Owner’s Manual Saab 9-3 M2000 Safety Security Convertible Instruments and controls Saab 9-3 Audio System Interior equipment, trunk Starting and driving Car care Maintenance and owner assistance Technical data Index © Saab Automobile AB 1999 Service Readiness, Saab Automobile AB, Trollhättan, Sweden Printed in Sweden 11 29 41 53 89 111 133 167 211 219 233
NOTE IB730 NOTE texts warn of potential damage to the car if the recommendations are not followed. Introduction This manual provides practical guidance on driving and caring for your Saab. The Saab 9-3 is available with a 2.0l turbo-engine, 185 hp or 205 hp or a 2.3l turbo-engine, 230 hp. Although the manual describes the most important differences between model variants, it does not include precise specifications of the different variants.
Instrument panel High/low beam ________________ 71 Parking lights __________________ 71 Daytime running lights ___________ 71 Changing bulbs _______________ 181 Warning and indicator lights _____ Tachometer __________________ Speedometer _________________ Odometer and trip meter ________ Gauge showing turbo pressure ___ Fuel gauge __________________ Temperature gauge ____________ 54 59 59 59 60 61 60 Trip computer (Saab Information Display, SID) __ 62 Night panel __________________ 63 Clock _________
Exterior Driving with a roof rack load ____ 158 Mounting of roof rack __________ 158 Maximum loads ______________ 220 Sunroof _______________ 120 Convertible _____________ 42 Washing the car ________ 201 Waxing and polishing ____ 202 Touching-up of paintwork _ 202 Anticorrosion treatment ___ 203 Service program ________ 215 Hood release handle __________ 168 Engine compartment: washing __ 201 Headlight switches _______ 71 High/low beam control stalk 71 Turn signal & lane change indicators ___________
Interior Internal rearview mirror ________ 124 Door mirrors ________________ 124 Vanity mirror ________________ 122 Interior lighting switch _________ 121 Interior lighting: changing bulbs __ 185 Safety belts _____________ 12 Safety-belt care ________ 199 Airbag _________________ 22 Child seats _____________ 18 Child safety lock catch ____ 33 Power steering _________ 226 Steering-wheel adjustment 118 Airbag _________________ 22 Glove compartment _____ 123 Seat adjustment ________ 112 Safety belts __
Engine bay: turbo Engine: description ____________ 168 Engine oil, level control and topping up _______________ 172 Engine oil: changing ___________ 172 Oil grade, viscosity ____________ 223 Brake system ________________ Brake fluid __________________ Brake pads __________________ ABS brakes _________________ 227 176 176 149 Fuse panels ___________ Changing a fuse ________ Table of fuses __________ Relays _______________ 187 187 189 191 Warning labels ___________ 7 V.I.N.
WL1 WL2 WL3 WL4 Warning labels Radiator fan: Drive belt: The radiator fan can cut in even after engine has been switched off. Danger! Moving belt Coolant: Never open while engine is hot. Escaping coolant under pressure can cause serious injuries. A/C system: Refrigerant at high pressure. Do not undo or remove any connections in the A/C system until the system has been emptied. Working the wrong way may result in injury. Work on the A/C system must be left to qualified personnel only.
IB994 CANADA IB1195 8 Wheel changing: Intended for the Saab 9-5 and 9-3. Use the jack only on firm, level ground. Use blocks. Max. jack load: 2200 lbs. (1000 kg). For further information, see the manual. USA AIR BAG WARNING Flip visor over WARNING WL9 Belt beam CANADA Long loads 50 10 111 WARNING DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur. • Children 12 and under can be killed by the air bag. • The BACK SEAT is the SAFEST place for children. • NEVER put a rear-facing child seat in the front.
IB934 9 Soft top, Saab 9-3 Convertible IB963 Push the handle in before driving away. There would otherwise be a risk of injury. Jack Keep hands away from moving parts of the convertible top. Failure to do so may cause personal injury. Do not raise or lower top with passengers in the rear seat. Personal injury may result from head contact with top. WL16 – The jack is designed solely for use in changing a wheel or fitting snow chains.
Safety IB1301 Safety belts...................... Child safety......................
Safety Safety belts WARNING Safety belts must be worn at all times by all car occupants. Child safety, see page 18. Check that the tongue of the belt lock engages properly. The A-pillar area (area beside the windshield) and the headlining of your Saab contain padding designed to reduce head injuries (3 or 5-door only). No modifications to these areas should be made unless done so by your authorized Saab dealer. Three-point inertia-reel safety belts are provided for all seats.
Safety Safety-belt pretensioners Correct position for safety belt The belts of the front seats are fitted with automatic pretensioners, which are activated in the event of a severe frontal collision or very violent rear-end collision. They serve to reduce the forward movement of the body by tensioning the belt. The belt pretensioners do not activate in less severe frontal collisions, nor to side collisions, or rollovers.
Safety • Children who have grown out of a child seat should be restrained by the car’s standard three-point belts. Make sure that the shoulder belt is not in contact with the neck or throat. If it is, a booster seat/cushion may be necessary. IB817 Never fasten the safety belt with the shoulder belt behind the body or pull the belt off the shoulder and under the arm. IB1305 WARNING To fasten the belt Front seat belts Fasten the belt by pulling the belt and inserting the tongue in the buckle.
IB818 IB819 Safety The belt guide on the door pillar Belt guide The belt guide on the door pillar can be set to five different heights. Set the guide as high as possible without causing the belt to chafe against the throat. In the case of a short person the guide can be lowered until the belt comes about an inch (a few centimetres) from the throat but still provides safe restraint. Raise the belt guide by pushing it upwards to the desired position.
Safety Safety belts, rear seat (the central head restraint is an accessory) Safety belts, rear seat Three-point safety belts are provided for all three rear-seat passengers (2 for Convertible model). Fasten the belts by pulling the belt across you and inserting the tongue into the buckle. Check that it is securely fastened. Grasp the shoulder belt close to the buckle and pull the belt towards the shoulder to tighten the lap belt part. The belt must be as far in on the shoulder as possible.
Safety WARNING Safety belts are designed to bear upon the bony structure of the body, and should be worn low across the front of the pelvis or the pelvis, chest and shoulders, as applicable; wearing the lap section of the belt across the abdominal area must be avoided. Safety belts should be adjusted as firmly as possible, consistent with comfort, to provide the protection for which they have been designed. A loose belt will greatly reduce the protection afforded to the wearer.
Safety Child safety WARNING • Children must always be suitably restrained in the car. • NEVER put a child seat in the front. • Children 12 and under can be killed by the airbag. • The BACK SEAT is the SAFEST place for children. • Sit as far back as possible from the air bag. The same attention must be given to child safety in the car as is given to adults. Children travel most safely when properly restrained, but restraints must be suitable for the size of the child.
Safety 19 Child tether anchorages Child restraints with a tether strap must be anchored according to law. • Adult safety belts. • Harnesses. • Attaching other items or equipment to the vehicle. • Load securing device. Child tether anchorage, Coupé and 5door models. The tether strap is not a part of the child tether anchorage. IB1314 Child tether anchorages are designed to withstand only those loads imposed by correctly fitted child restraints.
Safety Integrated booster seat (accessory) Folding out 1 Press in the latches and lift and remove the car’s regular head restraint. Turn it 180° and remount it. Make certain that it is locked securely in place. 2 Lift up the booster seat’s headrest. 3 Pull out the upper part of the opener strap and lower the seat itself. Make certain that it is locked in the lowered position. IB825 Integrated booster seats are available as part of the rear seat backrest.
Safety Folding booster seat a Pull the upper part of the release strap out and fold up the seat itself. Make sure that it is locked firmly in its folded-up position. b Press the booster seat’s headrest all the way down. c Press in the latches on the car’s regular head restraint. Remove it, rotate it 180° and remount it. Make certain it is locked correctly. WARNING • Use only the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt system when restraining the child in the booster seat.
Safety Airbag (Supplemental Restraint System "SRS") WARNING • Children 12 and under or shorter than 55 inches (140 cm) should always travel in the rear as the vehicle is equipped with an airbag on the passenger side. The supplementary restraint system (SRS) comprises an airbag in the steering wheel, a front passenger airbag and side airbags in the front seats. The system supplements the protection provided by the safety belts to further enhance the safety of occupants.
Safety Operation of the airbag in a front-end collision. WARNING Moment of impact. • Even if the car is equipped with an SRS (airbag), safety belts must still always be worn by all occupants. Sensor detects retardation and sends a signal via the control module to a gas generator that inflates the airbag. The inflating airbag cushions the driver. Airbag now fully inflated. IB828 The steering column has collapsed and the airbag starts to deflate.
Safety Front passenger seat WARNING Never secure a rear-facing child seat in the right front seat of a car equipped with a passenger airbag. Inflation of the airbag in the event of an accident could seriously injure or kill a child. The airbags are interconnected and have a common warning light, AIR BAG. The passenger airbag module is housed in the fascia above the glove compartment and is marked ”SRS AIR BAG”.
Safety Scrapping or working on airbag and belt pretensioners WARNING • Under no circumstances should any modifications be made that affect the steering wheel or the airbag’s electrical circuitry. • Before starting any welding work on the car, always disconnect the negative (–) battery lead and cover the conductor. • Airbags and belt pretensioners must be deployed under controlled conditions before the car is scrapped or any of the system’s components are removed.
Safety How loud is the inflation? The noise of the inflation is certainly loud, but it is very short-lived and will not damage your hearing. For a short time afterwards you could experience a buzzing noise in your ears. Most people who have experienced it cannot remember the noise of the inflation at all - all they remember is the noise of the crash.
Safety 27 • For optimum protection, sit upright in the seat, with your safety belt correctly fastened. IB986 IB987 • The sensors for the side airbags are fitted in the doors. Side airbag Side airbags are housed inside the backrests of the front seats and are designed to protect the driver and front passenger in the event of a side impact.
Safety
Security 29 Security IB942 Doors................................. Central locking ................. Car alarm ..........................
Security Central locking 1 WARNING 2 Door handle Doors Opening handle Open the door by lifting the opening handle from below. If the door is stuck (e.g. if frozen), hold the handle from above to secure a better grip. 3 Key / Remote control The key fits all the locks on the car. The spare key without the black key grip only fits the door locks. The key supplied with the car has a code number on a black plastic tag that needs to be quoted for ordering additional keys.
Security 31 Locking/unlocking the car Locking / unlocking by remote control 1 To lock 2 To unlock Electronic starting interlock (immobilizer) Each time the key is removed from the ignition, the electronic starting interlock is activated and the car is thus immobilized, see also page 36. Press once on the control: all doors locked. The hazard warning lights will flash once to confirm. The trunk lid cannot be opened now from inside using the switch on the driver’s door.
Security The interior locking buttons on each door affect only the respective door on sedan. The driver´s door lock button will lock/unlock both on the Convertible. If the car is left with the doors open, the interior lighting will be switched off automatically after 20 minutes, to prevent a dead battery. Switch for operation of central locking The central locking can also be operated from inside the car by means of the switch on the center console (except on Convertibles).
Security 33 Child safety lock catch IB847 IB849 Battery type: Panasonic CR 2032, 3V lithium. Avoid putting fingerprints on the flat sides of the battery. Dispose of the old battery properly when you buy a new one. These batteries contain substances that are environmentally hazardous. Trunk switch 1 Engaged 2 Disengaged Child safety locks The rear doors have child safety locks that are activated by a button next to the door latch on the end of the rear doors.
Security Certain central lock-system functions can be reprogrammed by an authorized Saab dealer IB848 See page 231. Unlocking the trunk lid with the key If the car has an alarm, and it is armed (the car is locked), the alarm will sound if the trunk is unlocked with a key. However, if the trunk is opened using the remote control, the alarm will not be triggered. To lock The trunk is locked in the following ways: • When locking all the car’s doors with the button on the remote control.
Security Car alarm 1 WARNING 2 Leaving children or pets unattended in a locked car is dangerous. It is also dangerous to leave children in a vehicle with the ignition key. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. IB458 The car alarm (anti-theft system) is activated/deactivated when the car is locked/unlocked by the remote control or by the key. All the doors plus trunk lid and hood are monitored by microswitches, and window-glass sensors will trigger the alarm if any glass is broken.
Security Activating the car alarm Window glass sensor The car alarm (anti-theft system) is activated/deactivated when the car is locked/unlocked by the remote control or by the key. The car alarm cannot be activated if the driver’s door is open or if the ignition switch is in position ON. If, on the other hand, one of the other doors or the trunk or hood is open or opened and not closed again during the 10-seconds delay period, it will be excluded from the alarm function.
Security Alarm signals When the car alarm is armed, it will be triggered if any door, the trunk lid or hood, is opened, or if a window is broken. The alarm will also be triggered if an attempt is made to bypass or short-circuit the ignition switch, or to disconnect the battery. If the alarm is triggered, the following alarm signals will be set off: • Flashing of hazard warning lights for five minutes. • Siren wailing for 30 seconds.
Security Overview of functions Locking/ activation Hazard warning lights flash once (0.5 seconds). Horn chirps once. The LED will come on for 10 seconds. Unlocking/ deactivation Hazard warning lights flash twice. Horn chirps twice. The LED will come on for two seconds. Unlocking/ deactivation of trunk lid alarm Hazard warning lights flash three times. Horn chirps three times. The LED will flash three times per second for 10 seconds.
Security 39 Overview of, LED signals and SID messages Status LED signal Activation (during 10-second delay). Comes on for 10 seconds. Alarm activated (after delay). Flashes once every third second. Deactivation. Comes on for 2 seconds. Alarm not activated. Off. Door, trunk lid or hood open or opened during delay period. Flashes three times per second for 10 seconds. Unlocking the trunk lid. Flashes three times per second for 10 seconds. Closing of door, trunk lid or hood after delay period.
Security This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user´s authority to operate the equipment. Canada only: This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada.
Convertible 41 IB1361 Convertible General safety instructions ................................ Folding the soft top ......... Raising the soft top ......... Manual raising of the soft top ................................... Fault messages in SID..... Central operation of the windows, 9-3 Convertible Trunk, 9-3 Convertible ..... Cleaning the soft top, 9-3 Convertible ..................... Interior lighting................. Manually opening the fuel filler door ........................
Convertible Convertible General safety instructions • Never touch the hinges and struts of the soft top nor the upper beam of the windshield while operating the soft top. • After raising the soft top, always check that it is properly secured to the top beam of the windshield with the soft top locking device before driving the car away. After folding it down you should check that the tonneau cover latches have engaged properly. Otherwise it may come loose while you are driving and cause injury.
Convertible 43 Folding the soft top Before operating the soft top, read through the section ” General safety instructions” on page 42. WARNING • Do not touch the hinges or struts of the soft top during folding, because of the pinch hazard. • Do not operate the soft top with passengers in the rear seat or bystanders right next to the car, because of the risk of head injuries. NOTE If you drive away while the soft top is being raised or lowered it will stop when the car exceeds 6 mph (10 km/h).
Convertible IB839 IB838 1 The rear window is raised. 2 The tonneau cover is opened. 3 Roof and rear window are folded down. Switch for operating the soft top 3 Slide the ROOF button backwards until the soft top is completely folded away, the tonneau cover is closed and the SID has given an OK signal (beep). Slide the ROOF button backwards a second time to lower the windows. 4 Check that there are no fault messages on the SID; see page 48. IB936 1 Lowering 2 Raising 4 Tonneau cover is closed.
Convertible 45 1 4 2 IB840 3 Raising the soft top WARNING • Do not touch the hinges or struts of the soft top during rasing the top, because of the danger of being injured. • Do not operate the soft top with passengers in the rear seat or bystanders right next to the car, because of the risk of head injuries. IB841 The front-edge locking of the tonneau cover Locking handle 1 Pull the handle out and lift it 2 Push the handle in 1 Start the engine and let it idle.
Convertible 4 Raise the side windows by sliding the ROOF button forward a second time. Alternatively, use the central operating switch for the side windows. 5 Check that there are no fault messages on the SID; see page 48. Manual raising of the soft top Manual operation of the soft top must be resorted to only to raise it in an emergency (e.g. in case of an electrical or hydraulic fault).
IB939 Convertible Manual raising of the soft top 9 (ill. 1) Stand at the side of the car and open the tonneau cover by grasping its black part. 10 (ill. 2) Get into the car and stand on the lowered backrest. WARNING Do not touch the hinges and struts of the soft top during raising. Keep your hands clear of the upper beam of the windshield - this is a pinch hazard area. Do not operate the soft top with passengers in the rear seat or with bystanders right next to the car. 11 (ill.
Convertible Fault messages in SID The following CHECK messages are included in the soft top system and can be displayed on the SID together with a beep. SID displays Cause Action CHECK SOFT • The soft top storage bag is hooked up. TOP STORAGE • An item in the trunk under the soft top is obstructing the soft top. • Unhook and lower the soft top storage bag, see page 50. • Make sure that no item in the trunk is lying against the soft top storage.
Convertible Central operation of the windows, 9-3 Convertible On the center console is a switch (see illustration) for the simultaneous closing or opening of the four side windows. Using the ROOF-button When folding the soft top down, you can lower all windows by continuing to hold the ROOF button backwards after the soft top has been folded down. When the soft top is being raised, all side windows are automatically lowered an inch or two (a few centimetres) to protect their seals.
Convertible Trunk lid lock Unlocking the trunk lid by using the remote trunk release button on the driver’s door is possible only when the top is fully lowered or raised (note that the ignition must be in position ON when the top is lowered). Suspending top bag Trunk, 9-3 Convertible Hooking up top storage bag More space in the trunk can be obtained by lifting the top storage bag up by the straps under it and hooking them in the eyelets at the top of the bag.
Convertible Cleaning the soft top, 9-3 Convertible NOTE The trunk pass-through can only be used when the top is raised. NOTE A trunk pass-through is provided in the rear seatback support so that long narrow objects can be carried. Before using this trunk pass-through, the rear seatback must be lowered. Suspend the top storage bag by means of the hooks as previously described on page. 50.
Convertible Use mild soap, lukewarm water and a sponge for washing. Rinse the top thoroughly with plain water to get rid of all the soap. Flush the cleaning agent off the bodywork as well, since it can cause discoloration if it is left to dry on the paintwork. If further cleaning is needed after soap and water have been used, a mild shampoo may be employed. First rinse the soft top, then use shampoo on the complete top and scrub with a small soft hand brush.
Instruments and controls IB946 Warning and indicator lights ............................... Instruments ...................... Trip computer SID............ Switches ........................... Wipers and washers ........ Manual climate-control system............................. Automatic climate control (ACC) ...............................
Instruments and controls Warning and indicator lights Main instrument panel A number of warning and indicator lights will come on when the ignition is switched on prior to starting (see page 58). Under normal conditions, these should go out a few seconds after the engine has started.
Instruments and controls Warning charging This light comes on together with if the battery is not charging. If it comes on while you are driving, stop the car as soon as possible and switch off the engine. Check the alternator drive belt (see page 179). If the belt has broken, the engine may overheat (cooling system will not function properly), the belt is slack or broken, battery charging will be poor and engine cooling unsatisfactory.
Instruments and controls Anti-lock brake warning This light together with and indicates that a fault has occurred in the ABS system. Conventional braking without the ABS function will still be available. For safety reasons, stop the car and check the level of the brake fluid (see page 176). If the level is normal, depress the brake pedal firmly two or three times. Now check the level again.
Instruments and controls Central warning light This light comes on and a chime will sound if a fault has been detected in any system that is critical to safety. Any of the following can activate the central warning light and alarm: • Airbag system. • Low oil pressure in engine. • Parking brake is on (when car is moving). • Brake fluid level low. • Fault detected in ABS system. • Engine overheating. • Alternator not charging properly.
Instruments and controls CHECK message indicator This light indicates that there is a message in the SID. A chime will also sound (see page 63). Automatic transmission fault indicator On a car with an automatic transmission, this warning symbol is illuminated if a fault has been detected in the transmission. Switch the ignition off and on again to check if the fault persists. Even if the fault persists, it is still possible in most cases to drive the car (see page 144).
Instruments Tachometer The tachometer indicates the engine speed in thousands of revolutions per minute. The needle may be allowed to enter the broken red zone on the dial only for an instant. A safety cut-out function (in the fuel system) prevents the engine speed exceeding approximately 6,200 rpm (2.0 Turbo) and 6,400 rpm (2.3 Turbo). Odometer and trip meter The odometer records the distance travelled in miles on U.S.
Instruments and controls Temperature gauge The temperature gauge shows the temperature of the coolant. The needle should be in the middle of the scale when the engine is at normal operating temperature. If the needle enters the red zone, the warning light will come on and an alarm chime will sound. If the needle approaches the red zone, which can occur in very hot weather or when the engine is under a heavy load, drive in the highest gear possible, keep the engine revs low and avoid shifting down.
Fuel gauge The fuel-tank capacity is 17.0 gal. (64 liters). The fuel gauge shows the amount of fuel left in the tank. When this is down to about 2.5 gal. (10 liters), a warning light on the main instrument panel will come on (see page 56). Use the Saab Information display (SID) to check the approximate distance that can be travelled on the remaining fuel (see page 62). Refueling; see page 138.
Instruments and controls Trip computer SID Outside temperature (warning of slippery conditions) The car is equipped with SID (Saab Information Display). This instrument contains a varying number of functions depending on the standard of equipment and the model variant. SID 2 displays CHECK messages and has four trip-computer functions. SID 3 displays CHECK messages and has eight trip-computer functions; see page 65.
Instruments and controls CHECK messages When the engine is started, CHECKING will appear on the display for about four seconds, while the SID checks are being performed. When a CHECK message is generated while the car is being driven, a chime will sound, INFO DISPL will illuminate on the main instrument panel, and the message will appear on the SID. The number of messages that can be displayed by the SID varies with the specification of the car.
Instruments and controls • If the speed of the car exceeds 84 mph (135 km/h), the entire speedometer will be illuminated. • In cars with automatic transmission, if the selector lever is moved from D to position 3, 2 or 1, the selector indication on the main instrument panel will be illuminated. To restore the displays and lighting to the normal mode, press the Night-Panel button. Units and language versions The SID has four sets of units: METRIC IMP. 1 IMP.
Instruments and controls SID 3 (SCC) Entering values for the functions Values can be entered for the following functions: SPD ∅ (SPEED AVERAGE), DIST, ARRIV, ALARM and SPD W. Selecting the function Use the button to scroll through the following functions: DIST Distance to destination / Trip meter. ARRIV Estimated time of arrival. ALARM Alarm function. SPD W Speed warning (chime). Use the button to scroll through the following functions: TEMP Outdoor temperature and Date. D.T.E.
Instruments and controls Setting the date 1 Use to select TEMP/DATE. 2 Press the SET button for at least one second (year starts to flash and a chime sounds). 3 4 5 6 7 8 Set the year using or . Touch SET. Set the month in the same way. Touch SET. Set the day in the same way. Press SET to save the date setting. Turning the Alarm and Speed warning on or off Calculation of arrival time and average speed 1 Select the Alarm or Speed-warning function. 2 Press SET to turn on the function.
Instruments and controls Using DIST as a trip meter If no value has been set for the DIST function, DIST will now function as a trip meter (indicated by an arrow on the far right of the display). Press CLR to reset the trip meter. Under 1000 miles the distance will be shown in increments of 0.1 miles, there-after, the reading will change in increments of 1.0 miles.
Instruments and controls Resetting values To reset the values, press CLR for at least four seconds. The following functions will be reset simultaneously: • Estimated range on remaining fuel (function based on a fuel consumption of 28 mpg) • Average fuel consumption • Average speed • Arrival time (function based on current speed) Programmed values for DIST, ALARM and SPD W will not be reset (see the respective function).
Instruments and controls Night panel To improve night-driving conditions inside the car, the Night Panel mode can be selected. In this mode, the amount of information displayed is reduced, and only the most important instruments and displays will be illuminated. When the Night Panel button is pressed, only the speedometer will be illuminated (up to the 87-mph or 140-km/h graduation), all the other instruments illumination will be extinguished and their needles moved to zero.
Instruments and controls Selecting units and language 2 Press or units. 3 Touch SET. to select the required 4 Press or language. 5 Touch SET. to select the required IB964 1 Press the CLR and SET buttons at the same time for 4 seconds until an audible signal sounds. Clock Set the clock by means of the two small buttons under the digital clock on the left of the display. Programming features, see page 231.
Instruments and controls 71 Switches IB745 The parking lights and daytime running lights come on automatically when the ignition switch is in the ON position. Note to owners in the U.S.: If you do not want Daytime Running Lights, this feature can be disconnected: switch off the engine and remove fuse No. 15 (see page 189). Note to owners in Canada: Daytime Running Lights must not be disconnected as they are a Canadian Federal legal requirement.
Instruments and controls Courtesy Headlamp Feature Turn signal & lane change indicators 1 Right indicators 2 Left indicators Turn signal & lane change indicators To switch on the indicators, move the stalk up or down. The stalk has fixed positions for indicating a right or left turn, and the indicators are cancelled automatically (stalk returns to off position) after most turns. The stalk also has an intermediate, spring-loaded position that is useful for signalling when changing lanes or passing.
Instruments and controls 73 IB750 Switch on the hazard flashers if the car has to be left at the roadside on account of an accident, engine trouble or a flat tire. If you carry a warning triangle or flares, they should be set up along side of the road 300 ft. (100 m) behind your vehicle. If the car is not clearly visible (e.g. over the brow of a hill or bridge), place the triangle/flare even further back.
Instruments and controls Wipers and washers Windshield wipers The delay of the intermittent operation can be adjusted to between 2 and 15 seconds. Moving the control stalk to the spring-loaded position between 0 and 2 will produce a single sweep of the wipers. Instrument lighting The brightness of the instrument lighting can be varied by means of the dimmer switch adjacent to the headlight switch, the ignition switch shall be in position ON. (See also Night panel on page 69).
Instruments and controls 75 Rear-window wiper Control for setting wiper delay 1 Long delay 2 Short delay The position gives washing and wiping. After a few sweeps the wiper stops, or reverts to intermittent wiping if this has been selected. When washing/wiping of the rear window ends, the wiper makes a single sweep after about 15 seconds to wipe away any remaining washer fluid. Moving the control stalk to the spring-loaded position between OFF and ON will produce a single sweep of the wipers.
Instruments and controls Manual climate-control system IB755 IB032 The air is drawn in through an intake at the bottom edge of the windshield. It passes through an efficient filter before being routed through the climate-control system and into the cabin. The cabin discharge vent is located on the right behind the rear bumper. The air discharge vents should be kept free of snow and ice in the winter. Fan The rate of air flow inside the car is controlled by means of the fan switch.
Instruments and controls 77 IB762 Settings for various weather conditions Winter - defroster IB983 Defroster Winter - comfort inc. rear side windows IB984 Floor Summer - cloudy Panel incl. rear center vent IB985 As the winter comfort setting we recommend that the distribution knob be turned two steps to the left from the Defroster position.
Instruments and controls Air conditioning (A/C) IB794 The air conditioning is combined with the conventional climate-control system and is Air vent at rear side window switched on by pressing the button, provided that the fan control is in position 1-4. The incoming air is treated in three stages: first it passes through a filter; it is then dehumidified and cooled and, finally, if required, heated. The air conditioning can be used at outdoor temperatures down to 32°F (0°C).
Instruments and controls Electrically heated rear window/external mirrors The button is located on the climate-control panel. An LED in the button is lit as long as heating is on. Switch off the heating as soon as the rear window is clear. It will go off automatically after about 10 minutes. If the battery voltage is lower than 12 V the heating will be switched off earlier so that the battery can get the benefit of the alternator charge.
Instruments and controls IB794 The air is drawn in through an intake at the bottom edge of the windshield. It passes through an efficient filter before being routed through the climate-control system and into the cabin. The cabin discharge vent is located on the right behind the rear bumper. The air discharge vents should be kept free of snow and ice in the winter. ACC (Automatic Climate Control) automatically maintains the desired cabin temperature, regardless of the weather outside.
Instruments and controls The system uses five sensors: Condensation water • • • • When the A/C compressor is on, the incoming air is dehumidified. The resulting condensation water is drained away through an outlet under the car. It is therefore perfectly normal for water to be seen dripping from this outlet when the car is parked. The warmer the ambient air and the higher the humidity, the more condensation will form. IB763 Outside-air temperature. Cabin-air temperature. Sun sensor.
Instruments and controls IB764 Button Functions The function you have manually selected will be locked in, while other functions remain automatic. Temperature maintenance, except in positions HI and LO, is, therefore always automatic. The active function is shown in the display. A manual selection is cancelled by pressing AUTO or by repeated pressing of the button used to make the manual choice. For further functions, see ”Programming II”, page 87.
Instruments and controls Button Display Button One touch: When Defroster is manually selected you will get demisting of all windows (the air flow to the rear side windows will be shut off) by high fan speed. Air will be routed to the defroster nozzles. Normal temperature control, recirculation and ECON will be switched off but the electric heating of the rear window and outside mirrors will be switched on. Current settings will be shown on the display and AUTO will go out.
Button Press simultaneously Instruments and controls Display Button Display Recirculation is controlled automatically, but there is also manual ON/OFF control. Panel - floor (front and rear) and center rear vent Electrically heated rear window/electrically heated door mirrors are controlled automatically, though they can also be programmed for manual control; see ”Programming II”, page 87. The temperature, air distribution and fan speed will still be controlled automatically.
Instruments and controls Starting in hot weather: The automatic climate control system selects air to the panel vents and high fan speed. Recirculation is switched on about 30 seconds after starting if the selected cabin temperature is markedly lower than the actual temperature. Unless the ECON button has been depressed, the A/C compressor is always switched on at outside temperatures above 32°F (0°C) in order to cool and dehumidify the incoming air, unless the ECON button has been depressed.
Instruments and controls Calibration Programming I If the battery has been disconnected or has run flat, the system will recalibrate automatically. Manual calibration: 1 Start the engine. The manual selections you have made can be saved so that the ACC system always starts up on these selections every time the ignition is switched on. But notice that the ignition must have been off for at least 10 minutes before you try out the saved setting. 2 Press + at the same time.
Instruments and controls Programming II It is also possible to customize the ACC system to adapt to driving and weather conditions. Function Operation in AUTO mode Standard operation in after Programming II AUTO mode The A/C compressor is not switched on until the outside temperature goes above +55°F (+13°C). – This function can be used to save fuel, since the A/C compressor will not be in action for so long a time.
Instruments and controls Useful tips: ACC - 9-3 Convertible If the ACC system is not functioning satisfactorily the following should be tried before you take the car to an authorized Saab dealer. When the soft top is folded down the ACC system goes over to manual temperature setting. Between HI and LO there are eleven (0-10) fixed temperature steps.
Saab 9-3 Audio System 89 IB1194 Saab 9-3 Audio System Quick guide to the Saab 9-3 Audio System ........... Sound controls................. Radio ................................. Cassette player ................ CD player .......................... CD changer....................... General functions ............ Steering-wheel controls .. Security lock..................... Technical data .................. Installation of car phone (option)............................ Fault codes .......................
Saab 9-3 Audio System Saab 9-3 Audio System The Saab 9-3 Audio System comes in two levels, Premium and Prestige. They are specially adapted to the cabin space in the Saab 9-3. The Saab 9-3 Audio System consists of a main unit with a radio and a cassette player. There is a also a CD player and a CD changer for 6 CD discs available as an accessory. The Premium Audio System has two loudspeakers at the front and two at the rear. Output is 4x20 watts.
Saab 9-3 Audio System Quick guide to the Saab 9-3 Audio System 1 2 3 4 5 6 91 Preset station buttons Press once: play the preset station. Press and hold briefly: store a new station. Radio, see page 94 PUSH ON BAS VOL TRE PULL BAL FAD On To switch the system ON, press the volume button. The last settings used will be activated.
Saab 9-3 Audio System Cassette player. See page 96 TAPE CD player. See page 99 Touch: choice of play when another sound source is active. Touch: change to CD playback when other sound source is active. Press and hold briefly: random playback. CD RDM Changing cassette side. Touch: SEEK at either end to change track. Press and hold briefly: fast playback or fast track changes. Touch center on SEEK: change between functions fast playback (PLAY) and fast track changes (TRACK).
Saab 9-3 Audio System 93 Sound controls ON/OFF The Audio System will come on: • When the volume control is pressed. • When the ignition key is removed. • One hour after the ignition was switched OFF, if the ignition key has not been removed. • When one hour has elapsed since a control button was pressed if the Audio system was switched on when the ignition key was not in the switch. VOL - Volume BAL - Balance Pull out and rotate the VOL control to adjust the balance between the left and right speakers.
Saab 9-3 Audio System Radio Press the RADIO/BAND button (3) to switch to the radio when another source is active. Preset station buttons (1) The small figure on the far right of the display is the number of the preset button selected. Presetting a station Press the desired button and hold it down for more than a second to store the currently tuned station. During this time, the radio will be mute. The sound will return as soon as the station has been stored.
Saab 9-3 Audio System 95 IB1166 Press and hold the AS button for more than a second to initiate an automatic search for the six strongest stations. Each time the system finds and stores a station, the number on the far right of the SID display will change. If the system cannot find six stations with good reception, the remaining preset buttons will be empty. If one of these empty buttons is pressed, FM or AM**** will appear on the display.
Saab 9-3 Audio System Cassette player Before playing a tape, make sure that the label is secure and that the cassette is not warped, otherwise the cassette can become jammed in the deck. The cassette player senses automatically whether the tape is normal or metal (Type I or Type II). TAPE (1) Turn on the cassette player by pressing TAPE Playback direction (2) To play the other side of the tape, press .
Saab 9-3 Audio System 97 Music search forward/reverse (5) Fast forward/rewind Auto music search (Blank skip) To search forward for a track, press SEEK >> and release quickly (within half a second). The following will now appear on the display: Press and hold SEEK >> to start fastforward to the end of the tape. The following will now appear on the display: To switch the Blank-skip function ON/OFF, press and hold SEEK (mid-segment).
Saab 9-3 Audio System Type II (metal) tapes Tape care The cassette has an automatic tape-type selector. Do not expose cassette tapes to direct sunlight or to extremes of temperature as this can damage the cassette and the tape. Always keep cassettes in their boxes when not in use. If a cassette should become jammed in the deck, seek help from an authorized Saab dealer.
Saab 9-3 Audio System 99 CD player (option) A tiny, amber-colored LED indicator to the left of the disc tray is illuminated when a disc is loaded. When all the tracks have been played, the CD player will restart playback from track 1. To cancel playback, press the eject or RADIO button. IB1165 To select the CD mode, load a CD into the deck or, if one is already loaded, press the CD/RDM button. Insert the CD, label-side up, and allow the mechanism to load it automatically.
Saab 9-3 Audio System Fast track changes Touch SEEK (mid-segment) to switch between the CD PLAY and CD TRACK modes. CD PLAY Pressing and holding << SEEK or SEEK >> starts Rapid play. CD TRACK Pressing and holding << SEEK or SEEK >> activates track changes. IB1165 The CD PLAY and CD TRACK modes change the function of << SEEK and SEEK >>. The selected mode will also be active the next time the system is switched on.
Saab 9-3 Audio System CD changer 101 3 (option/accessory) 4 IB383 1 Slide the cover back. 2 The CD magazine will automatically eject after it has retrieved all discs. 3 Press the catch on the magazine to one side. 4 Withdraw one CD tray at a time and swap or load the CD (label side up). Slide the tray back into the magazine. Note the position of the magazine for loading (see picture). Insert the entire magazine carefully inside the CD changer and slide the cover closed again.
Saab 9-3 Audio System If the CD changer is activated immediately after a magazine has been loaded, the following will appear on the display: IB1164 The CD number will change as each CD is played. After a magazine has been loaded, playback will start with the first track on the first CD when the CD changer is selected, and the following will appear on the display: Selecting CDs (1) When the CD changer is operating, the radio preset buttons work for the six CDs in the magazine.
Saab 9-3 Audio System After two seconds, the status of the trays in the magazine (i.e. loaded or empty) will be shown on the display, e.g.: If for some reason the CD selected by the preset button cannot be played, playback of the current CD will continue. Track change (2) Touch << SEEK or SEEK >> repeatedly to move to preceding or following tracks. Pressing << SEEK once will restart playback from the beginning of the current track. Thus, to play the preceding track, touch << SEEK twice.
Saab 9-3 Audio System General functions • Maximum START VOL WARNING These functions should only be carried out when the car is stationary. Volume-preset mode To select the volume-preset mode, press and hold the WB button at the same time as you switch the Audio System on. Use the << SEEK >> button to select the required function. The following volume settings can be preselected: • START VOL - maximum volume level when the Audio System is switched on.
Saab 9-3 Audio System Steering-wheel controls Security lock The Audio System is equipped with an electronic security lock. The special code is unique to the car in which the Audio System is fitted. Each time the Audio System is switched on, a check is made to ensure that the codes match. If not, the following will appear on the display: To facilitate use of the Audio System and to promote safer driving, most of the functions can be operated using the integral remote controls on the steering wheel.
Saab 9-3 Audio System Technical data Tone controls Bass _________________________ Treble ________________________ Power output __________________ Radio module Radio system __________________ Number of presets FM __________________________ AM __________________________ Frequency range FM __________________________ AM __________________________ WB___________________________ Scanning steps Automatic seek tuning: ___________ ±12 dB at 40 Hz ±10 dB at 15,000 Hz 4 x 20 W (4 x 12 W at 1% THD (total harmoni
IB979 IB977 IB978 Saab 9-3 Audio System Multipath interference Shadow effect Sources of FM interference When the radio waves from an FM transmitter collide with a large building, for example, they will be reflected so that they reach the car antenna slightly later than the direct waves. This is referred to as multipath distortion. The effect is liable to be blamed upon malfunctions in the radio.
Saab 9-3 Audio System AM IB388 IB980 FM IB981 108 Cross-modulation Radio waves, FM/AM Sources of AM interference When the radio is tuned to a weak transmitter in the vicinity of a stronger one, the car’s antennas will receive signals from both. Such interference is apparent when the unwanted broadcast can be heard faintly in the background. FM radio waves radiate in straight lines from the transmitter.
Saab 9-3 Audio System Installation of car phone (option) WARNING To prevent crashes while using a cell phone: • Do not use the cell phone in distracting traffic situations. Turn it off if traffic is heavy. • Dial sensibly, at a stoplight or safely off the road. • Consider installing hands-free or speaker phone. • Avoid stressful and intense phone conversations. NOTE The A-pillar area (area beside the windshield) and the headlining of your Saab contain padding designed to reduce head injuries.
Saab 9-3 Audio System Mobile phones and communications radios Mobile phones and communications radios that do not have a separate external antenna radiate an electromagnetic field inside the car. WARNING The electromagnetic field inside the car can be detrimental to your health. NOTE The electromagnetic field can cause interference with other electrical systems in the car, such as the Audio System.
Interior equipment, trunk 111 IB941 Interior equipment, trunk Seats ................................. Steering-wheel adjustment ................................ Electrical windows........... Sunroof (option)............... Interior lighting................. Cup holder ........................ Ashtrays (accessory)....... Glove compartment ......... Rear-view mirrors ............ Trunk, Coupé and 5-door Tools and spare wheel .... Manually opening the fuel filler door ........................
Interior equipment, trunk Seats WARNING Never adjust the driver’s seat except when the car is stationary. Side airbags (SRS) See page 27. IB801 • Height (driver´s seat). • Legroom. • Backrest rake angle. • Lumbar support. • Head-restraint height. We recommend that adjustments to the driver’s seat be performed in the following order: 1 Height. 2 Legroom. 3 Backrest rake angle. Lastly, adjust the steering wheel (see page 118).
Interior equipment, trunk 113 WARNING The backrest should be upright during driving, so that the safety belt, airbag and backrest can provide optimum protection in the event of emergency braking or a collision. Center armrest IB802 IB804 Certain models have a foldable center armrest that is attached to the driver´s seat. Adjusting the backrest Lumbar support 1 Catch, backrest (Coupé and Convertible versions) Turn the smaller knob for stepless adjustment of the lumbar support.
Interior equipment, trunk Head restraint Front seats, Coupé and Convertible versions Both front seats have release levers on the outside of the backrest. The passenger seat also has a release on the inside of the backrest so that the driver can tilt the backrest for the convenience of rear-seat passengers. Raise the release levers to tip the backrest forward. IB629 The front seats in the Saab 9-3 are equipped with Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHRs).
Interior equipment, trunk Manual seats have a feature called ”Easy Entry”, which facilitates movement to and from the rear seat. Activate ”Easy Entry” as follows: 1 Raise the release lever and hold it in its uppermost position until the backrest is tipped forward. 2 Slide the seat forward. The whole seat is now shifted to its forward position. Resetting: 1 Slide the seat back to the desired position. 2 Fold the backrest to the upright position. Lock the front to rear seat adjustment.
Interior equipment, trunk Electrically adjustable front seats (certain variants) Both seats can be operated from outside when one of the front doors is opened, to improve access to the car. For safety reasons, if the door is closed, the seat can only be adjusted when the ignition is ON. Note, that both front seats can be adjusted up to 30 seconds after the door has been closed. Bear in mind that children can be injured if they play with the electrically-operated seats.
Interior equipment, trunk 117 Memory function (certain variants) Backrest rake angle Push the rear lever forward or rearward to adjust the rake angle of the backrest. 1 Make the desired adjustments to the seat setting. 2 Store the setting of the seat by keeping the ”M” depressed and at the same time pressing one of the memory buttons, 1, 2 or 3. The SID will acknowledge storage with a chime.
Electrically heated front seats (option on some model variants/markets) Both front seats incorporate heating for the seat cushion and backrest. It is switched on and off using the buttons on the instrument panel. The heating is thermostatically controlled. It comes on when the temperature of the seat cushion goes below 79°F (26°C) and turns off when it reaches 97°F (36°C). Shut off the heating once the seat is warm.
Interior equipment, trunk 119 Electrical windows • Bear in mind the pinch hazard when the side windows are being raised. Make sure that all passengers keep their heads, hands and fingers clear of the window openings before you begin raising the windows. • Always remove the ignition key when leaving the car to avoid the danger of injury arising from unattended children operating the windows. The electric window motors are equipped with overload protection.
Sunroof (option) The sunroof is operated electrically using the ROOF control on the center console. The sunroof can be opened completely or partially. As soon as you release the control the sunroof stops. 1 If you wish to open the sunroof all the way from the closed position, proceed as follows: • To open: slide the control rearwards. • To close: slide the control forwards. 2 You also have the option of opening the rear edge of the sunroof from the closed position for the purpose of ventilation.
Rear-seat lighting 1 Interior lighting is off 2 Lighting comes on when a door is opened 3 Interior lighting on continuously Interior lighting The interior lighting consists of one dome light in the front and one in the back. The switch for the interior lighting is on the overhead panel next to the rearview mirror. When the switch is in the mid-position (door-activated), the interior lighting will come on: • When the car is unlocked from outside. • When any door is opened with the ignition off.
Sun visor with vanity mirror Cup holder There are two cupholders, one in the fascia under the SID unit and one in the center-console compartment between the front seats on certain models. Next to the cup holder between the front seats is a coin tray.
Front ashtray Rear ashtray 123 IB835 IB836 IB834 Interior equipment, trunk Glove compartment 1 To unlock 2 To lock Ashtrays (accessory) The car is equipped with two ashtrays. One is positioned low down on the dash and the other on the back of the center console. Open the front ashtray by lightly pressing on the front. Remove it by depressing the catch on the underside. You do not need to open it in order to take it out. To replace it, just push it straight in.
Rear-view mirror Adjusting the door mirrors 1 Day position 2 Night position 1 Select mirror 2 Use touch pad to adjust mirror Rear-view mirrors The rear-view mirror has day/night positions that can be selected by means of a knob beneath the mirror. Adjust the mirror for best vision in the day position and pull the tab on the bottom of the mirror toward you for the night position. Door mirrors The door mirrors are electrically adjustable. The controls are on the driver’s door.
Interior equipment, trunk 125 Trunk, Coupé and 5-door WARNING When the entire rear seat has been lowered, you must remove the rear window shelf. Otherwise it could come loose and cause personal injury during a collision. Trunk lid lock Unlock the trunk lid by pressing the lower button on the remote transmitter, by pressing the remote release button on the driver’s door or by using the key. The alarm horn sounds three times and the lights flash when the trunk is released with the remote control.
Interior equipment, trunk 4 Lower the entire backrest cushion by pulling this same handle (item 3) forward. At the same time, pivot the beam backwards. IMPORTANT: When you replace the belt beam using the handle (item 3), you must verify that it is properly locked and that the two red "warning tabs" go down (thereby indicating that locking has taken place properly). 5 To increase the volume, the rear head restraints can be removed before the backrest cushion is lowered.
Interior equipment, trunk 127 To provide more flexibility, the rear seat is divided so that you can lower the narrower (right) part separately. IB1308 1 Tilt the seat cushion forward by pulling the loop located between the backrest and the seat cushion. 2 Stand the seat cushion on end behind the front seats. 3 Release the right backrest cushion by means of the latch on the belt beam’s right side just behind the head restraint. 4 Lower the right backrest cushion.
Interior equipment, trunk Removing the parcel shelf 1 Open the trunk lid. 2 Unhook the rubber ties. 3 Lift the rear parcel shelf and pull it away from the guide pins in the front edge of the shelf support. IB090 IB853 128 Load opening (trunk pass through) A load opening is provided in the backrest so that you can carry long narrow objects. Switch off the engine and set the parking brake before loading or unloading long objects.
Interior equipment, trunk WARNING IB854 Load opening: Tie downs Four tie downs for securing the load are fitted inside the trunk. Place the load as far in as possible. Trunk lighting To the left in the trunk is a light which goes on and off when the trunk lid is opened and closed. The lighting can also be turned on and off using the button on the light housing. If the trunk lid is left open, the lighting will go off after 20 minutes to prevent the battery from being drained.
IB1259 Interior equipment, trunk IB858 130 Tools and spare wheel Rear spoiler, Saab 9-3 Viggen Coupé and 5-door The tool kit and compact spare wheel are kept beneath the carpeting in the trunk. WARNING Saab 9-3 Viggen Coupé and 5-door: Avoid placing your hands on the upper part of the rear fender when the tailgate is to be closed because of the risk of getting finger caught between the spoiler and the fender.
Interior equipment, trunk Manually opening the fuel filler door If the fuel filler door (which is controlled by the central locking system) does not unlock, proceed as follows. Check fuse 20. If it is blown or its replacement blows, you can release the lock motor from the door as follows: 1 Use a sharp knife to release the pre-cut rectangle on the right in the upholstery in the trunk so that you can access the two retaining screws that secure the lock motor to the fuel filler door.
Interior equipment, trunk
Starting and driving 133 IB943 Starting and driving Ignition switch ................. Starting the engine.......... Important considerations for driving....................... Engine Break-in Period... Gear changing ................. Manual transmission ...... Automatic transmission . Cruise Control ................. Braking ............................. Parking ............................. Economical motoring ..... 134 135 136 140 141 141 141 148 149 151 153 Driving in cold weather ...
Starting and driving IB862 LOCK position Put the gear lever in reverse and turn the ignition key to the LOCK position. For cars with automatic transmission, select the Parking (P) position and turn the ignition key to the LOCK position. The gear lever is now locked. The key can only be removed when the gear lever is in this position. The parking lights, the hazard warning lights and the interior lighting can still be illuminated.
Starting and driving Starting the engine WARNING • Always remove the key before leaving the car. • Always apply the parking brake before removing the ignition key. NOTE Take care not to spill drinks or to drop crumbs over the ignition switch. If dirt or liquid gets into it, the switch may not operate properly.
Starting and driving Useful tips on cold climate starting If the engine has failed to start after several attempts in very cold weather, press and hold the accelerator down to the floor and run the starter for 5–10 seconds. This will prevent the engine being flooded (excessively rich fuel-air mixture). Now start the engine in the normal way – do not touch the accelerator. If the engine stalls immediately after starting (e.g.
Starting and driving NOTE If constant knocking occurs every time a load is put on the engine, this indicates a malfunction in the system. Have the car checked without delay by an authorized Saab dealer.
Starting and driving Stop jump-starting if the engine fails to start immediately. NOTE If the car runs out of fuel, it is possible for air to get into the fuel system. If this happens, the catalytic converter may overheat and be damaged. • Failure to follow these directions could result in the catalytic converter and associated components being damaged, and could represent a breach of the warranty conditions. Refueling Ensure that you are using the correct grade of fuel, unleaded AON 87-93.
Starting and driving NOTE Recommended fuel: • Fill to maximum filling capacity The engine in your Saab 9-3 is designed to operate on unleaded gasoline that has an octane rating of: • Stop filling after the first time that the nozzle trips to shut off the flow of fuel • Filling capacity can differ between different fuel stations and outside temperature. Fuel tank volume when nozzle trips to shut off, may vary by 0.5 gal. (2 liters). • AON 90 (minimum 87) for 185 hp engines.
Starting and driving ommended blend percentages and service station operators should know if their gasolines contain detergents and oxygenates, and have been reformulated to reduce vehicle emissions. Nevertheless, if you begin to notice a problem with the way your car starts or runs shortly after it has been refueled, try a different brand of gasoline.
Starting and driving Gear changing Automatic transmission Manual transmission NOTE When the reverse gear is to be engaged the car must be at a standstill with the accelerator fully released. Lift the reverse lock-out collar and push the gear lever firmly to the right in neutral before easing it into reverse. WARNING IB864 To start the engine the clutch pedal must be fully depressed. The gear positions are marked on the gear lever.
Starting and driving 1 Catch 2 Button for SPORT position 3 Button for WINTER position The electronic control module for the automatic transmission receives information on engine torque and road speed. It also controls the hydraulic pressure in the transmission to ensure that gear changing is as smooth as possible. The position of the selector lever is shown by the symbols adjacent to the lever and also by an indicator on the main instrument panel.
Starting and driving Lock-up function The automatic transmission has a lock-up function, which renders the torque converter inoperative in 2nd, 3rd and 4th gears. The result is reduction in the engine speed and, hence, fuel consumption. When the lock-up function comes into operation, it may give the impression of an overdrive being engaged. Shift Lock override NOTE Due to electrical problems it may not be possible to move the selector out of the park position, even if the ignition is ON.
Starting and driving Automatic transmission fault indicator If the symbol appears on the main instrument panel, the system has detected a fault in the automatic transmission or its control module (see page 58). This also means that the Limp-home mode has been selected, to guard against further damage being done to the transmission. In this mode, the automatic transmission starts in 4th gear, and gear changes (if necessary) will have to be made manually.
Starting and driving Selector positions P To shift out of the P position you must depress the brake pedal and the ignition must be ON. The parking position (P) must only be selected when the car is at a complete standstill. The selector lever is locked and the transmission is mechanically immobilized. Always apply the parking brake after parking the car. The engine can be started. R The reverse (R) position must only be selected when the car is at a complete standstill.
Starting and driving 1 Position 1 should be used when maximum engine-braking is required on steep downhill slopes and to avoid frequent gear-changing on steep climbs. Do not move the selector to position 1 at speeds in excess of 30 mph (50 km/h). If the gear selector lever is moved from position D to 1, a change-down to 3rd gear will occur at about 110 mph (180 km/h). A change-down to 2nd gear will occur at about 75 mph (120 km/h) and to 1st gear at about 40 mph (65 km/h).
Starting and driving The SPORT and WINTER modes To select Sport mode, press the ”S” button on the selector lever when the selector lever is in position N, D, 3, 2 or 1. In this mode, gear changes will take place at higher engine speeds than in Normal mode, in other words, the transmission will shift up later and shift down earlier for the same throttle (accelerator) position. The Sport mode will be deselected if: • • • • The S button is pressed. The selector lever is moved to position P or R.
Starting and driving Cruise Control Temporary increase in speed Press the accelerator to override the preset speed, e.g. for overtaking. When you release the accelerator, the system will revert to the preset speed.
Starting and driving Disengaging the system The system will be disengaged: • When the brake or clutch pedal is depressed. • When the switch is moved to CANCEL. • When the switch is moved to OFF. • When the engine is switched off. • When the selector lever is moved to position N (cars with automatic transmission). Braking To avoid overheating the brakes, (e.g. when negotiating long descents with a drop of several hundred feet), select a low gear to use the braking effect of the engine.
Starting and driving ABS brakes ABS (Antilock Braking System) modulates the brake pressure to the respective wheels. Wheel sensors detect if a wheel is about to lock, and the control module reduces the pressure to that wheel and then increases it once more until the tendency is detected again.
Starting and driving Parking The parking brake lever is located between the front seats. The brake acts on the rear wheels. When the parking brake is on, the indicator lamp on the main instrument panel will be lit. To release the brake, lift the lever slightly, press the pawl button, and let the lever down. Always apply the parking brake when you park. WARNING • Park where the vehicle will not create an obstruction or a hazard to other road users. • Do not park on dry grass or other combustible material.
Starting and driving IB879 152 1 Pointing downhill and against the curb – Turn the wheels into the curb and edge the car forward until the wheels touch the curb. 2 Pointing uphill and against the curb – Turn the wheels away from the curb and edge the car back until the wheels touch the curb. 3 Pointing uphill or downhill – no curb – Turn the wheels towards the edge of the road. If the car should start rolling, it will not run into the road.
Starting and driving Economical motoring the engine has started from cold. Thus, if the car is mainly used for short journeys of 3–5 miles (5–8 km), the fuel consumption will be 60–80 % higher than normal. Factors affecting fuel consumption Fuel consumption is greatly affected by the general driving conditions, the way in which the car is driven and at what speeds, the weather, the state of the road, the condition of the car, etc.
Starting and driving • Driving in a low gear results in higher fuel consumption than in a high gear because of the lower engine speed for a given road speed. Always change up to a higher gear as soon as traffic conditions allow and use the highest gear as much as possible. • Check the air pressure in the tires once a month. Incorrect pressures increase tire wear. It is better to have slightly higher pressure than lower. • Check fuel consumption regularly.
Starting and driving • Check the anti-freeze in the engine coolant, see page 174. The car´s trip computer will warn you when there is a risk of slippery conditions. For further information on this function, see page 62. The car is equipped with tires designed to provide optimum grip on both wet and dry roads, although this has been achieved at the expense of somewhat reduced grip on snow and ice. For regular driving on snow and ice, we therefore recommend that winter (snow) tires be fitted.
Starting and driving Driving in hot weather • Always check the coolant level before starting a journey. When the engine is cold, the coolant must not be above the KALT/COLD mark on the expansion tank. • At the end of a journey, if the engine has worked hard, allow it to idle for two or three minutes before switching it off. If the needle on the temperature gauge enters the red zone: 1 Bring the car to a standstill but leave the engine running.
Starting and driving IB1270 Trailer weight NOTE Saab 9-3 Viggen cannot be equipped with a trailer hitch because of the design of the body and chassis. Maximum recommended trailer weights for different gradients, for best comfort and driveability for manual and automatic cars, are shown in the drawing. Make sure you are familiar with the law regarding speed limits for towing, maximum trailer weights, trailer-braking requirements, and also any special driving-license provisions (see also page 222).
Starting and driving Driving with a roof rack load Trailer hitch load Driving considerations Always take extra care when towing a trailer, as the car’s handling will be different and its braking effect reduced. The trailer’s braking system and suspension also have a considerable effect on these characteristics, see also "Driving with a load" page 160. If the car is equipped with automatic transmission, select position 1 when ascending or descending steep hills.
Starting and driving 159 Installing the roof carriers (accessory) IB882 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 attachment must be removed. 3 Position the carrier gently across the roof, with the rigid foot towards you.
Starting and driving Driving with a load The driving characteristics of the car are affected by the way it is loaded. • Place heavy loads as far forward and as low as possible in the trunk. • Secure the load to the tie downs, see page 129. • The load should be such that the car´s total weight or axle weight are not exceeded, see page 221. • Heavy loads mean that the car’s center of gravity is further back. As a result, the car will sway more during evasive steering.
Starting and driving 161 Towing a car with manual gearbox IB885 IB1331 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 violently. 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.
Starting and driving 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 violently. NOTE The car must be towed front first.
Starting and driving 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 pulling 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.
Starting and driving 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.
Starting and driving 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.
Starting and driving 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.
Car care 167 IB944 Car care Hood release handle ....... Engine .............................. Engine bay ....................... Engine oil ......................... Transmission fluid .......... Coolant ............................. Brake- clutch fluid and brake pads ..................... Power steering ................ Battery .............................. Drive belt.......................... Wipers and washers ....... Wiper blades .................... Changing bulbs ............... Fuses ............
Car care Engine The handle of the hood lock is located on the left under the instrument panel. Open the hood in the following way: 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 minmimum. The balance shafts are chain-driven and rotate at twice the speed of the crankshaft.
Car care Engine bay IB1160 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Engine-oil dipstick Brake-fluid reservoir Power-steering fluid reservoir Fuse box Coolant reservoir MAXI fuses Washer-fluid reservoir Battery Ignition discharge module Drive belt Air filter 169
Car care 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 identified on a label affixed to the left front inner fender. These engine families meet applicable EPA Federal Standards, California State Standards and Canadian Federal Standards and are equipped with the following systems: • • • • Sequential multiport fuel injection system. Three way catalytic converter.
Car care NOTE The Trionic engine management system continuously monitors the operation of these systems and has on-board diagnostic capabilities (OBD II). If the CHECK ENGINE light in the main instrument illuminates, 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.
Car care Engine oil Oil changing The engine oil must be changed in accordance with the service program, see page 215. Oil volume and grade, see page 223. Oil changing should be carried out on a warm engine. Oil filler cap and dipstick 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.
Car care Change of engine oil and oil filter may be required more frequently (5000-mile intervals (8,000 km)) if any one of the following conditions apply to the car: • Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing. • Most trips include extensive idling (such as frequent stop-and-go driving). WARNING MAX +80° • Prolonged and repeated exposure of the skin to engine oil can cause serious skin disorders.
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.
Car care IB893 WARNING Radiator drain cock 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. • 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.
Car care Brake- clutch fluid and brake pads brake pads are worn and need replacing. It is therefore essential that brake pads be checked regularly, as specified in the service program, see page 215. WARNING NOTE IB894 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.
Car care Power steering Battery WARNING IB896 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).
Car care NOTE • Don’t connect the battery terminals + and – the wrong way around. Correct fluid level in the battery 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 indicates a 50% charge. NOTE A discharged battery can freeze and fracture. Batteries should therefore always be stored away from frost.
Car care 179 Drive belt WARNING • Keep hands and clothing clear of drive belts when engine is running. • Always stop the engine before inspecting drive belts. 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.
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. IB899 IB900 Car care IB902 180 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 quarter (1.4 litres) left.
Car care 181 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. IB903 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. Headlight 1 2 3 4 5 Unscrew the cover from the back of the light units. Unplug the connector. Unhook the spring clip by pushing it forward and then to the side.
IB906 Car care IB904 182 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 counterclockwise. 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.
Car care 183 1 Front fog lights and cornering lights Rear light clusters 1 Front fog light 2 Cornering light 1 2 3 4 5 Front fog light / cornering lights 1 Slightly turn the bulb holder counterclockwise. 2 Unplug the connector. 3 Remove the bulb. 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 197.
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.
Glove-compartment lighting (detach the whole lamp unit with a short screwdriver applied at the lower edge) 185 License plate lighting (the glass is held in place by two screws) IB914 IB913 IB910 Car care 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.
Car care Bulb table No. Wattage Cap 1 60/55 P 43t-38 Headlight 2 55 P 14.5s Front fog light 3 1,2 W 2 x 4.6d Ashtray; cigarette lighter; warning light for safety belts 4 21 BA 15s Rear fog light; reversing light 5 21/5 BAY 15d Stop/taillight 6 PY 21 yel BAU 15s Direction indicator, front/rear 7 5 BA9 Reading lamps, rear (Coupé and 5-door) 8 10 SV 8.5 Dome light; trunk; glove compartment 9 5 W 2.1 x 9.
Car care Fuses 15 10 15 15 20 20 20 15 15 30 10 20 15 15 15 10 10 10 10 10 30 30 15 IB916 30 IB917 15 20 20 20 10 Sound fuse/Blown fuse 15 • When a fuse is to be replaced, it is essential that the new one should have the same rating as the one being replaced (see the Table on page 189). The color of the fuse indicates its amperage. 15 • If a MAXI fuse blows, it means that there is a major fault in the electrical system.
Car care DICE / TWICE IB920 DICE = Dashboard Integrated Central Electronics TWICE = Theft-Warning Central Electronics DICE and TWICE are electronic control modules. DICE controls, among other things: 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 damaged.
Car care 15 15 10 15 15 30 A B C 1 2 3 4 5 6 15 15 20 20 20 20 20 10 10 10 6A 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 15 15 15 20 10 30 30 10 16B 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 10 10 10 10 10 15 15 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 15 30 30 20 10 32 33 34 35 36 IB918 30 37 38 39 Fuse holder on the end of the instrument panel Fuses No.
Car care Relay holder No. Amp 21 10 22 15 23 20 24 7.
Car care 191 Fuses and relays No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 MAXI 1 MAXI 2 Item A B C1 C2 Amp 10 15 40 10 15 10 10 10 10 7.5 – – 7.5 10 15 30 50 Function Horn Front fog lights Radiator fan, low speed Vacuum pump A/C-compressor Left low beam Right low beam Left high beam Right high beam Headlight wipers – Extra lights APC Extra heater; water pump (Europe) Extra heater (Europe) Radiator fan, high speed ABS Amp Function Low beam High beam Extra heater (Europe) Vacuum pump (Turbo aut.
Car care Wheels Alternative wheels and tires If you wish to fit other tires or wheels than those supplied with the car, consult your Saab dealer first as to the possibilities available. Wheels/tires combinations that are not approved by Saab can negatively affect the car´s directional stability, steering and braking in both wet and dry conditions. Do not assume that a wheel/tire combination will function properly just because it will bolt on.
Car care Changing the wheels round WARNING When fitting just one new pair of tires, these should be fitted to the rear wheels, as these are more critical to the directional stability of the car (e.g. on braking or in a skid). The existing rear tires should therefore be moved to the front. Always move left rear to left front and right rear to right front, so that the direction of rotation remains the same. Because of front wheel drive, the front tires tend to wear faster than the rear ones.
Car care Uniform Tire Quality Grading (US) Traction Temperature Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B and C. These grades represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete.
Date code 195 Wear indicators Date code Wear indicators Tires should be regarded as perishable goods. As the tires age, the rubber becomes progressively harder, and the roadholding ability of the tires diminishes. This is particularly true on winter tires. Tires now have a date-code marking for the year of manufacture. The first two digits denote the week number and the last digit the year. The ”<” symbol points to the year.
Car care Changing a wheel WARNING IB1262 IB1261 • The car jack is designed solely for use in changing a wheel or fitting snow chains. It must not be used to support the car during repair work or servicing. Spare wheel (under the carpet in the trunk), Saab 9-3 Viggen When changing a wheel, take the tool kit out first, then the spare wheel. 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 workshop.
IB924 Position for jack When it is time to raise the car, apply the jack to one of the four jacking points (front or rear) located beneath the sills. If a floor jack is used it can be applied to the standard jacking points used by the dealer or centrally under the front of the engine subframe. If the car is equipped with a trailer hitch, the jack can also be placed under the hitch. NOTE Do not position the jack under the rear axle or under the rear floor.
Car care NOTE IB1174 Saab 9-3 Viggen: The minimum permissible wheel diameter is 16”, due to the size of the brake discs. Position for jack, Saab 9-3 Viggen 8 Lower the car and tighten the wheel bolts to the correct torque in the sequence shown (opposite pairs). Tightening torque: Light-alloy wheels: 80 ft.lbs (110 Nm). Steel wheels: 80 ft.lbs (110 Nm).
Car care IB923 Flat spotting Removing the wheel cover All tires get hot, especially on long journeys or when the car is driven hard. After the car has been parked with hot tires and the tires have cooled down, a flat spot can form in the tire, where it is in contact with the ground. The same can occur if the car has not been moved for a long time. Flat spots can cause vibration that can be felt through the steering wheel, similar to that experienced when the wheels need balancing.
Car care Upholstery and trim To remove fluff or hairs from the seat upholstery or headlining, use a moist, lint-free cloth or a special lint remover (brush or roller). Remove any dirty marks using a cloth moistened with lukewarm soapy water. When using a stain remover, always work from the outside towards the center to avoid leaving a ring. If a soiled ring or spot should remain, it can usually be removed using lukewarm soapy water or water alone.
Car care Engine bay Washing Clean the engine compartment using an engine detergent and rinse with hot water. Cover the headlights and do not aim the spray nozzle on the: Wash the car frequently. When the car is new, wash the bodywork by hand, using just cold water – a brush attachment on the end of a hose is ideal. Do not use automatic car washes for the first five or six months, before the paintwork has hardened properly. Thereafter, use a high quality car wash soap added to lukewarm water.
Car care Touching up the paint NOTE • Try your brakes on leaving a car wash. Wet brake discs reduce the braking effect. • Clean the rod of the electrically powered antenna about once a month with a clean, dry rag. IMPORTANT! Use no oil, nor any silicone-based cleaning product. • Fixed antennas must be removed when going through an automatic car wash.
Car care Anti-corrosion treatment IB1334 Two-coat enamel As the name implies, two-coat enamel is applied in two operations. The first coat, the base color, contains the pigment, metal flakes and binder. The second coat consists of a clear enamel, which provides the final gloss for the paintwork and protects the base from moisture and environmental contaminants. Touch-up stone-chip damage as follows: 1 Thoroughly clean the damaged area. 2 Then apply the primer, base color, and finally, the enamel.
Car care IB926 Preventive maintenance Drainage holes in doors What causes rust? Steel body panels of automobiles are subject to rusting whenever air and moisture manage to penetrate the protective finish. Body panels may rust through if the process is unchecked. Rusting can occur wherever water is trapped or where the car’s panels are continuously damp. Damage to paint and undercoating by stones, gravel and minor accidents immediately exposes metal to air and moisture.
Car care Inspect the undercoating and touch up if necessary. Pay particular attention to the fenders and wheel housings, which are exposed to abrasion by flying gravel, etc. If the composition has worn or flaked off, the steel must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before a fresh coat is applied. The cleaning is best done with a scraper and a steel wire brush, followed by washing with solvent. Apply the new coating thinly, otherwise it may run off or fall off when dry.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Car care A-pillar trim: PP, PP/EPDM. Windshield trim: PP, PP/EPD. Seals: EPDM. Rear-window casing PUR. Trim panel ABS. C/D-pillar trim PP. Rear light cluster: PMMA. Corner filler panel PPO/PA. Rear bumper Expanded PP core PP/EPDM sheathing. Fuel tank PE. Side-window casing: PP/EPDM. Side trim PVC. A-pillar upholstery trim: PC/ABS, textile. Rearview mirror: ABS. Sill scuff plate: PP/EPDM. Wheel-arch liner: PP. Wheel cover: PA.
Car care Air conditioning (A/C system) NOTE • The A/C system is designed for use with R134a refrigerant. • Refrigerant handling requires special equipment and special procedures for charging and draining the system. • All repairs and adjustments on the A/C system must be carried out by a Saab dealer authorized for this kind of work. • Never mix R134a and R12 refrigerants. WARNING • The A/C system is pressurized. Do not break any connections or undo A/C system components.
Car care Maintenance • The drive belt for the compressor should be inspected under the regular service program. • Clean dirt and insects away from the condenser and radiator to prevent clogging. When washing the car, use the hose to spray the radiator and condenser (located forward of the radiator) from both sides (both from the front of the car and from inside the engine bay). Do not use a pressure washer. Caution: Do not use the hose when the engine is hot.
Car care NOTE To make sure that your headlights are aimed properly read all instructions before beginning. Failure to follow these instructions could cause damage to headlight parts or a not correctly aimed headlight. A B 2 Vertical adjustment A Vertical aiming device B Vertical aim level IB1170 1 IB1169 Open the hood and locate the vertical aim level (B) that you can see through the top of the headlight lens.
Car care
Maintenance and owner assistance 211 Maintenance and owner assistance IB1367 Maintenance schedule..... Owner assistance ............ Reporting Safety Defects (U.S.A.) ............................ Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian government ................................ Saab Original Service Program M2000 USA, Canada, (9-3 Models) .....
Maintenance and owner assistance Maintenance schedule The Maintenance Schedule prescribes a service program to the purchaser/operator of a Saab that is reasonable and necessary to ensure the proper emission control systems function, safety and reliability of the Saab automobile in normal use. Additional maintenance is recommended for specific components when the car is operated under certain severe conditions.
Maintenance and owner assistance Service record retention Service costs Service instruction coupons and record stubs are provided in the Saab Warranties and Service Record Booklet which accompanies this Owner’s Manual. The coupons are arranged in the order that normal service should be performed. The edge of each coupon is shaded to correspond to the type of service point: Dealer pricing practices and labor for service work vary.
Maintenance and owner assistance Change of Address Notification (U.S.) Two change of address cards are provided at the end of the Warranties and Service Record Booklet. Knowing your current address allows Saab to contact you in the event of a recall or service campaign. Please help us keep our records up to date for your own peace of mind. Service information Factory Service Manuals for the Saab 9-3 and 9-5 car lines can be ordered through the dealer.
Maintenance and owner assistance 215 20,000 (32,000 km) 30,000 (48,000 km) 40,000 (64,000 km) 50,000 (80,000 km) 60,000 (96,000 km) 70,000 (112,000 km) 80,000 (128,000 km) 90,000 (144,000 km) 100,000 (160,000 km) Service # 1 Engine and engine compartment E Engine oil and filter (a.) ! R Engine coolant freezing point and level " R Engine coolant flush and replace (max.
30,000 (48,000 km) 40,000 (64,000 km) 50,000 (80,000 km) 60,000 (96,000 km) 70,000 (112,000 km) 80,000 (128,000 km) 90,000 (144,000 km) 100,000 (160,000 km) Service # Engine and engine compartment (cont.
20,000 (32,000 km) 30,000 (48,000 km) 40,000 (64,000 km) 50,000 (80,000 km) 60,000 (96,000 km) 70,000 (112,000 km) 80,000 (128,000 km) 90,000 (144,000 km) 100,000 (160,000 km) Service # Chassis R Ball joint clearance, outer and inner steering joints and rubber boots R Front suspension, rear axle mountings; retighten R Shock absorbers and bushes; tightness and condition R Tire pressure, tread depth and wear (c.) R Rotate tires, front to rear R Brake pads and discs; wear and condition (d.
70,000 (112,000 km) 80,000 (128,000 km) 90,000 (144,000 km) 100,000 (160,000 km) 10 11 # # " " ! # # " # # " ! # # " # # " ! # # " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " " 50,000 (80,000 km) 9 40,000 (64,000 km) 8 30,000 (48,000 km) Chassis (cont.
Technical data 219 IB993 Technical data General particulars .......... Engine ............................... Engine oil.......................... Engine variants ................ Electrical system.............. Drive belts......................... Manual transmission ....... Automatic transmission .. Suspension....................... Steering............................. Brake system.................... Rims and tires .................. Plates and labels..............
Technical data General particulars Overall length, with bumper(s): Coupé/5-door/Convertible____________ Viggen __________________________ Overall width, including door mirrors _____ Maximum height ____________________ Maximum height when the soft top is being operated (Convertible) ______________ Wheelbase ________________________ Track: front, Coupé/5-door/Convertible _______ front, Viggen ______________________ rear, Coupé/5-door/Convertible _______ rear, Viggen ______________________ Ground clearance at
Technical data Weight ready for driving (i.e. with full fuel tank, washer- fluid reservoir, standard tools and spare wheel) Coupé ___________________________ 2990-3170 lbs. (1355-1440 kg) Viggen, Coupé ____________________ 3090-3160 lbs. (1405-1435 kg) 5-door ___________________________ 3030-3220 lbs. (1375-1460 kg) Viggen, 5-door ____________________ 3140-3210 lbs. (1425-1455 kg) Convertible _______________________ 3130-3260 lbs. (1420-1480 kg) Viggen, Convertible ________________ 3220-3230 lbs.
Technical data Maximum permitted load in trunk Coupé and 5-door at curb weight plus 4 passengers à 155 lbs. (70 kg) _______ 130 lbs.(60 kg) For each passenger less in the rear seat the load may be increased by 100 lbs. (45 kg) Convertible at curb weight and 3 passengers à 155 lbs. (70 kg) _______ 120 lbs. (55 kg) Coupé and 5-door at curb weight and rear seat right down ________________ 475 lbs. (215 kg) WARNING • The GVW and maximum axle loads must not be exceeded. Note that if some accessories (e.g.
Technical data Engine Type _____________________________ 4 cyl, 2 overhead camshafts, 16 valves and 2 balancer shafts Cylinder bores ______________________ 3.54" (90 mm) Stroke: 2.0 Turbo_________________________ 3.071" (78 mm) Viggen __________________________ 3.543” (90 mm) Swept volume: 2.0 Turbo_________________________ 121 cu.in. (1,985 dm3) Viggen __________________________ 140 cu.in. (2.
Technical data Viscosity: The viscosity of oil is classified according to the SAE standard. Nowadays, multigrade oils are always used in cars. The properties of these oils facilitate starting the car in cold weather but mean that the oil is also viscous enough to coat all moving parts under high pressures and with high outside air temperatures. Multigrade oils are graded with two viscosities, e.g.
Technical data Electrical system 2.0 Turbo 185 hp, manual transmission Rating, EEC at 5500 rpm ____________ Max. torque (man.), EEC at 2100 rpm __ Compression ratio _________________ 185 hp (136 kW) 194.0 ft.lb (263 Nm) 9.2:1 2.0 Turbo 185 hp, automatic transmission Rating, EEC at 5750 rpm ____________ Max. torque EEC at 1900 rpm ________ Compression ratio _________________ 185 hp (136 kW) 184.4 ft.lb. (250 Nm) 9.2:1 2.0 Turbo 205 hp, manual transmission Rating, EEC, at 5500 rpm____________ Max.
Technical data Manual transmission Suspension Type _____________________________ 5-speed, fully synchronized with final-drive gear and differential Oil type (for topping-up) ______________ Saab synthetic manual gearbox oil Oil capacity ________________________ 1.8 qts. (1.
Technical data Brake system Footbrake (ABS) ___________________ Hydraulic disc brakes with vacuum servo, diagonally split circuits Parking brake ______________________ Acts on rear wheels Brake fluid ________________________ DOT 4 Do not use DOT 5 Disc diameter: front, Coupé/5-door/Convertible _______ 11.4" (288 mm) front, Viggen ______________________ 12.0” (306 mm) rear ____________________________ 11.3" (286 mm) Total friction area of brake pads: front, Coupé/5-door/Convertible _______ 34.
Technical data NOTE Snow chains Snow chains must not be fitted to the rear wheels and must be used on the following tire/wheel combinations. Wheel Tire 6 x 15 _________185/65 R15 M+S (not Viggen), 195/60 R15 (not Viggen) or 195/60 R15 M+S (not Viggen) 6.5 x 15________195/60 R15 (not Viggen) 6.5 x 16________205/50 R16 or 205/50 R16 M+S Max. speed is 30 mph (50 km/h). Consult your authorized Saab dealer of approved snow chains. NOTE Coupé/5-door/Convertible: Bigger rims than 16” must not be used.
Technical data 229 Plates and labels In contacts with your Saab dealer it may sometimes be necessary to quote the car’s chassis, engine and gearbox numbers. 1 Modification identity plate (in the spare wheel compartment). On certain model variants, the plate is located on the right-hand door pillar. 2 V.I.N. number inside windshield. 3 Certification label. 4 Gearbox number. 5 Engine number. 6 Label for tire pressures and color codes (trim and body). 7 Chassis number. 8 Chassis number (stamped on body).
Technical data position: IB541 VIN: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 | | | | | | | | | | | | Y S 3 D F 5 8 K 7 Y 2 005543 | | | | | | 1 2 3 4 5 6 = identification codes for certain chassis details 1 - Region ____________ Y = Northern Europe 2 - Country _______ S = Sweden 3 - Manufacturer ___ 3 = Saab Automobile AB 4 - Product line ____ D = 9-3 5 - Model series ___ D = 9-3 S with driver’s and passenger’s airbag F = 9-3 SE with driver’s and passenger’s airbag P = 9-3 Viggen with driver’s and pas
Technical data Several of the systems in your Saab car may be adjusted to better fit your individual needs Some functions are governed by legal requirements and cannot therefore be reprogrammed. Consult an authorized Saab dealer for further information. Car alarm/central locking system: • The level of the siren when locking/ unlocking, HIGH or LOW. • The number of blinks when locking/ unlocking, 1 to 7. • Automatic locking of the trunk when the car is driven, 1 to 8 mph (2-14 km/h), YES or NO.
Technical data Following adjustments can be done by the driver: Automatic Climate Control (ACC): To alter the preprogrammed “AUTO“ start up mode with your own preferences you can manually select the desired settings for: • Temperature. • Fan speed. • Air distribution. See “Programming I” on page 86 and “Programming II” on page 87. Saab 9-3 Audio System: The following functions can be adjusted by the driver (see page 104): • Maximum starting volume (when the radio is switched on).
Index Index Braking _______________________ 149 Bulb table _____________________ 186 A A/C system, fault diagnosis _______ 207 A/C system, maintenance _________ 207 ACC __________________________ 80 ACC, useful tips _________________ 88 Adjustment, steering wheel ________ 118 Air conditioning (A/C), fault diagnosis and maintenance __ 207 Airbag _________________________ 22 Alarm _________________________ 35 Alarm functions __________________ 38 Alarm signals ___________________ 38 Anticorrosion treatment
Index Fueling _______________________ 138 Fuse table _____________________ 189 Fuses ________________________ 187 Electrical window _______________ 119 Electrically adjustable seats _______ 116 Electrically heated front seats ______ 118 Electrically heated rear seat _______ 118 Electrically heated rear window _____ 79 Electronic starting interlock _________ 31 Emergency opening, fuel filler door _ 131 Emergency operation of the soft top, Convertible ____________________ 46 Emergency operation of the s
Index Manual climate-control system ______ 76 Manual raising of the soft top, Convertible ____________________ 46 Manually opening the fuel filler door, Convertible ____________________ 52 Manually opening the fuel filler door, Coupé and 5-door ______________ 131 Maxi fuses _____________________ 188 Memory, driver’s seat ____________ 117 Motoring abroad ________________ 165 N Night Panel _____________________ 69 O Odometer ______________________ 59 Oil specification _________________ 223 OnStar __________
Index Temperature gauge ______________ 60 Textile carpeting, cleaning ________ 200 Through-load hatch ______________ 128 Tie-down eyes _________________ 129 Tipping the rear seat _____________ 125 Tire pressures __________________ 192 Tires and wheels, sizes __________ 227 Tools _________________________ 130 Touching up paintwork ___________ 202 Towing a caravan or trailer ________ 156 Towing the car _________________ 160 Trailer hitch load ________________ 158 Transmission, automatic __________ 141 T
