The towing vehicle should always be heavier than the vehicle being towed. (cid:127) Never allow passengers to ride in the

car being towed.

(cid:127) Remember that the brake servo does

not operate when the engine is off. Much greater pressure than normal will therefore be required to operate the brake pedal.

(cid:127) Nor does the steering pump operate when the engine is off. The steering will therefore be much heavier than usual.

(cid:127) Always seek professional help if the

car needs to be towed.

The car is fitted with towing eyes at both front and rear. For access to the front towing eye, located on the right-hand side of the car, compress the grille (see illustration) and pull it straight out. If the car is equipped with a trailer hitch, this can be used to tow another car.

NOTE

Do not confuse the front towing eye with the oil pipe for the power steering.

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Rear towing eye

Front towing eye, Saab 9-3 Viggen

Saab 9-3 Viggen The front towing eye is stored in a storage bag beside the spare wheel. Remove the plastic cover with a screwdriver from the car’s toolkit, and screw in the towing eye.

NOTE

The design of the underside of the rear bumper means that the rear towing eye must not be used. This is to prevent dam- aging the bumper.

Towing a car with manual gearbox The gear lever must be in neutral. Switch hazard lights on. Drive carefully and do not exceed the speed limit for vehicles in tow. Always try to keep the towrope taut by gently applying the brake as necessary. This will avoid the towrope being jerked vio- lently.

NOTE

If the car is to be towed with the front wheels off the ground, make sure the parking brake is off, as this acts on the rear wheels.

Towing a car with automatic transmission The following rules must be observed if a car with automatic transmission is to be towed. The gear selector must be in the N position. Switch hazard lights on. Drive carefully and do not exceed the speed limit for vehicles in tow. Always try to keep the towrope taut by gently applying the brake as necessary. This will avoid the towrope being jerked vio- lently.

NOTE

The car must be towed front first. If the car is to be towed with the front wheels off the ground, make sure the parking brake is off, as this acts on the rear wheels.

1 Selector lever in position N. 2 Raise the oil level in the gearbox above normal by 2 extra quarts. Use oil of type Texaco Texamatic Dexron III.

3 The local regulations on towing speeds

must be followed. The highest permissible towing speed is 30 mph (50 km/h), unless the legal limit is lower. The longest permissible towing distance is 25-30 miles (40-50 km). If the car has to be transported farther than that, summon a tow truck. A flat bed tow truck is the preferred method to tow.

4 When the car is being returned to ser-

vice, check the gearbox oil, and reduce it to the prescribed amount if necessary. The engine cannot be started by towing or pushing the car. In emergency, the engine can be started as described in the section ”Jump starting”.

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Jump starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your Saab. Follow the steps below to do it safely.

WARNING

Batteries can cause injury. They can be dangerous because: (cid:127) They contain acid that can burn you. (cid:127) They contain gas that can explode or

ignite.

(cid:127) They contain enough electricity to

injure you.

If you do not follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.

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Starting and driving

NOTE

Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that would not be covered by your warranty. Trying to start your car by pushing or pull- ing it could damage your vehicle, even if you have a manual transmission. If you have an automatic transmission, your vehicle cannot be started by pushing or pulling it.

To jump start your vehicle: 1 Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system.

NOTE

If the other system is not a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged.

2 Get the vehicles close enough so the

jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles are not touching each other. If a poor connection on the negative jumper cable should exist, it is possible for damage to be caused to electrical systems/components of either vehicle should inadvertent contact be made. You would not be able to start your car and bad grounding could damage the electrical systems.

WARNING

You could be injured if the vehicles roll. Set the parking brake firmly on each vehi- cle. Put an automatic transmission in P (Park) or a manual transmission in Neu- tral.

3 Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Turn off all lights that are not needed, and radios. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries and it could save your radio.

NOTE

If you leave your radio on, it could be badly damaged. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty.

4 Open the hood and locate the battery. Find the positive (+) and negative (-) termi- nals on the battery.

WARNING

An electric fan can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

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9 Attach the cable at least 18 inches

(45 cm) away from the discharged bat- tery, but not near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is just as good there, but the chance of sparks getting back to the battery is much less. 10 Start the vehicle with the good battery

and run the engine for a while.

11 Try to start the vehicle with the dis-

charged battery. If it does not start after a few tries, it probably needs service.

12 Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent electrical shorting. Take care that they do not touch each other or any other metal.

WARNING

Using a match or flame of any kind near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. You can suffer burns or be blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. The battery installed in your new Saab has filler caps. Be sure the right amount of water is there. Add distilled or boiled water if the level is too low. If you don’t, explosive gas could be present. Be sure the electrolyte in the battery is not frozen. Discharged batteries will freeze. When connecting jumper cables to a frozen battery, gas from the chemical reaction inside the battery can build up under the ice and cause an explosion. Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you. Do not get it on you. If you acciden- tally get it in your eyes or on your skin, flush the area with water and get medical help immediately.

5 Check that the jumper cables do not

have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock and also the vehicles could be damaged. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) and negative (-) will go to a major metal engine part with a good ground. Do not connect (+) to (-) or you will get a short that could injure you or would damage the battery and maybe other parts as well.

6 Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the discharged battery.

7 Do not let the other end touch metal.

Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.

8 Now connect the black negative (-)

cable to the good battery’s negative ter- minal. Do not let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative cable does not go to the dead battery. It goes to a major metal part with a good ground on the engine of the vehi- cle with the discharged battery.

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Driving considerations with compact spare wheel/tire fitted

WARNING

Do not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h) as the tire can overheat and adversely affect the handling of the car. The tire should be inflated to 60 psi (420 kPa).

The following should be observed when the compact spare wheel (T115/70 R16) is installed: The compact spare is light and easy to handle when changing the wheel. Do not drive farther than necessary with the com- pact spare fitted – the maximum life of the wheel is only just over 2000 miles (3,500 km). Have the standard wheel repaired and reinstalled as soon as possi- ble.

Points to bear in mind when driving with a compact spare wheel: (cid:127) The car’s ground clearance is reduced

with the compact spare fitted.

(cid:127) Only one compact spare wheel may be

used at any time.

(cid:127) Take care not to hit the curb. (cid:127) Do not fit snow chains. (cid:127) Leave the wheel cover off, so that the

warning text is readily visible.

NOTE

To avoid damaging a punctured alloy wheel this can be placed outside up in the spare-wheel well but only while driving to the closest dealer. A general rule is that all heavy loads must be well secured in the luggage compart- ment, see page 148.

For long trips Before starting off on a long journey, it is advisable to have your car inspected by your Saab dealer. Obtain a few important items to take along on your journey such as spare bulbs, wiper blades, fuses, a Poly-Vee-belt and the like. You can check some points yourself before- hand: (cid:127) Make sure that the engine is in good con-

dition.

(cid:127) Check that no oil or fuel leaks out of the

engine or gearbox/transmission.

(cid:127) Check the coolant and power steering

fluid levels. Check also for leaks. Inspect the Poly-Vee-belt and replace it if it shows any signs of wear.

(cid:127) Check the battery charge. (cid:127) Check the tires for tread pattern and air pressure, including the compact spare wheel.

(cid:127) Take an extra car key/remote control and

keep it separate, see also page 36.

(cid:127) Check the brakes. (cid:127) Check all bulbs. (cid:127) Check for the presence of the tool kit and

the jack in the car.

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191

Upholstery and trim ......... 225 Textile carpeting .............. 225 Engine bay........................ 226 Washing ............................ 226 Waxing and polishing...... 227 Touching up the paint ..... 227 Anti-corrosion treatment. 228 Recovery and/or recy- cling of automotive mate- rials.................................. 230 Air conditioning (A/C system) ........................... 232

Car care

Hood release handle ....... 192 Engine .............................. 194 Engine bay ....................... 193 Engine oil ......................... 196 Transmission fluid .......... 197 Coolant............................. 198 Brake- clutch fluid and brake pads ..................... 200 Power steering ................ 201 Battery.............................. 201 Drive belt.......................... 203 Wipers and washers ....... 204 Wiper blades.................... 204 Changing bulbs ............... 206 Fuses................................ 212 Wheels.............................. 217 Safety belts ...................... 224

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Hood release handle The handle of the hood lock is located on the left under the instrument panel. Open the hood in the following way: 1 Pull the release handle. 2 The hood moves to the half-locked posi- tion and is stopped by a safety catch at the front edge.

3 Press the lever of the catch upwards and

raise the hood.

When you close the hood you should drop it from a height of about 8 inches (20 cm), without slamming it.

WARNING

Never hold your fingers between the hood and safety catch if lowering but not clos- ing the hood.

Hood release handle

Hood release pressure plate

Engine bay

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193

1 Engine-oil dipstick 2 Brake-fluid reservoir 3 Power-steering fluid reservoir 4 Fuse box 5 Coolant reservoir 6 MAXI fuses 7 Washer-fluid reservoir 8 Battery 9 Drive belt 10 Air filter

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194
Engine The engine is a transverse four-cylinder in-line engine with twin overhead camshafts and 16 valves. The engine is equipped with two balance shafts that reduce engine vibration to a min- mimum. The balance shafts are chain-driven and rotate at twice the speed of the crankshaft. They produce forces and torques that are opposed to those generated by the pistons and connecting rods. The effect occurs twice in each revolution of the engine, coun- teracting the vibration from its moving parts, and at the same time reducing unwanted engine noise. The gearbox, located on the right (viewed from the front), is integrated with the engine.

Engine families Saab cars imported into the United States and Canada meet all applicable emission control standards. The engine family and appropriate tune-up specifications are iden- tified on a label affixed to the left front inner fender. These engine families meet applicable EPA Federal Standards, California State Stan- dards and Canadian Federal Standards and are equipped with the following systems: • Sequential multiport fuel injection system. (cid:127) Three way catalytic converter. (cid:127) Crankcase emissions control system. (cid:127) Evaporative emission system.

Emission control systems The systems for controlling emissions to the atmosphere require regular checking and adjustment at the intervals specified in the service program. In addition to meeting the exhaust emission regulations and thereby helping to keep the environment clean, a correctly tuned engine will also give maximum fuel economy.

NOTE

The Trionic engine management system continuously monitors the operation of these systems and has on-board diag- nostic capabilities (OBD II). If the CHECK ENGINE light in the main instrument illu- minates, the Trionic ECM has detected a problem. The car will continue to operate, but performance may be diminished. You should have your car checked by a Saab dealer as soon as possible.

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195

ORVR (Onboard Refueling Vapor Recovery) All hydrocarbons formed when refueling will be recovered by the car and not released into the atmosphere. The hydrocarbons are absorbed in an evaporative emission canis- ter. When the engine is subsequently started, the evaporative emission canister is gradually purged as air is sucked into it through a shut-off valve. The hydrocar- bon/air mixture passes through the evap canister purge valve and into the engine where it is burned. "Refueling", see page 157.

Saab Trionic engine management system The Saab Trionic engine management system is a unique Saab development that combines sequential multiport fuel injection, electronic distributorless ignition and turbo- charger boost pressure control into one sys- tem. The Trionic engine control module (ECM) monitors many different engine parameters such as:

Intake manifold pressure. Intake air temperature.

(cid:127) Crankshaft position. (cid:127) Engine coolant temperature. (cid:127) Throttle position. (cid:127) The oxygen content of the exhaust gases. The ECM receives information regarding engine knocking from a sophisticated feed- back function in the ignition discharge unit. By processing all of this information, the Tri- onic system can control fuel injector open- ing duration, ignition timing and turbo- charger boost pressure to provide excellent engine performance while maintaining low emissions and fuel consumption.

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Engine oil Checking the fluid level Regularly check the oil level in the engine. Do this with the car standing on level ground with the engine warm, 2-5 minutes after it has been turned off. Take the dipstick out and wipe it off with a clean rag before carry- ing out the check. The level must not be below the MIN mark on the dipstick, but nor should it be above the MAX mark. Excess engine oil could result in abnormal oil consumption. The distance between MIN and MAX corre- sponds to a volume of about one quart. When necessary, add oil of the recom- mended grade via the dipstick pipe. Make sure that the cap of the dipstick is screwed on properly after the check. Oil changing The engine oil must be changed in accor- dance with the service program, see page 239. Oil volume and grade, see page 247. Oil changing should be carried out on a warm engine.

Oil filler cap and dipstick

Drain plug

1 Unscrew the drain plug in the bottom of the sump and leave the oil to drain into an oil tray or other suitable receptacle for at least ten minutes. Take care, as the oil may be hot.

2 After the oil has been drained, unscrew

and remove the oil filter.

3 Fit a new filter and tighten it by hand. 4 Refit the drain plug with a new washer. 5 Add new oil.

Run the engine to normal temperature and check the oil level.

NOTE

Change of engine oil and oil filter may be required more frequently (5000-mile intervals (8,000 km)) if any one of the fol- lowing conditions apply to the car:

(cid:127) Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing.

(cid:127) Most trips include extensive idling

(such as frequent stop-and-go driving).

(cid:127) Most trips are through dusty areas.

(cid:127) You frequenty tow a trailer or use a car-

rier on top of your vehicle.

If the vehicle is used for delivery ser- vice, police, taxi or other commerical applications.

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197

WARNING

MAX +80°

(cid:127) Prolonged and repeated exposure of the skin to engine oil can cause seri- ous skin disorders.

(cid:127) Avoid prolonged skin contact when-

ever possible. Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water after any contact.

(cid:127) Keep oil out of reach of children.

(cid:127) Do not touch the turbocharger or

manifold. These get very hot when the engine has been running.

(cid:127) Do not spill oil on hot parts of the

engine as this could cause a fire. Used engine oil is particularly flammable.

(cid:127) Protect the environment. Do not dis- pose of oil in the ground or down a drain. Dispose of all used oil and oil fil- ters at an appropriate disposal facility.

+80° MIN

Oil dipstick, automatic transmission

Transmission fluid Manual transmission Check and top up the fluid in accordance with the service program. If original fluid cannot be obtained for top- ping up, Dexron III (synthetic fluid) auto- matic transmission fluid can be used. If so, the car should be taken to an authorized Saab dealer as soon as possible to have the reason for low fluid level corrected and orig- inal fluid installed. Automatic transmission Check the fluid level as follows: 1 Park the car on level ground and apply the parking brake. The automatic trans- mission fluid must be at normal running temperature, approximately 175°F

(cid:127) 198

Car care

(80°C). This can be achieved by driving the car for about 30 min on the open road.

2 With the engine idling, move the selector

lever to D and wait for at least 15 seconds. Next, move the selector lever to R and wait for 15 seconds again. Finally, move the selector lever to P. Let the engine idle.

3 Wipe the dipstick clean with a lint-free

cloth and put it back.

4 With the fluid at normal temperature, the

level should be between the MAX and MIN marks on the dipstick. Top up, as necessary, with Texaco Texamatic Dexron III automatic-transmission fluid, adding it through the dipstick pipe. The distance between the MIN and MAX marks on the dipstick corresponds to a volume of approximately 0.4 qts (0.4 litre).

NOTE

If there is a burnt smell or the fluid is black, change the fluid as soon as possible.

If the outside temperature is below 50°F (10°C), the fluid will not reach the specified temperature of 175°F (80°C). In this case, the correct fluid level may be 0.8 in (20 mm) below the MAX mark.

Coolant

WARNING

(cid:127) Proceed with caution if the radiator is

boiling when you open the hood. Never remove the expansion-tank filler cap when the radiator is boiling. Loosen the cap carefully, and let the engine cool before removing the cap.

(cid:127) The cooling system is pressurized – hot coolant and vapor can escape when the filler cap is released.

The expansion tank is transparent, to facili- tate checking. The level must be a little under the mark ”KALT – COLD” on the tank when the engine is cold. If the SID message "FILL COOLANT FLUID" is displayed, the level in the expansion tank should be checked. Top up as necessary with equal parts of clean water and coolant. Use only coolant approved by Saab. If the expansion tank is empty when coolant is added, run the engine to normal temper- ature and top up again, as necessary.

Coolant expansion tank

Coolant The cooling system is filled at the factory with coolant containing a 50% concentra- tion of a combined antifreeze and corrosion inhibitor. A weaker mixture will result in reduced anticorrosion protection. For pro- tection against freezing in very cold weather, a stronger concentration will be needed. A 60% concentration of antifreeze will pro- vide protection at temperatures down to -58 F (-50°C).

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6 Add the coolant slowly to the expansion tank. This will take about two minutes, as the air needs time to escape.

7 Screw the expansion-tank cap on and run the engine to normal temperature. Top up with coolant until the level is just under the "KALT – COLD" mark on the tank.

8 Check the coolant again after a few days

and top up as necessary.

Radiator drain cock

The corrosion-inhibiting properties of the coolant deteriorate over time, but coolant approved by Saab can be used for year-round protection. Change the coolant as specified in the service program (page 239) and use only coolant approved by Saab – other makes may need changing more frequently and may damage the sys- tem.

NOTE

Always mix the antifreeze with the appropriate volume of water before adding it to the cooling system. If pure antifreeze is added, the engine could still freeze and be damaged. This is because the antifreeze will not mix properly with the coolant before the thermostat has opened to allow full circulation.

Changing the coolant (Usually carried out as part of the Saab original service by an authorized Saab dealer) 1 If the engine is hot, loosen the expan-

sion-tank filler cap a little to release the pressure. Leave the cap in place.

2 Fit a suitable piece of hose onto the

nipple of the drain cock. Let the hose dis- charge into a receptacle under the radi- ator and open the drain cock, which is located on the inside of the radiator facing the engine bay.

3 Remove the filler cap on the expansion

tank.

4 In a couple of minutes the system will be

empty. Close the drain cock.

5 Mix antifreeze and water in a suitable

container. Use only Saab-approved coolant.

Brake pad wear indicators The outboard brake pads on the front wheels incorporate pad-wear indicators. When the lining is down to 0.11 in (3 mm), the pad will produce a screeching, squeal- ing or scraping noise when the brakes are applied. New pads should be installed with- out delay. Brake pads should only be changed by an authorized Saab dealer. To ensure optimum brake performance, use only Saab original brake pads.

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200
Brake- clutch fluid and brake pads

WARNING

Brake fluid deteriorates as it becomes old. Because it is hygroscopic, it absorbs water from the air and, in time, could allow vapor to form in the brake system, thus reducing its performance. It is therefore important that brake fluid be changed reg- ularly, as specified in the service pro- gram, see page 239.

Checking the fluid level The combined brake and clutch-fluid reser- voir is transparent to facilitate checking of the fluid level. The level should be between the MAX and MIN marks. Top up, as necessary, with DOT 4 fluid. Do not use DOT 5 brake fluid. Use only new brake fluid from a sealed con- tainer. Check that there are no leaks in the brake system. Changing of the brake fluid should be carried out by an authorized Saab dealer.

The vehicle´s regular braking system is adjusted automatically, but the parking brake has to be adjusted manually. This work, involving adjustment of the parking brake cables and brake pads, must only be carried out by an authorized Saab dealer. It is not possible to detect, through abnormal pedal or parking brake-lever travel, whether brake pads are worn and need replacing. It is therefore essential that brake pads be checked regularly, as specified in the ser- vice program, see page 239.

NOTE

Avoid spilling brake fluid onto paintwork, since it can cause the paint to bubble and lift. If any brake fluid is spilled, the area should be flushed with large quantities of water as quickly as possible.

Power steering fluid reservoir

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201

Battery

WARNING

(cid:127) Work on the battery may entail an

explosion hazard, since the battery gives off hydrogen which forms an explosive mixture with the oxygen in the air. For this reason, always avoid sparks or open flames when working near the battery.

(cid:127) The battery contains corrosive sulphu- ric acid. Always wear a face mask or goggles when working on the battery.

(cid:127) If battery acid gets into the eyes or

splashes the skin or clothing, wash the affected area liberally with water. If acid gets into the eyes or a large quantity makes contact with the skin, seek medical help.

Power steering

WARNING

Do not fill the power steering fluid to above the MAX mark. Too much fluid can result in leakage. Power steering fluid on hot engine com- ponents constitutes a fire risk.

Check the level of the power-steering fluid in the reservoir regularly, in accordance with the service program. The wheels should point forward during the check. Clean around the cap before it is unscrewed. Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick. To check the fluid level, first screw the cap on fully again and then remove. The level should be between the MAX and MIN marks on the dipstick when the oil temperature is about 68°F (+20°C). If the oil is colder the oil level can be lower, and in higher tempera- tures the level can be higher, both of which are acceptable. Top up with power-steering fluid CHF 11S (part number 8996860).

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Car care

A car with standard equipment and a fully charged battery can be left for up to 40 days and still have a sufficient charge for starting. If extra equipment is fitted, such as a mobile telephone, the time may be reduced to about 15 days. Always connect the positive (red) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the battery and the negative (blue) cable to its negative (-) terminal. Always disconnect both battery leads when boost charging the battery.

NOTE

• Don’t connect the battery terminals

+ and – the wrong way around.

(cid:127) Serious damage can occur to the car’s electrical system if a battery or alterna- tor lead is disconnected while the engine is running.

Correct fluid level in the battery

Taking out the battery

The liquid level in the car battery must be checked at regular intervals.

NOTE

NOTE

Never use tap water to top up the battery. Use distilled or boiled water.

Tap water contains salts and minerals that accelerate the corrosion of the battery elec- trodes, which can shorten the life of the bat- tery. The charge level should be checked with a battery-acid tester. The specific gravity of the acid in a fully charged battery should be 1.28. A specific gravity of 1.18 roughly indi- cates a 50% charge.

A discharged battery can freeze and frac- ture. Batteries should therefore always be stored away from frost.

If frequent short journeys are made in cold weather, the battery may need to be given a booster charge. This can be done either using a battery charger or by taking the car for a long drive.

Drive belt

WARNING

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203

(cid:127) Keep hands and clothing clear of drive

belts when engine is running. (cid:127) Always stop the engine before

inspecting drive belts.

(cid:127) The fan can start even when the

engine is switched off.

NOTE

Drive belt

Serious damage can occur to the car’s electrical system if an alternator lead is disconnected while the engine is running.

The alternator is situated on the right-hand side of the engine. It is driven via a poly-V-belt from the crankshaft pulley. The poly-V-belt also drives the water pump, the A/C compressor and the steering servo pump. The belt tension is critical, and is adjusted by an automatic belt tensioner. See also page 61, "Warning charging".

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204
Wipers and washers Wiper blades Check and clean all wiper blades regularly. We recommend Saab washer fluid for cleaning. If poor wiper performance is experienced, clean the windshield with Saab washer fluid. This is particularly important if the car has been through an automatic car wash, as this sometimes leave a wax coating on the wind- shield. If wiper performance is still unsatisfactory, fit new blades.

Windshield and rear window 1 Push the catch in (1). 2 Pull the complete wiper blade down-

wards so that it comes away from the wiper arm. Slide the entire blade out from the arm.

Headlight wipers 1 Lift the wiper arm off the headlight. 2 Detach the wiper blade by pulling it

laterally from the wiper arm.

3 Fit the new blade by sliding it into the

retainer on the wiper arm and pressing it firmly home.

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Washer jets The washer jets, which are adjustable, can be cleaned with a pin if necessary. The jet for rear-window washing is located in the right-hand part of the high-mounted brake light.

Washer-fluid reservoir

Washer The reservoir holds 5 quarts (4.7 litres). When the SID message "WASHER FLUID LEVEL LOW" appears there is about 1.5 quarters (1.4 litres) left. Fill with quality washer fluid, available from your Saab dealer and follow the instructions on the package to reduce the risk of freez- ing. Note: If the reservoir is run dry and the car has a rear-window wiper, then after refilling you cannot wash the rear window until you have first washed the windscreen.

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Changing bulbs

WARNING

Before changing a bulb in the engine bay, switch off the engine to avoid the danger of fingers and hands being injured by moving parts. The radiator fan can cut in even when the engine is switched off.

NOTE

Switch off the ignition before changing a bulb, to avoid possible short-circuiting.

1 Headlight bulb 2 Parking-light bulb

Headlight 1 Unscrew the cover from the back of the light units. 2 Unplug the connector. 3 Unhook the spring clip by pushing it forward and then to the side. 4 Remove the bulb. 5 Insert the new bulb, without touching the glass with your fingers. Line it up so that the three lugs fit into the corresponding slots in the reflector and secure it with the spring clip.

IMPORTANT! When changing bulbs, use the same type of bulb, (e.g. Long-life). Headlight aiming, see page 233. Parking lights The parking-light bulb is fitted in the same light unit as the headlight bulb. 1 Remove the bulb holder from the lamp unit. 2 Then take the bulb out of the holder.

NOTE

Do not fit bulbs with a rating above 60/55W, since the headlight reflector and the wiring of the car are not designed for a higher wattage. Do not touch the glass of the bulbs with your fingers. The oil on your skin can shorten the life of the bulb.

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207

Side-mounted turn signal 1 Slide the lens forward so that its rear part can be pulled out. 2 Change the bulb. 3 When refitting, make sure that the groove in the spring engages the edge of the body panel and that the rubber gasket is correctly positioned.

1 Retaining screw 2 Turn signal bulb

Front turn signal bulb To change the bulb, the complete lamp unit has to be removed. 1 Loosen the screw (1). There is no need to remove it completely. 2 Carefully remove the complete lamp unit. 3 Grasp the two plastic tabs and turn the bulb holder counterclock-

wise.

4 Pull the bulb holder out of the lamp unit and change the bulb. 5 Check that the new bulb is firmly in place and has good contact. 6 When mounting the lamp unit, see that the two guide lugs on the

rear edge of the unit come inside the edge of the body panel. 7 Insert the lamp unit in towards the headlight and see that the front bracket comes under the screw. Tighten the screw (1).

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Car care

Front fog lights 1 Slightly turn the bulb holder counter-

clockwise.

2 Unplug the connector. 3 Remove the bulb.

Rear light clusters 1 Direction indicators 2 Tail lights/stop lights 3 Reversing lights 4 Rear fog light 5 High-mounted stop light

WARNING

Never crawl under a car that is supported only by a jack, use axle stands; for further information about jacking up the car, see page 222.

Stop lights, taillights and direction indicators 1 Open the door in the trunk upholstery. 2 Press aside the plastic tab that secures

the bulb holder.

3 Carefully pull the entire bulb holder out of the lamp unit. Replace the dead bulb. 4 When the bulb holder is being refitted, check that its plastic catches snap into place.

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209

Reversing lights and rear fog light 1 Open the hatch on the inside of the

trunk.

2 Press down the plastic tab that secures

the bulb holder.

3 Carefully pull the entire bulb holder out of the lamp unit. Replace the dead bulb. 4 When refitting the bulb holder, fit it in first

at the lower edge. Then push the bulb holder in so that the plastic tab snaps into place.

Dome light, front 1 Insert a screwdriver on one side and pry gently upwards. Remove the cover lens.

2 Change the bulb.

Dome light, rear 1 Remove the entire overhead panel:

ease out the trailing end of the dome light first, and then both front edges.

2 Change the bulb.

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Car care

License plate lighting (the glass is held in place by two screws)

Reading lamps, rear seat (Convertible)

Reading lamps, 9-3 Convertible Detach the whole lamp unit by inserting a screwdriver into the notch and carefully prying the lamp unit out. Pull the bulb holder out of its bracket and change the bulb. Replace the bulb holder in its bracket and refit the entire lamp unit. Other lighting If any other bulbs need changing, you are advised to take the car to an authorized Saab dealer.

Glove-compartment lighting (detach the whole lamp unit with a short screwdriver applied at the lower edge)

Trunk light (detach the whole lamp unit with a screwdriver applied at one edge)

Bulb table

Car care

211

No. Wattage Cap

60/55
55
1,2

P 43t-38 Headlight P 14.5s W 2 x 4.6d Ashtray; cigarette lighter; warning

Front fog light

light for safety belts Rear fog light; reversing light

BA 15s BAY 15d Stop/taillight

21
21/5
PY 21 yel BAU 15s Direction indicator, front/rear

BA9

10

SV 8.5

W 2.1 x 9.5d

Reading lamps, rear (Coupé and 5-door) Dome light; trunk; glove compart- ment Side indicators (yellow bulb); license plate lighting; parking lights; reading lamps, front; reading lamps, rear (Convertible)

NOTE

Do not change any bulbs with ones of another wattage: only use what is stated.

3

Tool for changing fuses

WARNING

To avoid the risk of short-circuiting and/or fire breaking out in the electrical system, the following advice should be heeded: (cid:127) Always consult an authorized Saab

dealer before modifying or adding any electrical equipment. Failure to do so can result in the electrical system being damaged.

(cid:127) Never replace a fuse with one having a

higher/lower rating than specified (see page 214). The color of the fuse indicates its amperage.

(cid:127) If the same fuse blows repeatedly,

have the electrical system checked by an authorized Saab dealer.

(cid:127) If a MAXI fuse blows, it means that

there is a major fault in the electrical system. Have the car checked without delay by an authorized Saab dealer.

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212
Fuses The fuses are housed in two fuse panels: one at the end of the instrument panel on the driver’s side, and one under the hood. To check if a fuse has blown, first remove it from the panel (see below). If the filament is broken, the fuse has blown. A special tool for removing fuses is provided at the bottom of the fuse panel on the fascia. Simply push the tool onto the fuse, squeeze and remove the fuse.

Sound fuse/Blown fuse

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213

The DICE and TWICE control modules are linked to a data bus, which is basically an information carrier that allows information to be exchanged between all the control mod- ules and components connected to the bus. If a fault occurs in any of these components, diagnostic faults codes are set in the rele- vant control module, which enhances fault diagnosis at the Saab dealer. The scan tool connector for fault diagnosis is located under the instrument panel on the drivers side.

DICE / TWICE DICE = Dashboard Integrated Central Elec- tronics TWICE = Theft-Warning Central Electronics DICE and TWICE are electronic control modules. DICE controls, among other things: (cid:127) Front lights and interior lighting.

Instrument illumination. Intermittent wiper operation.

(cid:127) Electric heating of rear window and door

mirrors.

TWICE controls, among other things: (cid:127) Central locking. (cid:127) Car alarm (Anti-theft system). (cid:127) Engine immobilizer. (cid:127) Auto checking of lights. (cid:127) Electric heating of rear seat. (cid:127) Safety belt reminder. (cid:127) Electrically adjustable passenger seat.

MAXI fuse for soft-top system (Convertible)

MAXI fuses The MAXI fuses are housed in the fuse box under the hood. These fuses can be checked in the same way as the other fuses. The MAXI fuses are designed to protect the car’s electrical system from being dam- aged. Each MAXI fuse protects a number of electrical circuits and functions and there- fore has a higher rating (amperage) than the standard fuses. No spare MAXI fuses are supplied with the car.

NOTE

If a MAXI fuse blows, it means that there is a major fault in the electrical system. Have the car checked without delay by an authorized Saab dealer.

(cid:127) (cid:127) 214

Car care

1CBA

2 3 4 5 6

76A

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

16B 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

17

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

32 33 34 35 36

Fuse holder on the end of the instrument panel

37 38 39

Fuses

No. Amp – 10
30
30

20
30
15

30

Function – Stop lights, trailer Cabin fan, ACC Electrically heated rear window and rear-view mir- rors Direction indicators Cabin fan, A/C Trunk light; switch illumination; electrically powered radio antenna Electrically operated front seat, right

6A 10
11
12
13
14
15
16
16B 17

18
19
20

30

Cigarette lighter

7.5 Automatic transmission

30
15

Rear window operators, rear-view mirrors, sunroof Rear wiper 7.5 ACC panel

10

Horn

7.5 DICE / TWICE

20
15
30
20
30
30
15

10
10
20

Stop lights; front fog lights Diagnostics; radio Front window motors; soft top (Convertible) Daytime running lights Electrically operated front seat, left Control module, engine management system Control module, engine management system; DICE/TWICE; main instrument panel/SID; memory for electrically operated driver’s seat; telephone; cruise control Airbag ABS; A/C; rear fog light; switch, rear fog light Electric heating, front seats; switch, electrically heated rear window

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Relay holder Under the instrument panel next to the steering wheel

Item Function

A Electric heating of rear seat B Reversing light, cars with automatic transmission

– Lock motor, trunk lid

C1
C2
D1 Rear wiper D2 Rear-window washing

–

E Ignition switch G Windshield wipers (intermittent) H Rear-window heating K Start relay L Main relay (injection system)

Fuel pump –

No. Amp Function

21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31

32
33
34
35

36
37
38
39

10
15
20

Switch, manual A/C; soft top (Convertible) Direction indicators Soft top (Convertible); telephone

7.5 Radio

30

Central locking; amplifier

30 Control module, engine management system

15
10
10
10
20

15
15
10
15

High beam flash; ACC Control module, engine management system Right parking light; number-plate lighting Left parking light Reversing light; windshield wipers; headlight beam-length adjustment Fuel pump Electric heating of rear seat SID; control module; automatic transmission DICE/TWICE; main instrument panel; interior light- ing Relay, starter Limp-home

10
15
25 Oxygen sensor (lambda probe) – –

– Spare

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Car care

Fuses and relays Fuse panel in engine bay

No. Amp Function

10
11
12
13
14
15
MAXI 1
MAXI 2

10
15
40
10
15
10
10
10