Saab 900

Owner's Manual M 1992

Main Instrument display pan&/

Switch lor adJUStment of 000.

mirrors (oortam variants)

Switch kx parf<Jng lights and headlights

Fan swrtch

temperahnB conlroi

Driver's

seat heetsr "*>Stat (some

modtJis)IHetJdllght bflamlength

distribubon contrOl

adjustment
Switch for adjustment of door
mirrors (c9r1ain variants)

."'a;,ard wammg lights

Rear tog lights (certain ma11<ets)

Dlr6C110n Indicators, main/dipped

bewn, I1IIJJil beam flasher

Hom buttons

tnter/or fighting switch

Gear lever

Switches kx eJectrtc
wrndows (cettain varlanrs)

Owner's Manual
Saab 900 M 1992

Instruments and controls

Interior equipment
Doors, locks and luggage compartment
Starting and driving
Car care and maintenance
Technical data
Index

-Saab Automobile AS 1991

Tcchni<:al Publkat.oos. Sub Automobile AD T rollhattan, Sweden
Printed by: Vistergbtlands Try<ke1'i AS. Skara

3
13

29
35
47
69

80

Thos manual for the Saab 900 provodes

some practical advice on driving and caring
for your car. The manual also describes the
most important differences between model
versions. When mentioned in the manual ,
9001 16 = 16-valve eng one naturally aspo
rated and 900 Turbo 16 ._ 16-valve engone
wtth turbo charger.
Read through the manual before taking the

car out for the first tome and then keep it in

the car for future reference.
The manual is dovided into a number of
sectoons and there is also a comprehensove
ondex at the back
Supplied with the car are a Service Boo!<
and important informatoon about warranty
condotoons.
Sonce the policy at Saab Automobile Is one

of continual omprovement. we retaon the

right to incorporate modification s and alter
specifications during production without
prior notoce.
Best wtshes
Saab Automobile AB

The radio shown In some ot the photograps 1n this bo~t

s no1 induded as standafd equipment for the car

Instruments and controls

Instruments
and controls
Instrument panel . .. . .. .. . . 4
Indicator and warning lights . .. 4
Instrument s . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Switches .. . .. . . . . . . . . . . 6
Heating and ventilation system . 10

Instruments and controls

~~~------------------------------------------

Indicator and warning

lights

Instrument panel
Cars With anttlock brakmg systera

Australia only
5

r:-:-J
)

'

<

'

./

120 140
100 \ 1 I I ' 160
/
80 ' '
' -: nc: u::/ '/180
'
.-/:::
60 :200

40 -... .

, .,-.'-:

<

./

20

'

~ "'""

-: [i

'220
,'240

Indicator light for rearwindow heating

'

~.

i' J "

'...,.,

Fuel Injection system

warning light
This light Indicates a malfunction in the fuel
injection system. Although an emergency
system in the electronic control unit will take
over, enabling you to continue your journey
with somewhat diminished engine perfor
mance. the car should be taken to your
Saab dealer as soon as possible.

,.....
.....
-~

Some of the waming lights come on as the

.gnitoon is swttched on. These lights should
all be extingutshed as soon as the engine
has been started_

'

Thos light will show when the rear-window

heating is switched on.

Oil pressure warning

light
Main Instrument display panel
1 Rev counter and clock
2 tndicator/Warnong lights
3 Dlrectoon lndocator repeater light

4 Speedometer mllometer and trip meter

5
6
7
8
9
t0

Pressure gauge
Temperatura gauge
Fuel gauge
Otmmer swolch. onstrumenl illumination
Tnp meter reset knob
Clock reset knob

This light will come on if the engine oil pressure should fall too low. If the light flashes
or comes on while you are driving, stop the
car immediately, switch off the engine and
check the oil level.
The car must not be driven while this light
Is on.

Instruments and controls

Charging warn ing light

Thos hght will come on the battery os not

being charged. If it comes on white you are
driving, stop the car immediately and switch
off the engine. Check the alternator drive
belt: If It is slack or broken, not only will the
battery not be charged but cooling of the
engine will also be inadequate.

I: I

Main beam i ndicator light

Thos light will show when the maon beam os

on.

Rear fog lamp Indicator

light
This light will show when the rear fog lights
are switched on.

Handbrake warni ng light

Thos tight will show when the handbrake is
applied.

_ .,

ABS warning light

L .:.:&..!1
.. (option)
This light Indicates that the ABS system is
inoperatove. Conventional braking is still
available but have the ABS system

checked by an authonzed Saab dealer

without delay.

Brake warning light

The brake warning light will come on of the
brake fluid level falls too low. If the light
comes on whole you are driving. stop the car
immediately and check the level of brake
fluid in the reservoir. On cars woth ABS
brakes. the hght will also come on in com
bonatron woth the ANTI LOCK warnong hght
if there os a drop on pressure in the brake
servo system. In such a case the servo
pressure will be used up after braking a few
times and power assistance will be lost.

WARNING
If power assostance is lost, brakong effect
is greatly reduced, together with a bog on
crease on reqUited pressure on the brake
pedal, and the car should only be dnven
if absolutely necessary.
Have the car checked and corrected im
mediately by an authorized Saab dealer.

Fuel gauge (FUEL)

Fuel warning light

This tight woll show when less than about 7
litres (1 .5 amp. gal) of fuel remaons on the

tank. 16 valve engane. If the fuel tank has

run dry at least 5 htres of fuel Oust over a
gal on) will have to be added for the engine
to be started when the car is standing on
level ground. If the car is on a slope, as
much as 13 litres (approx. 3 gallons) may
have to be added.

Instruments
Clock
In all models the clock os ancorporated in the
rev counter.

Rev counter
The rev counter shows the engine speed in
lhoJsands of revs per minute. For maxi
mun fuel economy, the needle should be
ke~t wrthin the green zone. The needle may
bnefly enter the broken red zone but must
neer be allowed to enter the solid red
zore
Saab 900 Turbo 16 only: A safety cut-out
function prevents the engine speed exceeding approximately 6,000 r/min.

Speedometer, mllometer and trip

meter
The milometer records the distance travelled on mites or kilometres and the tnp
meter '" miles/kilometres and tenths.

Instruments and controls

Temperature gauge

Pressure gauge (900 Turbo 16)

The temperature gauge indicates the temperature of the coolant. When the needle
has just entered the green zone, it indicates
a temperature of soc (122"F), which is the
beginning of the normal temperature range
for the engine. With the needle in this position, the engine may be driven at full load
(full throttle) for short periods. Saab 900
Turbo 16 models must not be driven at full
throttle before the needle is well inside the
green zone.
If the temperature indicator approaches the
red section (this may occur when the ambient temperature is extremely high or at
very high engine loads) , the highest possible gear should be selected to reduce the
engine speed as much as possible. Avoid
changing down. If the pointer should move
into the red section in spite of these measures, stop the car and let the engine idle.
If the indicator moves into the red section
repeatedly, stop as soon as possible and
check the coolant level.

The pressure gauge indicates the pressure

in the inlet manifold. When the engine is
only lightly loaded and during engine overrun (engine braking) a depression will be
present in the inlet manifold and the needle
on the gauge will be within the white zone.
At higher engine speeds and when the engine is under a greater load, the turbocharger will boost the pressure in the inlet
manifold and the needle will enter the yellow zone.
Under normal conditions. the needle should
not enter the red zone as a safety cut-out
system will limit the charging pressure to
protect the engine. However, under certain
atmospheric conditions, the needle may
just enter the red zone. which does not
mean that the system is malfunctioning m
any way. But if the needle repeatedly enters the red zone and a loss in engine
power is also experienced (because the
safety cut-out system is limiting the charging pressure), the car should be taken to an
authorized Saab dealer without delay.

Switches
Headlights and parking lights
The lighting is off.
Note!
Please note instrument illumination is lit at
all times when the ignition is on.

Parking lights
The parking lights can be switched on irrespective of the position of the ignition key.
Parking lights should only be used when
the car is stationary.

Headlights
The headlights can be switched on when
the ignition switch is in the drive or parking
position .
N.B. The headlights will be extinguished
automatically when the ignition switch is
turned to the locking position (l ). This does
not apply to the parking lights, which can
still be used with the ignition switch in this
position.

Main/dipped beam
To change from main beam to dipped beam
or vice versa. lift the stalk towards the steer
ing wheel. This will also flash the headlights
on main beam if the headlights are not
switched on.

Instruments and controls

Headlight beam-length adjustment

1 Main/dipped beam or headlight !lasher

Some variants are equipped with a system

for adjustong the length of the beam from
the headlights when this is affected by the
way in which the car is loaded. The system
comprises an actuator motor at either headlight and a switch on the fascia. The switch,
which must not be operated unless the Ignition is on, has the following four pos1toons:
0 Frontseat passenger and/or driver only
(no luggage)
1- Driver plus 4 passengers onty (no tuggage)
2 Fully laden (Driver plus 4 passenge~
and max. load in boot or driver only plus
max. load in boot)
3 1..1aximum trailer load (Driver only plus
maximum trailer road)

3 Indicators lor right tum

Note

Stalk swttch tor main/dipped beam and direction mdlcators

2 Indicators lor left turn

The above IS intended as a gu1de to suit

able sw1tch positions. This facility is provided to enable the dnver to use his own
discretoon to choose the setting that Wlll
give optimum lighting on dipped beam w1th
out dazzling other road users.

Direction Indicators
To switch on the direction indicators, move
the stalk up or down. The stalk has a springloaded poSition lor use of the indK:ators for
changing lanes or overtakmg. In the f1xed
posllon, the 1nd1cators will remain on unlll

cancelled automatically by the steering

wheel.
The respective repeater light on the instrument panel will flash at the same rate as the
dtrectoon indtcatcrs.

Reversi ng lights
The reversing lig1ts come on automatically
when reverse gear is selected.

Instrument illumination
The bnghtness of the instrument illumination can be varied by means of the dimmer
switch. (Rheostat)

Instruments and controls

Interior lighting
There are three interior lights: a dome light
on the ceiling, a light on the rear-view mirror and a light by the ignition switch (Combi
Coupe and Sedan) . Saab 900 Convertible
have four interior lights: one on the rearview mirror, one by the ignition switch and
two courtesy lights for rear-seat passengers. The lights are operated by a threeposition switch on the console between the
front seats.
Switch position 2: Lighting on continuously
Switch position 0: Lighting off
Switch position 1: Lighting comes on when
a door is opened
In some models, the lights will switch off
automatically either after a delay of about

Switch for interior lights

means of a switch on the instrument panel.

The rear fog light operates only when the
headlights are on. A light on the instrument
display panel will show when the rear fog
light is switched on. Make sure that you
are familiar with the law regarding the
use of rear fog lights.

Hazard warning lights

fifteen seconds after the last door has been

closed or when the ignition switch is moved
to the drive position.

When this switch is depressed, all four direction indicator lights will flash simultaneously. An indicator light in the switch and
both direction indicator repeater lights on
the instrument panel will also flash. The
hazard warning lights should only be used
if, because of a col ision or breakdown, the
car constitutes a danger or obstruction to
other road users.

Luggage compartment light

Hazard warning lig ht switch

The luggage compartment light is switched

on/extinguished automatically when the
luggage compartment door is opened/closed. The light can also be switched off
by moving the switch to the middle position.

Rear fog light (certain

markets)

-----....,s~
G-:8:'!':
79

The rear fog light is incorporated in the rear

left or right light cluster (depending on leftor rigtt-hand traffic) and is switched on by

Instruments and controls

Stalk switch for wipers and

washers
The stalk switch for the wipers and washers has the following positions:
1 Windscreen wipers. intermittent operation. The wipers will make a double
sweep every few seconds. This function
is particularly useful in light rain or drizzle.
2 Windscreen wipers, low speed.
3 Windscreen wipers, high speed.
4 Lifting the stalk switch towards the
steering wheel will operate the washers
and wipers tor the headlights and windscreen.

Stalk switch for wipers and washars

the electrically heated

drtvsr's seat

Heated rear window

The switch for heating of the rear window is
located on the dashboard. A warning light
on the instrument display panel will show
when the heating is switched on.
Switch the heating ott as soon as the rear
window is free from ice or mist. Retrain from
placing sharp or hard objects on the rear
parcel shelf, to avoid damaging the heater
elements.
Do not switch on the rear window heating before the engine Is running.
Cars for some markets are equipped with a
time-delay relay which limits to a few min
utes the time during which the rear window
is electrically heated.

Heated driving seat

On some variants the driving seat is

equipped with adjustable heating of the
seal cushion and backrest. The control on
the dashboard has three heating settings,
with position 3 providing maximum heat.
With the control in position 0, the heating is
switched off altogether.

10

Instruments and controls

Heating and ventilation

system
~resh air is drawn in through an inlet in the

bonnet. An efficient filter removes dust and

other particles from the air before it flows
through the heating and ventilation system
into the car. On the Combi Coupe air is
evacuated from the car through an outlet on
either side at the rear of the car. On Sedan
and Convertible models, the air evacuation
outlet is located underneath the rear
bumper.

.:JI

Fan

The amount or air admitted to the car is

controlled by the ran switch. The ran runs
continuously exoept when the air distribution control is set to 0.
To increase the .air flow, turn the fan control
clockwise.

Temperature control
Infinitely variable control of the temperature
of the supply air (between the limtts) ts posAir vents

Heating and ventilation controls

1 Fan switch
2 Temperature control
3 Air distribution control

1
2
3
4

Defroster vents
Side vents
Central panel vents
Floor vents

sible by means of the temperature control.

Turn the control clockwise to increase the
temperature.

Air distribution control

The air distribution control is used to direct
the supply of air to the defroster, panel and
floor vents.
Joysticks on the panel vents enable tile direction or the air flow to be selected as desired (for instance, in very cold weather it
may be advisable to direct the air flow onto
the side windows to enhance the defrosting
effect). The thumb wheels on the panel
vents enable the amount of air admitted to
be adjusted for each vent individually. Note
that the top section of the side vents is
permanently open.
Recommended control settings
Cold weather. For rapid defrosting , turn
the air distribution control to position
and select the maximum fan speed.

"4W

Thereafter, to keep the inside or the car at

JJ.
4

a comfortable temperature, turn the air distrib,~ttion control to position

{! or
~ and select a suitable fan speed and
temperature.
Hot weather. When the car is very hot and
maximum cooling is required, tum the air
distribution control to position t> and
select the maximum fan speed.

Instruments and controls

Thereafter, to maintain comfortable ventola
bo,g, turn the control to pos1hon 4t> or
V and select a suitable fan speed. For
an adequate air change rate ins1de the car.
the fan should be u~fi!Q even when the c<~r
is travelling at speed. Regulate the temper
ature o f the incoming air as required.
Note that the central panel vents admit only
unheated fresh air.
Misted windows
For rap1d demisting turn the alf d1Stnbut1on
control to position ~ and select fan
speed 2 or 3 at highspeed driving.

Switches lor the air ccnditloning system

1 On/off
2 Air recirculation

Air condition lng (when fitted)

When fitted, the air conditioning system is
incorporated in the standard heat1ng and
ventilation system and operated by the
same controls. To switch on the air condi
tioning, depress the AC switch on the in
strument panel.
N.B. Staning o f the air conditioner com
pressor is delayed by about 10 seconds
when the eng1ne IS star1ed, in order to avo1d
applying additional load onto the engine
This delay will be operative only if the AC
switch has been pressed before the ignihon
has been switched on.
For rapid cooling of the air inside the car In
hot weather or to avoid exhaust fumes be
ing drawn Into the car in traffic jams, press
the air recirculation switch, whereupon the
fresh air intake will be closed and the air in
side the car recirculated through the venli
lation system. To reduce the likelihood of
the windows m1sting up inside the car, the
air recirculahon function will only operate
when the AC system is switched on. N.B.
Do not use the alf recirculation fac1llty in
cold weather as this can result in ice and
mist forming on the windows.
When the air distribution control Is set to 0
or ::(> , the system will override the air
recirculation setting, i.e. the fresh air intake
will be closed regardless of whether the AC
and air recirculation switches are on or off.
N.B. If the engine IS running hot, there 1s no
need to switch off the AC system as a ther
mostat in the system w1ll switch off the AC

11

compressor automatJCSIIy If necessary. If

the alf conditiomng system IS not working
properly. refer to the section Air condition
mg fault diagnosis'.
Climate system tips
Defogging windows Switching on the AC
compressor in combination with turning up
the temperature control will acoelerate de
fogging. The recirculation switch should be
off.
Defrosting windshield For maximum ef
feet. tum the temperature control fully
clockw1se and the alf distribution control to
twelve oclock. Increase the fan speed as
the air begins to warm up.
Heat plus fresh air On a long winter drive,
coot air directed toward the face can help
fight drowsiness. Select the nine o'clock
poS1t1on on the air distribution control and
adJUSt the center panel vent to surt.
AC modulation For max1mum cooldown,
engage the AC sw1tch and select the seven
o'clock position on the air d1stnbubon con
tro4 (temperature contro4 fully counter dock
w1se to blue spot). As the desired comfort
level IS reached , switch the alf distribution
to e1ght o'clock and adJUSt fan speed to suit.
To maintain comfort on moderate days, add
heat to the outer vents by turning up the
temperature control part way. Direct the
fully cold air from the canter vent toward the
rear, between the front seats. or close it
With the thumb wheel sw1tch on the vent it
self.

12 Instruments and controls

Defroster vents
open.

Floor and defroster

vents open

Floor vents open.

Maximum air flow for

rapid cooling. All
panel vents fully
open. The fan runs
automatically at max
imum speed. Cars
without AC: Floor
vents partially open.
Cars with AC: Floor
vents closed.

All panel vents fully

open. Cars without
AC: Floor vents par
tially open. Cars with
AC: Normal setting.
Floor vents closed.

Floor vents and cen

tral panel vents fully
open.

Interior equipment

13

Interior
equipment
Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Child safety . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear-view mirrors . . . . . . . . .
Ashtrays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electric windows . . . . . . . . .
Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Convertible top. . . . . . . . . . .
Audio equipment . . . . . . .

14
15
17
18
19
20
20
21
27

14 Interior equipment

Seats
The backrest and cushion of the front seats
are equipped with electric heating, which is
controlled automatically by a thermostat
when the ignition is on. In some models, the
heating of the driver's seat is adjustable.
The heating will only operate when the ignition IS on and the seat is cold.
Both front seats can be adjusted for legroom and the rake angle of the backrests
has infinitely variable adjustment within the
limits. The driving seat is also adjustable for
he1ght. In Convenble and three-door models, the backrests can be folded forwards.
The seats of cars lor the FE- and ME- markets have no electric heating.

To adjust the head restra1nt - - - - Pull the head restraint up or push it

down until it is in the correct position.
For best protection. the head restraint
should be level w1th the occupant's
head.

Legroom adjustment
Lift the bar and slide the
seat to the desired POSitiOn.
Release the bar and check
that the seat is locked 1n
the new position.

Backrest rake angle

To adJust the backrest, turn
the wheel until the backrest
is in the desired position.

Head restraint
The head restraints can be raised or lowered and to give maximum protection
should be adjusted to the same height as
the occupant's head
To ra1se the head restramt. grip it on either
side and pull ~ stra1ght up.
To lower the head restraint: press the top
straight down.

fold the backrest forward, (3-door and

Convertible)
Release the backrest by
ra1sing the Lever and then
loki the backrest forward.

Height adjustment
Pull forward the telescopic lever
and rruse or lower the lever until
the desired he1ght IS Obtaned.

Controls for electncally adJUStable front seats

1 Backrest rake angle
2 Legroom and height ad;ustment

Interior equipment
Electrically adjustable seats

Always fasten your seat belt. This also applies to back-seat passengers. Research

has established that it is equally dangerous

for rear-seat passengers not to wear seat
belts. In the event of a collision, unrestrained rear-seat passengers are thrown
violently forward against the front-seat
backrests. This doubles the force put on the
front-seat occupants and seat belts, frequently resulting in injury to all the occupants. Each belt may only be worn by one
person at a time.
Apart from the belt for the middle rear-seat
passenger (nta Convertible), the seat belts
are of the inertia reel type. To fasten a seat
belt, pull the strap gently out of the reel and
insert the tongue in the buckle. Make sure
that the tongue is properly secured .
For maximum protection, the seat belt
should be worn with the hip strap low
across the hips and the diagonal strap well

Location of winder

Taking hold of the front seat belt

Some variants are equipped with electrically adjustable front seats, which are also
an option on certain other variants.
The top control is for adjustment of the
backrest In addition to legroom adjustment, the lower control provides individual
height adjustment of the front (thigh support) and back of the seat.
In the event of an electrical fault, a special
winder included in the tool kit can be useo
to adjust the seat manually for legroom.

Seat belts

SG1119

"1 5

1 Tongue
2 Buckle

in on the shoulder but not too close to the

neck. Make sure that the belt is not twisted
or rubbing against any sharp edges and
that there is no unnecessary slack in the
straps. To release the buckle, press the red
button marked PRESS.
Expectant mothers should take care to fit
the belt such that it does not apply pressure
to the abdomen. The hip strap should be as
low as possible across the hips.
Most of the time when the belt is being worn
the reel will not be locked, thus allowing
freedom of movement However, the reel
will lock if the strap is jerked or withdrawn
sharply, if the car is tilted at a steep angle,
or if the car brakes hard or is involved in a
collision. The seat belt warning light on the
instrument panel will show if either of the

16 Interior equipment
front seat occupants has neglected to fasten his belt.
The belt for the middle rear-seat passenger
is of the lap-belt type and can be adjusted
manually. If required, lengthen the belt before fastening it by holding the adjuster at
right angles to the strap and pulling the
strap out. Tighten the belt by pulling the free
end until the belt fits snugly against the
body. To release the beH, press the red
button on the buckle.

CAUTION
Make sure that the belts do not become
trapped when the rear seat is tipped forward or folded back.

Adjusting the length of the lap belt

WARNING:
Seat 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.
Seat belts should be adjusted as firmly
as possible, consistent with comfort, to
provide the protection for which they
have been designed. A slack belt will
greatly reduce the protection afforded to
the wearer.
Care should be taken to avoid contamination of the webbing with polishes, oils
and chemicals, and particularly battery
acid. Cleaning may safely be carried out
using mild soap and water. The belt
Correct position of /he seat bell

should be replaced if webbing becomes

frayed, contaminated or damaged.
It is essential to replace the entire assembly after it has been worn In a severe impact even if damage to the assembly is not obvious.
Belts should not be worn with straps
twisted.
Each belt assembly must only be used
by one occupant; it is dangerous to put
a belt around a child being carried on the
occupant's lap.
No modifications or additions should be
made by the user which either prevent
the seat belt adjusting devices from operating to remove slack, or prevent the
seat belt assembly from being adjusted
to remove slack.

lntenor equipment

17

Child safety
To travel safety in the car, children must be
restrained in some way. How ever. the re
stramt used must be suitable for the s1ze of
the child. For this reason, before htllng any
type ol safety seat or harness , consult your
Saab dealer, who will be pleased to advise
you on the most suitable type of restraint.
When a child is able to sit up by 1tset1, a
property fitted ch1ld seat prov1des the best
protection. However. these should no
longer be used when a child has outgrown
them. 1.e. when they no longer prov1de am
pie support for the head and legs.
When a child has outgrown child seats. the
standard seat belt With a booster cush1on
should be used. Make sure that you are
familiar with the law regarding child
passenge rs.

Child restramt anchorages. 900

Comb/ Coupe and Sedan

so 136

Ch ild restraint anchora ges, 900

Combl Coupe and Sedan (Australi a
only)
To attach the restraints:
1 Remove the covering plugs lrom the
holes under the two cross-shaped cuts
10 the luggage compartment flOor car-

pet
2 Fasten the anchor bolts with the1r
shackles in the holes, using spec1ally
designed spacers.
3 Bolt dimens1on UNC 5116. lenghl 25
mm. Spacer d1mensoon: 20 mm o (hole
12 mm o). thickness 10 mm.
so 766

18

Interior equipment
4 After removing ghe head rest, attach
the child restraint to the anchorage by
fastening the anchor bolt in the hole.
Bolt d1mens1on UNC 5116, length 2025
mm (Australia)

WARNING:

G
I'
)

<.

Child restraml anchorages.

900 Convertible

$GIOI9

Child restraint anchorages, 900

Convertible (Australia only)
To attach the restraints.

1 Raise the convertible top and lower the

Do not lower the top wrth passengers 1n

the rear seat area
When dnVlng wrth me top lowered and a
ch ld restra1nt 1n me back seat. do not fit
the cover pane s
Child restra nt anchorages are destgned
to w1thstand only those loads imposed by
correctly f11ted child restramts Under no
carcumstances are mey to be used for
adult seat belts or harnesses.

Rear-view mirrors
The rear-v1ew m~rror IS of the anti-dazzle
type and can be deflected by means of the
lever underneath the m1rror.
The door m1rrors are ant1g1are treated and
are adjustable by means of the levers on
the ms1de of the front doors

Some models are equ1pped w1th

electncally adjustable door m1rrors The
swrtches for these are located on the 1nstru
ment panel. to e1ther s1de of the steenng
wheel The switches may be moved up,
down, left or nght.

Door mrrror

rear screen.
2 Operating from outside of the car. lo
cate the zippers situated In the space
between the back seat and the rear
screen, just below each head rest
Open the zipper.
3 Detach the head rest by unscrewing the
wing screw which locks the head restraint. Remove the head rest and
retighten the screw.

SG921

Interior equipment

Catch for door mirror

(Convertible)

SG388

900 Convertible: If subjected to excesstve

force, the door mirrors will fold back. They
can also be parked in this position. Caretully fold the mirror backwards until it engages the catch. To release the mirror.
press it back and push in the catch.
If subjected to excessive force, the mirrors

fitted to Convertibles will fold back. The mirrors can also be parked in the folded back
position. Carefully fold the mirror backwards until it engages the catch. To release
the mirror, push it further into the folded
positon to take pressure off the catch. Push
in the catch and release the mirror.

Front ashtray and cigar lighter

1 Spring catcll
2 Cigar tighter

Ashtrays
The car is fitted with two ashtrays: one is
incorporated in the radio console and the
other at the back of the centre console between the front seats.
To remove the front ashtray from its hOus
ing, depress the spring catch (as shown)
and pull the ashtray out of the housting. To
replace the ashtray, simply push it back into
the housing.
To remove the rear ashtray, make sure it is
fully open and then press down and pull it
forward . To refit the ashtray, engage the
two springs in the corresponding lugs,
press down on the ashtray and push it in.

19

20 Interior equipment

------- -------------- ------- ------- -------------- ------- r

.

SWitches for electric WindOWS and

SWitch to render door sw1tches for
rear WindoWS inoperat1ve

SG1118

Electric windows

/a

The two-position rocker switch

es forthe electric windows are located on
the sw1tch panel on the centre oonsore. The
sw1tches for the front-doors w1ndow have a
thrrd pos1tion beyond the spring-loaded de
tent pos1tion. With the sw1tch in this posi
tion , the window will open fully wrthoutlhe
need to keep the switch depressed. Door
switches are also provided for operation of
the rear windows but these can be ren
dared inoperative by a sw1tch on the centre
console (mari<ed ON/OFF) to prevent ch11d
ren ptay1ng with them

--

::..---Door sWitch for reat

window

SG 237

WARNING
Always remove the ognrllon key when
leavrng ll1e car to avert the risk of injury
arising from unattended children opera!
1ng the Windows

Sunroof handle

Sunroof
To open the sunroof: slide the panel back
by means of the handle. Release the han
die when the sunroof is open the desired
amount, whereupon ot will lock in that posi
bon. To close the sunroof: shde the panel
forward by means of ll1e handle, mak1ng
sure that 11 clicks shut

Interior equipment
A manual winder for emergency operation
ol the sunroof (e.g. in the event of an electrical fault) is filled to the sunroof motor. The
motor is located on the right-hand side underneath the luggage compartment floor.
To close the sumrool, rotate the winder in a
clockwise direction.

Convertible top
GENERAL SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS
R00 F
Some models are equipped with
an electric sunroof. The switch tor the sunroof is located at the front of the centre console.
Manual operation of sunroof

When raising or lowering the top, keep

hands well clear of the hinges, linkages
and windscreen frame.
Remove all objects from the space behind the rear seat before raising or lowering the top. This space is lor stowage
of the top only. Loose items left here
oould damage the rear screen or the top
assembly.
Before raising or lowering the top, check
that people are standing well clear. The
rear seat must not be occupied during
operation of the top.
Before lowering or raising the top, remove any child seats, carrycots, children o r infants from the rear seat.
Do not operate the top when the outside
temperature is below 35F (2"C).

21

Before driving off. make sure that the

top is either properly secured to the top
of the windscreen on both sides, or that
it is properly stowed behind the rear
seat
Before operating the ROOF switch,
make sure that the manual valve is
closed.
Do not run the car through an automatic
car wash as this is liable to damage the
top.
Do not lower the top when it is wet or
damp as moisture can damage or stain
the interior or cause mildew to form on
the fabric of the top.
The 900 Convertible is designed for a maximum of lour occupants including the driver,
two in the front and two in the back.
It is strongly advised that rear-seat passengers also wear seat belts at all times.

22 Interior equ1pment
lowering the top
CAUTION

~ .

}_ -

Keep hands well clear of the hinges and

lmkages when fowermg the top.
Before lowenng the top, make sure that
the rear seats are unoccupied and that
people are well clear of the car.
Remove any loose items from the space
beh1nd the rear seats (this space should
not be used for storage other than for
stowage of the top 1tself).
Note that the rear screen must e1ther be
raised and secured w1th the zipper or low
ered enbrely 1nto the space behind the
rear seats. Never leave 11 res11ng horizon
tally aganst the rear-seat backrest.
1 Apply the handbrake (The top cannot
be operated unless the handbrake IS
on.)
2 Turn the 1gnltlon key to the drive position.
3 Lower all side windows and the sun visors.
4 Undo the two latching handles, to release the hooks from the strikers.
5 Press the ROOF switch to ra1se the top
to the pos1t1on at which it will remain
open (approx. 1 2 feet (30 60 em)
above the Windscreen frame).

Latching l!ancJ/e
1 Hook
2 Smker

6 Re1urn the two handles to their original

positions

N.B.
SWitCh for ConvertOifl lOP

Failure to do so at th1s stage can result 1n

damage to the handles or the car uphol
stery.
7 Press the roof switch to lower the top
completely. Switch off the ignition.
8 Check that the inner lining of the top has
lolded down property behind and clear
of the top edge of the backrest. II not,
tuck 11 down by hand.

Interior equipment

23

the panel to engage the studs. Hook the

straps onto the studs on the front of the
panel.

CAUTION
Make certain the cover panels are secure
before dnvmg off.

Securing straps for middle panel

25mm
Ftttmg the side cover panel

SG 767

F itting the cover panels

Open the boot, unhook the elastic straps at
etther end of the storage bag and take out
the covers
Inspect and, 1f necessary. clear any <M
from the groove 1n the black metal ra' at the
back of the stowage compartment ( t ).
Starting w1th the panel for the righthand
side, Insert the rear edge into the groove in
the black metal rail, pos1tionmg the panel
approximately one inch (25 mm) in from the
end of the rail. Press down the front of the
cover (2) until it snaps into place and is retained by the spring clip. Slide the back into
pos1tion. in line with the black rail (3).
Fit the left-hand cover panel in the same
way.

N.B.
Make certain that the inner lining of the
top does not become trapped between
the panels and top o f the backrest.
W1th the boot hd open. slide the edge of the
m1ddle cover panel under the metal rail and
line up the studs w1th the corresponding
fasteners 1n the side cover panels. Insert
the straps on the back of the cover under
the boot lod and close the lid. Push down on

24

Interior eq~u~1p~m~e::!n~t----------------------------1 Apply the handbrake. (The top cannot

2

4
Fastener for m1dd/e panel stud

so 929

To remove the covers

Open the boot, unhook the straps from the
front of the middle panel and ease the panel
studs out of the fasteners. Raise the leading edge and remove the panel. To remove
the side panels, release the back edges
first.
Stow the cover panels on the bag (see onstructoons insode the bag).

Raising the top

CAUTION
Keep hands well clear of the hinges and
lonkages when raosong the top
Before raising the top. make sure that the
rear seats are unoccupie d and that peo
pie are well clear of the car.

be operated unless the handbrake Is

on.)
Lower aJI side wllldows and the sun vosors and remove the cover panels
Press the ROOF swotch and raise the
top to halfway Thereafter, lower it gently until it os approx 2 feet (60 em) above
the wondscreen frame (to prevent the
top closong too soon woth ensuing damage to the Iaten ng hooi<S).
Open the latelllng handles fully.
Press the ROOF swotch again unto! the
top comes to rest on the windscreen
frame.
With one hand on the grab ra1 at lhe
front of the rop hold the rop formly
agaonst lhe Windscreen lrame and lock
the top by push1ng the latching handles
fully home.

N.B.
Do not pull the too down by means of the
latching handles
7 Check that the hooks are properly engaged.

Latching handle
1 Hook
2 Stnker

SG1127

Latching mechanism m in locked position

Interior equipment

25

8 W1th one hand on the grab ra11 at the

front of the top, hold the top f~nnly
aga1nst the Windscreen frame and lock
the top by pushing the latch1ng handles
fully home
N.B.
Do not pull the top down by means of the
latchmg handles.

position by Velcro

SG969A

8 If necessary, adjust the Velcro fastening along the edges of the lop lining
(see picture)
9 Sw1tch off lhe 1gmt10n.

Raising the top manually

If necessary. '" the event of a system fail
ure. the top can be raised manually once a
hydraulic valve (behind a flap in the lnm at
the back of the boot) has been opened.
C AUTION
Keep hands well clear of the hmges and
linkages when ra1s1ng the top.
Before raising the top. make sure that the
rear seats are unoccupied and that people are well clear of the car.

Valve tor manual operatiOn of the

top

1 Apply the handbrake.

2 Lower all side windows and the sun

VI

sors
3 Open the manual valve fully by turmng
the hand e a quarter-tum ctockwlse.
4 Remove the oover panels and stow
them 1ns1de the bag. Do not secure the
bag 1n lhe boot yet.
5 From the rear seat. grip the grab rail on
the front of the top and raise the top to
the halfway position.
6 Open the latching handles fully.
7 Pull the top down onto the windscreen
frame.

9 Check that the hooks are properly engaged.

10 It necessary, adjust the Velcro fasten
ing along the edges of the top lin1ng
(see p1cture).
11 Fully close the manual valve by tum1ng
11 a quarter-turn anti-clockwise
12 Secure the bag in the boot.
Latching mechamsm in locked poSif/0{)

26

Interior equipment

Loweri ng the top manually

If required, in the event of a system failure.

the top can also be lowered manually, once
the hydraulic valve located behind a flap in
the tnm at the back of the boot has been
opened
CAUTION
Keep hands well clear oi the hinges and
linkages when towering the top.
Before lowering the top. make sure that
the rear seat is unoccupoed and that
people are well clear ol the car.
Remove any loose otems from the space
behond the rear seat (th1s space should
not be used for storage other than for
stowage o f the top Itself).
Note that the rear screen must either be
raised and secured with the zipper or
lowered entirely into the space behond
the rear. seats. Never leave rt restong
honzontally agaonst the rear-seat back
rests
1 Apply the handbrake.

2 Lower all side windows and the sun vi

sors.
3 Open the manual valve fully by turning
the handle a quarter-tum clockwise.
4 Open both latchong handles fully.

Latching handle
1 Hook

SGI127

2 Slriker

7
8

Holding the grab ratl at the front of the

top. partly raise the top and then retum
the latching handles to the closed posi
tion.
From the side of the car, With the open
palm of the hand under the stele of the
top frame. lift the top towards the back.
Keep hands well clear of the linkages.
Push the top right the way down behind
the rear seats.
Fully close the manual valve by turning
tl a quarter-tum anttclockwise. Replace
the trim panel over the valve.
Fit the cover panels as detailed ear1ter
in this section.

Support strap for rear screen

SG i60

Opening the re ar sc reen

The rear screen can be opened to provide
a greater flow of atr through the Interior
when the side wmdows are down. Open the
rear screen as follows:

1 Support the

s<:r~n

by securing the

strap to the hanger.

2 Release the hnong flaps on either side
adjacent to the S(:reen.
3 Open the zipper completely.
4 Undo the strap and lower the screen
carefully down behind the rear seats.
Resecure the lining flaps.

Interior equipment
CAUTION
To prevent damage to the rear screen.
never store any hard or sharp objects behtnd the rear seats.

Raising the rear screen

1 Open the latching handles at the front

2
3
4
5

of the top to release the tension in the

fabric.
Release the lining flaps on either side,
adjacent to the rear screen.
Lift the rear screen into position, secur
mg it by means of the strap.
Close the z1pper and resecure the lin
1ng flaps
Close the latch1ng handles.

27

Checking the level of the hydraulic

fluid (Convertible)
The reservotr is located underneath the
rear seat To remove the seat cushion. gnp
the front of the seat and lift it up.
The reservoir IS transparent to tac1htale
check1ng of the fluid level. The level should
be above the mark when the top is down,
and below the mark when the top is up. If
the level is low, do not add any fluid your
self. Contact an authorized Saab dealer,
who will check the system for leaks and top
it up with the special fluid required.

Hydraulicfluld reservoir

SG1131

Audio equipment
A cable tor the car aerial has already been

run 1n an models of the Saab 900. In some

models. cables have also been run for an
Ztpper tor rear screen

Removtng the seat cushiOfl

etectnc aenal. or complete with electric

aenal. and front and rear sets of speakers.
The cables are accessible behind mstru
ment panel console, the speaker cover on
the 1nstrument panel and behind the trim in
the luggage compartment.
Further details of these and other accesso
rles are contained in a leaflet available from
your Saab dealer.

Doors, locks and luggage compartment

29

Doors, locks
and
luggage
compartment
Doors . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Central locking . . . . . . . . . . .
Luggage compartment . . . ..
Bonnet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Glove compartment . . . . . . . .

30
30
31
32
33

30

-'-'e--'n"-1- - - - -- - - -- -- - - - - - - - - - Doors, locks and lugga.,_g.:..e....:c....:.o_m-"p....:.a--'rt-m

Doors

Central locking

Both front doors may be locked by key from

the outside. Most models have central lock
1ng. The key supplied with the car frts all
locks. The serial number of the key is
stamped on the disc on the keynng. Keep
the disc in a safe place and make a note of
the serial number In case a key is lost and
you need to order a replacement.

When the drrver's door is locked/unlocked,

all other <1oo1's Will a so be locked/unlocked
by the central loco<Jng system, the passenger doors can be unlocked by key from the
outside (front door only) or by raising the
locking buttons on the inside of the doors.
Similarly, the passenger doors can be
locked by the lockmg buttons when the central locktng system s unlocked. The luggage oompartrnem door can also be
locked/unlocked separately by key.

Door 111 3-doof modelS

LH door lock
1 To unlock
2 To lock

1 Wndow regulatOf

2 Ooor handle
3 Closing handle

Child safety catch in 4-doof and

5-door models
1 Door can be opened !rom ins de or outside
2 Door can only be opened from outside

Doors, locks and luggage compartment

31

Luggage compartment door Saab 900

Sedan and Convertible
1 Lock operated by central lockng
system
2 Locked position cannot be un
locked by central locking system
3 To unlock when locked by central
locking system

Luggage compartment
To open the luggage compartment door,
release the catch in the handle. To close
the door, use the handle provided on the
inside.

Handle inside luggage compartment

door

Luggage compartment door.

Saab 900 Combi Coupe
1 To unlock

2 To lock
3 Handle

The luggage compartment door is fitted

with a catch which holds the parcel shelf
upright to facilitate loading and unloading.

_an~
SG889

SG 888

To make more space in the luggage com

partment the parcel shelf can be removed,
or to extend the luggage compartment it
self, the rear seat can be folded flat. To do
this, release the catch for the seat cushion
by lifting the cushion strap and standing the
cushion on edge behind the front seats.
Remove the head restraints (if fitted) from
the backrest, release the backrest catch
and fold the backrest forward . Keep the
seat belt away from the fixing bracket when
the seat ts folded in order that the belt will
not become damaged or trapped.
The parcel shelf should be removed
when the backrest and seat cushion are
folded forwards. Otherwise, In the event
of a collision, it might be thrown forward
and cause injury.

32 Doors, locks and luggage compartment

Bonnet
The bonnet release handle is located on the
fefthand sode. underneath the onstrumen1
panel. To open the bonnet:
1 Pull the handle whereupon the leading
edge of the bonnet will spring up, provodong access to the safety catch.

Strap tor seat cusn10n

On the 900 Convenobte the seat is fixed
and cannot be folded.
The spare wheel. 1ack and tool kit are
stowed under a panel on the luggage com
partment floor.

CAUTION
Make sure that the belts do not be<:ome
trapped when the rear seat os tipped for
ward or folded back.

Backrest catCh

SG 875

Bonnet release handle

Doors, locks and luggage compartment

Glove compartment

Bonnet safety catch

SG90l

2 Press down on the leadng edge of the

bonnet and pull the catch forwards The
leadng edge of the bonnet will now
spnng up enabling the bonnel to be
tilted forward.

Glove compartment
1 To unlock
2 To lock

3 To open

SG897

33

Starting and driving

35

Starting and
driving
Ignition switch and gear lever
lock ... . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .
Starting the engine . . . . . . . .
Running in . . . . .
. . . . .
Gear changing . . . . . . . ... .
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . ..
Steering characteristics .. ..
Braking . . . . . . . . .. . ....
Economical motoring . . . . . . .
Driving in winter weather ....
Driving in hot climates . . . . . .
Towing a trailer or caravan ...
Driving with a roof-rack load . .
Driving with a load-carrier
(900 Convertible). . . . . . . . . .
Driving with the luggage
compartment door open . . . . .
Driving with the compact spare
wheel fitted . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Boost starting using jump
leads ... . .. . .. . . . . ....
Towing the car . . . . . . . . . . .

36
36
38
39
40
42
41
42
43
44
44
45
45
45
45
45
46

36

Starting and driving

WARNING

Ignition switch and

gear lever lock

Starting position

The 1gnotion SWitCh has the following posi

lions:
p

Locking position

L.,~.s
~

The ignition key can only be removed when

the gear lever is in reverse (R) or the se
lector lever (automatic gearbox) is in the P
position. In lhls position the gear lever/se
lector lever is locked and the parking lights
and hazard warning lights can be switched

on.

Lft'\s

Parking position

\.V

The gear lever/selector lever is unlocked

and the d1pped beam. tall lights and num
ber plate Illumination are SWitched on, provided that the lighting SWltch IS in the head

light position.

Drive position

L.,a.

1)

The entire electrical system is operative.

Never leave the key In the drive position
unless the engine Is running.
Never leave the Ignition switche-d on
(key In drive position) without the en
glne running as this can damage the ig
nltlon system.

~
reThis operates the starter motor. When
leased. the key spnngs back automatically
to the drive pos1t1on. The car is equipped
with a starter Interlock device, which means
that if the engine fails to start the key must
be returned to the parking position before it
can be turned to the starting position again.

Starting the engine

General
The starter motor should not be run for
more than 15 seconds at a time. Wait 20
30 seconds before runmng the starter mo
tor again to g1ve the bat1ery lime to recover.
When start1ng in very cold weath er, make
sure that all heavy power oonsumers are
switched off (e.g. heated rear window and
headlights).
Avoid racing the engine or putting a heavy
load on It while it is cold. Drive off as soon
as the oil warning light has been extin
guished, to enable the engine to reach its
normal running temperature as soon as
possible.

When start1ng the car inside a garage,

make sure that the garage doors are
open to allow the poisonous exhaust
gases to escape.

Starting fuel-Injection engines

The engine has an automatic choke and
should be started as follows:
1 (Manual gearbox only) Depress the
clutch pedal.
(Automatic gearbox) Note that the en
gine can be started only when the se
lector lever is in the P or N position .
2 Turn the key to the starting position and
let it spring back as soon as the engine
has started (1n very cold weather it may
be necessary to keep the starter motor
runmng for up to fifteen seconds) . Let
the eng1ne run for about ten seconds
before touching the accelerator pedal.
Do not run the engine on full throttle
(accelerator hard down) until the eng~ne
has been runmng for at least two or
three minutes.
In very cold weather, if the engine should
stall soon after having been started (e.g. as
a result of the clutch having, been released
too quickly), hotd down the accelerator and
turn the engine over on the starter motor for
about 5 10 seoonds to prevent the engine
from becoming flooded (fuelfair m1X1ure too
mch). Thereafter. start the car in the normal
way

Starting and driving

Note that the engine has hydraulic cam followers (whiCh operate the valves) and
these are completely servoce-free. The
valve cleararoce IS set up accurately at the
factory and wtll not require further adjustment.
In oerta1n cond11tons the hydraulic cam followers may emit a tickmg noise that can be
heard Inside the car. For instance. the noise
may be heard for a few seconds immediately after the engine has been started until
the oil pressure has buill up.

Important points to note when

driving (900 Turbo 16 models)

It is possible lor air to enter the lubricating

the car to an authorized Saab workshop

without delay. Under certain atmospheric
conditions, the needle may briefly enter
the broken red zone, but thts 1s normal
and does not Indicate a malfunction.
The engine IS also equipped w1th a safety
cut-out to prevent the engine exceedtng
approx. 6,000 r/min.

system when the oil or oil filter is changed

or if the car has bean left standing for a prolonged period. In this case the ticking noise
may be heard for as long as f1fteen m1nutes
after starting, but, aga1n. th1s is normal and
does not indicate any malfunction. However. do not exoeed 3,000 r, min until the
noise has disappeared

1 Start1ng and dnving

Never accelerate at full throttle before the
read1ng on the temperature gauge is normal (needle in green zone).
If the needle on the pressure gauge re
peatedly enters the red zone, a loss of
engine pow er may be experienced owing
to the safety cut-out system limiting the

charging pressure. II this happens. take

2 Stopp1ng the engtne

Do not rev the engine immediately before

sw1tching 1t off but switch it off only when
it is 1dling This 1s to ensure that the turbo
compressor 1s not run unnecessarily
without adequate oil pressure.

37

3 Automatic Performance Control (APC)

The APC system is designed to g1ve opllmum engine performance when 97 octane fuel (RON) 15 being used. When fuel
of thts or a htgher octane rating 1S used
the eng1ne wtll deliver maximum power
However. one of the advantages of the
APC system is that the engine can be run
on cheaper grades of low-octane fuel
(mtnimum : 9 1 octane RON) quite safely
The same performance as that achieved
with 97 octane fuel can also be achieved
lor short bursts. In general, a high-octane
fuel will give the best performance and a
low-octane fuel the best fuel economy.
The APC system adjusts the boost suppiled by the turbo to suit the knocking/pinking tendencies of the engine. Bnef
spells of knocking 1n the engine are perfectly normal. These can occur when a
heavy load 1s put on the engine at about
3,000 rlmtn and the extent of the knockIng w111 depend on the grade of fuel be1ng
used.
Isolated 1nstances of knockmg are more
likely when low-octane fuel is being used
This controlled form of knocking followed
by a reduction in the charging pressure
merely indicates that the APC system 1s
working normally, and is perfectly safe
for the engine.
However, if constant knocking occurs every time a load is put on the engine. th1s
1nd1cates a malfunction in the system.

38

Starting and driving

Important considerations for cars

with catalytic converter (certain
models only)
The catalytic converter os an exhaust
mission control devoce oncorporaled m the
exhaust system. II consists of a honeycomb
ceramoc onsert, the cells of whoch have theor
walls coated with catalyloc matenal (plato
num and rhodoum).
To ensure that the catalytoc converter func
lions properly and to avood damage to the
active constituents of the catalyst the fol
lowing poonts must be observed
Use only unleaded petrol (Use of leaded
petrol will damage the catalyst and oxy
gen sensor and drastocally reduce the
performance of the devoce.)
Always keep the car properly serviced on
accordance with the servoce programme
This applies particularly to the fuel and
ignition systems.
Always be alert to any mosfiring of the
engine (engine not runnong on all cylin
ders) . any loss of power or any symptom
o f reduced performance. At the forst sign
of anything being wrong, reduce speed
and take the car to an authorized Saab
dealer as soon as possible.
If the car is difticult to start (in severe cold
or if the battery is llat) the car can be
started with the use of jump leads from
another battery (see the section on start
ing assistance). However, as soon as the
engine has started, it is omportant that ot

runs on all four cylinders. If not, let the

engone idle for a maximum of five min
utes to gove ol tome to run smoothly. If, af
ter thos penod. the engine still misfires.
the spark plugs must be replaced. If the
engme fao ls to run properly even after
new plugs have been fitted. get in touch
woth an authonzed Saab dealer.
Never dnve oft of the engine is misfiring !
If the car os beong bump started and the
engone os already at about normal tern
perature. ll'le engone must run on all four
cylinders ommedoately after starting.

Oxygen sensor regulated II!Jeclion system

t ElectroniC contro umt
2 Oxygen sensor
3 CatalytiC converter

If after a bumpstarting attempt the eng one

fails to stan ommedlately. do not attempt
to stan ot agam by bump stanong.
Faolure to follow these directoons can result on damage to the catalytic convener
and assooated components and may
represent a breach of the warranty condotons.

Running in
Postons. cy onder walls and bearongs need
time to bed on. to obtaon unoform, wearreSistant surfaces tf a new eng one os driven
too hard. thos gradual process of wearing on
will not be possoble and the hie of the engine woll be shortened
Accordingly for the forst 3,000 km or so
never drive the car at full throttle other than
momentarily .
In the case of turbo-engine cars, durong the
first 2.000 km do not exceed 5.000 r/min.

Running In of new brake pads

The running-in period for new brake pads
is around 150 km of coty driving or sao km
of highway motoring . To extend the service
life, avoid hard braking durong this period.

$G1002

Starting and driving

Gear changing
Manual gearbox
The gear positions are marked on the gear
lever. Before reverse gear can be engaged,
the release ring underneath the gear lever
knob must be lifted.
To change gear, fully depress the clutch
pedal and then release it smoothly. Never
slip or ride the clutch nor use it as a footrest
as this causes abnormally high wear on the
release bearing and clutch: the pedal
should be all the way up or all the way
down.
Before selecting reverse. make sure that

Gear lever and gear positions (manual gearbox only)

I2 4I

R
SG3l1

SG866

the car is stationary and that the engine is

at idling speed.
For maximum fuel economy it is recommended that you change up at the following road speeds:
Gear change
l SI 2nd
2nd 3rd
3rd 4th

25 mph (40 km/h)

40 mph (65 km/h)

4th 5th

45 mph (75 km/h}

39

NO

Road speed
15 mph (25 kmih)

Selector lever (automatic gearbox

only}

Automatic gearbox
The selector positions are marked on the
console cover.

P = Park
R = Reverse
N = Neutral
D = 1st 3rd gear
2 = 1st 2nd gear
1 = 1st gear only

PR21

ing a drive position to prevent the car from

creeping. Don't drive the car with your hand
resting on the selector lever, since this may
cause wear of the transmission .

Selector positions
forward speeds

To prevent damage to the gearbox, some

gears can only be selected after the button
in the top of the selector lever has been de
pressed (see illustration). The selector le
ver will move freely from the R, 2 or 1 po
sitions to the D or N position.
When the car is at a standstill, do not move
the selector lever except when the engine
is at idling speed; moving the selector lever
while your foot is on the accelerator will be
detrimental to the gearbox. Always keep
your foot on the brake pedal when select-

D
This is the position for normal forward driv
ing. The gearbox will automatically select
whichever of the three forward gears best
matches the vehicle speed and load on the
engine.

2
When this position is selected, there will be
automatic changing between first and sec
ond gears but third gear cannot be se
lected. If the car is travelling in third gear

40

Starting and driving

with the sele<:tor in the D position. move

ment of the lever to pos1tion 2 will give an
immed1ate change-down to second gear for
greater eng1ne braking power. Position 2
must not be selected at road speeds exceeding 55 mph (90 kmlh).

1
Position 1 may be used to obtain maximum
engine-braking on steep downhill or uphill
slopes to avoid repeated gear changing,
which can lead to overheating of the gearbox oil. If the lever is moved from position
D to position 1 while the car is in third gear,
an immediate change-down to second gear
wilt take place. Onoe the speed of the car
has dropped below abou1 37 mph (60
kmlh), the car will change down to first gear.
Never move the lever to this position at
speeds exoeed1ng 55 mph (90 kmlh). Sec
ond and third gears cannot be engaged
when the lever is '" position 1.

N
With the sele<:tor in this position, the car is
in neutral and no power is transmitted to the
wheels. Remember to apply the handbrake
to prevent the car rolling if on a slope.

R
This is the position for reverse gear. Never
select this pos1tion if the car is moving forward.

p
Th1s IS the pos111on for parking. The lever
must be 1n th1s pos1tion before the IQr'llliOO
key can be turned to the locking pos111on
and Withdrawn. In ths pos1t1on, the selector
lever is locked and the gearbox immObilized.
Never select position P when the car is
moving

Driving off
1 With the brakes applied, move the se
lector lever to a dnve position (position
D IS normal for forward driving).
2 Release the brakes and apply the accelerator
K ick-d o w n

If a change-down is reqwed for maximum

acceleration. e.g. for overtaking. press the
accelerator hard down, beyond the fullthrottle poSition. For instance, if the accelerator is pushed down to the kick-down position when the car is travelling at a speed
of between 34 and 65 mph (55 105 kmlh),
the car will immediately change down to
second gear. As soon as the engine
reaches the maximum speed for the selected gear or the accelerator is released,
the car will automatically change up to the
next gear.

Cruise control
WARN ING

Do not use the cruise control system

when the roads are wet or slippery or in
dense traffiC When the system is not in
use, the sw1tch should be in the OFF position.
Certain vanants are equipped with the
cruise-control system as standard; on oer
lain other variants the system is available
as an option
The cruise control system is operated by
two sw1tches Incorporated in the left-hand
stalk switch. The stid1ng switch has four po
slltons OFF. TIP, ON and RESUME. The
push-button sw1tch 1n the end of the stalk is
the SET SPEED sw1tch.

CruiSe CCHltrol sWitches

Starting and driving

To select the requl red speed

Temporary red uction in speed

Move the swotch to ON. Accelerate to the

required speed (lowest speed: 25 mph or
40 km/h) and press SET SPEED.

The cruose contr~ system os always can

celled by operabon of tne brake or the
clutch pedal. A smoother reducuon on
speed os ootSJned by movmg the shd ong
SWitch to poSIIJOn TIP However. the system
can be brought onto operation agaon for the
preselected speed by holdong the swotch in
the RESUME posotoon for a few moments.

To reduce the selected speed

Touch the brake pedal until the requored
speed is obtained and then press SET
SPEED.

Disengagin g the system

To increase the sel ected speed
Accelerate to the required speed and then
press SET SPEED SPEED. It is also pos
sible to increase the speed by means of the
SET SPEED control. The speed will in
crease for as long as SET SPEED os de
pressed
Temporary Increase in speed
The system allows you to increase speed
temporarily, for instance to accelerate for
overtaking. When the accelerator is re
leased the system will then revert to the
preselected speed.

The cruise control system woll be disen

gaged (switched off).
If eother the brake pedal or clutch pedal
IS depressed
If the swotch os moved to TIP
If the swotch IS moved to OFF
When the engne os SWilcheo oH

41

Braking
When dnvong in alpine 001mtry and somolar
condotoons. to avood the risk of the brakes
overheatong on long descents, always use
the brakong eHect of the engine by dnvong
on a low gear. If your car has an automatoc
gearbox, posotoon 1 or 2 should be selected
In high-speed motoring, the life of the
brakes can be increased: Avoid brakong
over long stretches. Instead, brake more
firmly over a shorter period o f time.
CAUTION

II os good practice to try your brakes pe

riodically whole driving but particularly so

of you have been drivong through snow
slush or deep puddles or fords; of the
brakes are wet. their eHiciency may be
drastocally reduced until they dry out.
Braking with ASS anti-lock brakes
To stop as quickly as possible, press the
pedal hard down regardle ss of the cond1to0n
of the road surface (dry. wet, slippery, etc.).
The ABS system modu lates the bra kong
pressure to the respective wheels to main
taln the maximum braking eHect on the car.
wothout loss of directions I stability or steer
ing control. A distinctive pulsating noise can
be heard when the system is operating
Because operation of the ABS system

42

Starting and driving

will be 1n1hated by only light pedal pressure

if the road IS slippery. you can test the con
dillOn of the road by trying your brakes and
then adapt your driving accordingly.

Steering
characteristics
The car has a built-1n tendency to under
steer, I.e. at a given position of the steering
wheel the tum1ng circle tends to 1ncrease as
the speed of the car increases. The car 1s
deliberately designed this way to Improve
stability and reduce the likelihood of rear
wheel skids. One of the ways In which un
dersteer has been achieved Is through the
weight distribution: including the weight of
the dnver. about 60% of the veh1cle weight
is over the front wheels; the corresponding
f1gure for a fully loaded car IS 50 %

Economical motoring
To keep fuel consumption down and wear
to a minimum. the car needs to be driven
smoothly and gently and serviced regularly.
Avoid hard acceleration. (Cars with a man
ual gearbox) avoid racing the engine and
observe the recommended speeds for
changing gear given under Gear chang
lng
Frequent gear changing (e.g. town drMng).
short tnps when the engine is cold. dnving

Wl1h a roof racK or trailer attached and run

ning on studded snow tyres aft increase fuel
consumpllon
Conditions affecting fuel
consumption
Fuel consumption IS greatly affected by the
general driVIng cond11lons and the style of
driving. the weather the standard of the
road, the cond1t10n of the car, the speed at
which it IS dnven etc

__
__
,..
....,

......'"

...

...'"'..

.... '"'-t'---..
..
""'
U

Weather cond ltlons

Fuel consumption may be as much as 10%
better in summer than 1n winter. Fuel con
sumption is higher in cold weather because
of the longer lime it takes for the engine to
reach normal temperature and for the trans
mission and wheel beanngs to warm up.
Fuel economy IS also affected by the dis
tance driven short tnps no lOnger than 5 8
km do not grve the eng,ne suffic1ent time to
reach its normal run01ng temperature.
Strong winds can also aHect fuel consump
tion.
If the general fuel consumption for the car
with the engine at normal temperature is
1.0 ltr/10 km, then the actual fuel consump
tion after the car has travelled 5 km after
starting from cold will be 1.20 ltr/1 0 km at
an ambient temperature of 20,C an 1n
crease of 20 %; 1 60 ltr/10 km at O'C an
increase of 60 %: and 2.0 ltr/1 0 km at an
ambient temperature of 20'C an increase
of 100%

_,...._

I'
\

251-$ $ 6 1 U 1f H 1l
141 t. itl tiiOIItbi U 11 11111 tJOI

'

ttl

..... t-20")
' l7'f,,.,

..,.,

.... , ....

sG Ol2
Graph showing the Increased fuel
consumption at different outdoor tem
peratures on cold starting as against
starting with the engine at normal
temperature

When starting from cold, the distance trav

elled by the car and the temperature out
side greatly affect fuel consumption, as
shown on the graph. For Instance, if you
use the car predominantly for short trips (5
8 km), the average fuel consumption may

be 60 80 % higher than normal.

Road conditions
Wet roads increase fuel consumption as do
gravel roads and dnv1ng in hilly country (the
amount of fuel saved driv1ng downhill is less
than the additional amount required for driv
1ng uphill).

Starting and driving

Driving style and techn ique
Driving at high speed, frequent accelera
lion, braking and gear changing all increase
fuel consumption , whereas smooth driving
will reduce il. Since engine revolutions are
higher in the low gears at a given road
speed, frequent or prolonged dnvtng in low
gears will increase fuel oonsumptlon. For
this reason, always change up to a htgher
gear as soon as the traffic oondtttons allow
and drive in htgh gear for as long as pos
sible.
Practical trials on the roads have demon
strated that substantial savings in fuel oon
sumption can be made if these tips are fol
lowed.

The condition of the car

The general condition of the car is of great
tmportance to fuel economy. For economi
cal motoring, pay particular attention to the
following :
Make sure that the car Is serviced regularly In accordance with the service pro
gramme.
Make sure that the tyres are correctly in
flated: If the lyres are soft their rolling resistance will be higher and fuel consumption will be Increased.
A roof rack reduces the aerodynamic ef
ficiency of the car and thus increases fuel
consumption . Remove the roof rack
when not in use.

Towing a ca ravan or trailer greatly in

creases fuel consumption.

Driving in winter
weather
Before drivmg off in cold weather, check
that the wtndscreen and headlight wiper
blades have not become frozen to the
glass. Brush away any snow from the air
tntake for the heating system and, tn extremely COld weather, apply suitable lubri
cant (molybdenum disulphide) to the door
locks to prevent their freezing. If a lock has
frozen, take care not to break the key when
trytng to unlock tl. Heat the key first or apply some detcing agent to it.
Now and agam when refuelling in the winter. add a fuel additive to the fuel to prevent
any condensation in the fuel tank freezing
and dtsrupttng the fuel supply. To keep
down the nsk of condensation, keep the
fuel tank full.
It is particularly tmportant when the roads
are slippery that the brakes and lyres are in
good condtlton. The basic version of the
Saab 900 is fitted with radial tyres that also
perform well on icy and snow-covered
roads provided the snow is not too deep.
Other models in the Saab 900 range are fit
ted with lyres which provide exceptional
grip on both wet and dry roads. although
this has been achieved at the expense of
somewhat reduced grip on snow and ice.

43

For driving in these conditions, we therefore

recommend that special winter tyres be Itt
ted. These provide the best grip on icy
roads, especially if fitted with studs.
If winter tyres are to be used. the same type
of tyre must be fitted to all four wheels. Your
local Saab dealer will be pleased to advise
you of suttabte tyres.
If the car gets into a front-wheel skid, dis
engage the transmtssion by depresstng the
dutch (so that the wheels are freewheeling)
and steer the front wheels tn the dtrection
you wish to go. At all costs, avoid touching
the brakes. To control a rear-wheel slod,
steer into the sktd (i .e . steer tn the dtrection
the rear of the car is movtng).
Conventional snow chains may be fitted to
the front wheels but drive carefully if these
are fttted as sharp comerong and excessive
movement of the suspenston may cause
the chains to scrape against the body.
Before fitting snow chatns, you are strongly
advised to consult your Saab dealer, who
will be pleased to give you details of the legal and safety requirements Involved and
also to advise you o f the suitability ol fitting
chains to the wheels and tyres on your par
ticular car.

44 Starting and driving

Driving in hot climates

1 Always check the coolant level before

starting your JOUrney

2 Dnve the car rn the htghest gear 1)0$$1
ble even uphill (thrs keeps the eng1ne
revs down wrth the result that the en
!JIOe does not get so hoi) If your car ha$
an automatiC gearbox , aVOid U5Jil9 the

kiCk-down luncllon
3 At the end of your f()Umey, do not stop
the engrne 1mmedrately but let 1t Idle for
two or three m1nutes f1rst
4 If the needle on the temperature gauge
enters the red zone wh1le you are dnv
lng
Stop the car immediately but do not
sw1tch off the engine
Even 1f the ex.pansion tank is empty, do
not remove the l1ller cap.
Pour cold water over the radiator untrl the
needle on the temperature gauge has
fallen below the red zone
Swttch off the engine
Wart unulthe needle on the temperature
gauge ind1cates normal temperature
(about midway) and then remove the
filler cap on the ex.pansion tank and top
up the coolant.
Take the car to an authorized Saab work
shop as soon as possible.

Towing a trai ler or

caravan
Towing attachment
A towrng anacnmem suttable lot tOWlng
loads up to I 500 1<9 s avSJtable as an ac
cessory Pr()VlSIOn n me form ol bo4t holes
has already been maae to taclbtate fitbng
of the attactvnent

Trailer (or caravan) weight

On normal roads wrth gradients not exceed
1ng 10 %. the maxrmum permrssible trailer
welg~t Is 1.500 kg. On roads with steeper
grad1ents (10 12 % ). the corresponding fig
ure Is 1.200 kg and on roads wrth steep
gradients (1215 %) the frgure is 850 kg
These figures apply to traders wrth brakes:
The max1mum perrnisSlbitl werght of a
trailer w1thout brakes rs 500 kg
A trader should not be towed If grad1ents of
15 % or more are ltkely to be encountered
ThiS IS because the load on the front (drrv
1ng) wheels will be so lOw that the wheels
ore likely to lose their traCtiOn and sprn,
makrng further driving impossible.
Make sure you are familiar with the law
regarding speed limits for towing , max
lmum trailer weights and trailer braking
requirements and also any special drlv
lng licence provisions.

Towing attachment load

The werght drstnbutron of the trarler load
makes a lot of difference to the handling
propertres ol the car and trarler comell\a
liOn On a srngleaxle trSJier whenever pos
srble concentrate the load over the wheels
and keep II as lOw as poss~ble The load
should be Clrstnbuted such that the lOad on
the tOWlng attachment rs between
and
75 kg Note that tills lOad must be tnctuded
as part ol the car s carryrng capaetty.
thereby reduong the load capacuy of the
luggage compartment by the same amount ,
II heavrer tra11ers are to be towed 11 1s re
commended that pneumatrc spnng boOst
ers, available as an accessory. be fitted

so

Driving with a trailer attached

When towing a trailer always make allow
ance lor the altered handling charactenstlcs
of the car and the reduced braking effect
The traoler brakes. spnngs and dampers
greatly lnlluence these charactenstrcs
To provide maxrmum cooling lor the engrne
when towrng a tra11er up steep hills. sat the
heating system to maxrmum and sw1tch the
lan to htgh speed
(Cars wrth an automattc gearbox) For dnv
lng on steep uphill or downhill slopes wrth a
trailer attached, move the selector lever to
position t ,

Starting and driving

Driving with a roof-rack

load
The maximum permitted load carried on the
roolrack is 100 kg/220 lb (nla Convertible).
Note that roof-rack loads are included in the
car's carrying capacity. The roof-rack
mountings must be robust and able to with
stand high stresses and the load must be
securely lashed. In some countries, special
speed restrictions apply to cars carrying
roof-rack loads. A roof-rack designed spe
cially for the car is available from your Saab
dealer.

Driving with a loadcarrier

(900 ConvertibW
e)
The maximum load permitted on a carrier.
bar system on the 900 Convertible is 30 kg
(60 lb). Note that the carrier load is included
in the car's carrying capacity. Carrier
mountings must be robust and able to with
stand high stresses, and the load must be
tied down securely. Avoid high-speed driv
ing when carrying a load-carrier, and note
that in some countries special speed re
strictions may apply.
A load-carrier system designed specially for
the 900 Convertible is obtainable from your
Saab dealer.

Driving with the

luggage compartment
door open
Owing to the fact that driving with the lug
gage compartment door open enables ex
haust fumes to be drawn into the car, this
should be avoided whenever possible.
However, if this is unavoidable, close all
windows. and set the he<tting !Inc;! ventil!l
lion to maximum ventilation. and the high
est delroster setting.
If the car is to be driven with the luggage
compartment door open, always lash the
door securely to the bumper.

Driving with the

compact spare wheel
fitted
Please observe the following when driving
with the compact spare wheel fitted.
The lyre on the compact spare wheel
should be inflated to a pressure ol 420 kPa
(4.2 bar).
Do not drive any further than is necessary
as the maximum lile of the wheel is 3,500
km approx. Reinstall a standard unit as
soon as possible.
Do not exceed 80 km/h as this may cause

45

overheating of the tyre and deterioration of

the road manners.
Avoid driving too close to kerbs, as the
ground clearance is lower when the com
pact spare wheel is fitted.
Similarly. do not fit snow chains. Do not fit a
hub cap, as this would cover the warning
text.
The car must not be driven with more than
one compact spare wheel.

Boost starting using

jump leads
To avoid arcing or flashover that can seriously damage the car's electrical campo
nents, jump leads must be connected correctly.
1 Switch off the ignition and all power
consumers (lights, radio, etc.) in the
laulty car.
2 Switch off the engine in the donor car.
3 Start by connecting the positive ( +) terminal of the donor car battery to the
positive ( +) terminal of the flat battery

46

Starting and driving

4 Next connect the negabve (-) termonat

of the donor car battery to the engone
mountong of the faulty car, furthest away
from the battery (do not connect the
negative (-) lead from the donor car to
the faulty car battery because a spark
could ignite the explosive gas in the battery).
5 Start the donor car and then start the
engine in the faulty car: let It run lor a
whole before disconnectong the jump
leads in the reverse order

Towing the car

The car is equopped with towrope attachment eyes front and rear. Drive carefully
and never exceed the speed lim it lor towing. Keep the towrope taut and remember
that when the engine is not running. much
greater pressure will have to be applied to
the brake pedal as the servo lor the powerassisted brakes woll be inoperative. The
same applies lo the steering: without power
assistance. the steenng will be very heavy
Important points to note before being
towed If your car has an automa tic gearbox :
1 Make sure that the selector lever is in

Connecting jump leads for boost startmg

3
4

5
6

the N position.
II is vital that there is sufficient oil in the
gearbox. Accordongly, add two litres of
automatoc transmossoon fluid to bring the
level approximately 5 em above the
MAX mark.
Observe the natoonal speed limit applicable to vehocles on tow but, in any
case, do not exceed 40 kmlh.
Never tow the car over a greater distance than 40 - 50 km. If the dis lance is
g realer than this, the front wheels must
be raised off the ground.
Before the car is driven again, check the
transmissoon fluid level and adjust it to
the prescribed level.
N ote that cars wrth an automatic gearbox cannot be started by towing or
pushing.

Rear towrope aNachment eye

SG900

Car care and maintenance

Car care and

maintenance
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . .
011 filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cooling system .. . . . . . ..
Gearbox oil . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake fluid and brake pads . .

.
.
.
.
.
.

48
48
49
49
50
52

Power steering fluid reservoir . .

Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Alternator . . . . . . . ... ... .
Spark plugs and ignition
system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wipers . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
Washers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Headlight alignment .... . . . .
Changing bulbs .... . . . . . .
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheels and tyres . . . . . . . . .
Compact spare wheel. . . . .. .
Changing the wheels round ...
Air conditioning . . . . . . . . . .

52
53
53
54
54
55
55
56
58
60
62
62
63

Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Upholstery and trim .. .. ....
Texti le carpeting . . . . . . . . . .
Engine compartment ... . . . .
Wash ing the car ... .. .... .
Waxing and polishing . . .. . . .
Touching In the paintwork ....
Anti-corrosion treatment . . . . .
Service Program . . . . . . . . . .
Fault diagnosis. . . . . . . . . . .
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Motoring abroad . . . .. . . ...
Additional literature on the car .

47

63
63
64
64
64
65
65
66
66
67
68
68
68

48 Car care and maintenance

3

Engine
The car has a four-cylinder-In-line watercooled engine wtlh twin overhead camshafts and the cylinders inclined at 45 to
the right. The eng1ne is equipped with an
exhaust em1ss1on control system.
The ctU1ch IS mounted at the front of the engine, form1ng a unit with the gearbox below
it.

7
8
9

10

16 15

14 13

Under the bonnet of the Saab 900 Turbo 16

1 Power steenng fluod reservoor
2 Water pump
3 AC compressor
4 Alternator
S Clutch and brake Uuld reseovoir
6 Coolant expansoon tank
7 Engine oil dipstick
8 AJr cleaner

12

11

9 Efectronoc con1r01 unrt. APe-system

(TurboVe ectronoc control un~ . ignrtJon
system (infeciOOO engone)
10 Vacwm pump, cnJise control system
11 lntercoo ler
12 Ignition coil
13 Oistribu!or
14 Turbo unit
15 Battery
16 Washer fluid reservotr

Engine oil
Check the oil tevel 1n the engine regularly.
Make sure the car IS on level ground and
allow the eng1ne to cool from normal temperature for between two and five minutes.
Remove the dipstick, wipe it on a clean rag
and then check the level. The level must
never be allowed to drop below the minimum mark on the dipstick but nor should
the level be topped u~ higher than the maximum mark as this can result in excess1ve
oil consumptoon . The distance between the
MAX and MIN marks on the dipstiCk corresponds to approximately one litre. Top up
as necessary with oil of the recommended
grade through the dipstick tube. Do not add
oil if the level is higher than midway between the MAX and MIN marks. Make sure
that the dipstock IS screwed down tightly
(finger-tight) after use.

Car care and maintenance

The eng,ne oil should be changed at the 1n
tervals spec1f1ed In the service programme.

49

Cooling system
Expansion tank

N.B.
Take care not to oonfuse the drain plugs
for the eng1ne oil and gearbox oil.

Oil filter
The 011 filler must be changed at the Inter
vals specified In the Service Programme.
When frtMg a new filter, lightly lubricate the
rubbe' seal wtth engine oil and then tighten
the II :er by hand.

Otllilter

The expansion tank is transparent to facil

itate checking of the coolant level. The level
should be between the MAX and MIN
mar1<s on the stde of the tank. Top up as
necessary w1th equal parts of water and
Saab coolant After replenishing an empty
expansion tank, run the eng1ne to normal
temperature then top up again as required.

Coolant
The cooling system 1s charged at the lac
tory w1th a coolant containing 50 % spec1al
antifreeze and anti-oorrosiOil hqutd. The
mixture should never be weaker than thas
owing to the nsk of corrOSIOn . For protec
bon in extreme weather oond1t1ons a h1gher
Coolant expansion tank

50

Car care and maintenance

concentration will be necessary: tor protection at -50'C a 60 % concentration of antifreeze will be required.
The corrosion inhibiting properties of the
coolant deteriorate in time but Saab origrnal coolant must be used all the year.
Change the coolant as indicated in the service programme. Always use Saab original
coolant, as antifreeze of other makes may
require changing more frequently.
N.B. When adding antifreeze to the coolant,
always mix it with water in the required proportions first. If neat antifreeze is added. the
engine may still be damaged by frost as the
antifreeze will not be distributed throughout
the cooling system until the thermostat has
opened, allowing full circulation.

Checking the freezing point of the

coolant
Check the freezing point of the coolant in
good time before the onset of winter. This
can be done at most garages and service
stations.

CAUTION
The cooling system is a pressurized system. Always open the filler cap on the expansion tank carefully, releasing any
vapour before removing the cap.

Radiator drain cock

so ~9

Changing the coolant

1 Set the heater control (TEMP) to maximum.
2 If the engine is hot, open the filler cap
on the expansion tank carefully to release the pressure in the system. Do
not remove the filler cap.
3 Place a suitable receptacle under the
radiator and unscrew the drain cock in
the bottom left corner, holding the inner

nut to prevent its turning.

4 Remove the ffiller cap on the expansion
tank.
5 Unscrew the drain plug in the right-hand
side of the block, underneath the ex
haust manifo ld. Allow the coolant to
drain completely.
6 Close the drain cock on the radiator, refit the drain plug in the block and make

sure that the TEMP control is still set to

maximum heat.
7 Open the bleed nipple for the cooling
system and add coolant to the expan
sion tank until it starts to flow out of the
nipple.
8 Close the bleed nipple and replace the
filler cap on the expansion tank.
9 Start the engine, run it up to normal
temperature and then top up the expansion tank as necessary.

Gearbox oil
Manual gearbox
Checking and topping-up of the gearbox oil
are part of the Service Programme.

Car care and maintenance

Automatic transmission fluid
The dipstick for the automatic transmission
fluid has different markings for hot and cold
fluid levels. Check the fluid level regularly
as follows :
1 Apply the handbrake and let the engine
idle for at least fifteen seconds with the
selector lever in the 0 position . There
after, move the selector to Rand again
let the engine idle for at least ftfteen
seconds. Now move the selector to P
and let the engine idle for a further fif
teen seconds.
2 With the selector still in P and the en
gine idling, check that the level of the
transmission fluid is between the MAX
and MIN marks on the dipstick.
The distance between the MAX and
MIN marks on the dipstick corresponds
to a volume of 0.5 ltr of transmission
fluid.
Note thai at very low temperatures the
fluid level may fall well below the nor
mal minimum level for a cold gearbox.

51

3 Top up with automatic transmission

fluid as necessary.
4 After topping up, leave the engine to
idle lor a lew minutes and then recheck

the level.
Wipe the dipstick using a nylon rag, lint
free paper or the like never use rags
liable to leave lint or fluff on it.
Always o bserve scrupu lo us cleanliness
when checking or topping up the trans
mission fluid.
AUI'omatic gearbox
1 Drain plug, gearbox
2 Drain plug, final drive

Automatic transmission fluid dipstick

Fluid level dipstick tor automatic gearbox

sn02

52 Car care and maintenance

Brake fluid and brake

pads
Check ing
The brake fluid reservoor is transparent to
facilitate checking of the fluid level. The
level should be between the MAX and MIN
marks. Note that if the car has ABS brakes
the level must be checked with the ignition
sw1tched on Top up as necessary w1th
brake fluid of the recommended grade, and
use only fluid from a tightly closed con
tainer, as fluid exposed to aor w1ll deteno
rate. In lime. the brake fluid will absorb wa
ter and vapour may be formed; rt IS
therefore vital that the brake fluid be
changed at the intervals sp ecified in the
Brake/clutch fluid reservo~r

Service Progra mme. Th1s work should be

done by an authonzed Saab workshop.
Snce the footbrake and handbrake have
automatic adjustment, 1t IS not possible to
detect when the brake pads are worn and
needing replacement by S'9J1S of excessive
pedal travel or lever I'TIOIIement. Thus 11 is
vital that the thicKness of the hn1ngs be
checked regularly as spec1fied in the Ser
v1ce Programme
The work of changing the brake pads
must be carried out by an author ized
worksh op using genuin e Sa~b brake
pads.

Brake;clutch fluid reservoor tears wth ABS}

Power steering fluid

reservoir
The level of the fluid in the power s teering
reservoir must be checked regularly as
spec1fied in the Service Book. The reservoir
has graduations for cold and hot fluid.
When the eng1ne is at normal running tern
peratur e the fluid level should be between
the HOT and COLD marks. If the level is
checked when the engine as cold, the level
should be between the COLD and ADD
marks. Top up with Texaco power steering
fluid 4634.

Power steenng llurd reserv w

Car care and maintenance

Battery
DANGER
The battery emits hydrogen which, when
mixed with the oxygen in the air, forms the
highly explosive gas. oxyhydrogen.
The electrolyte in the battery is dilute sulphuric acid and therefore highly corro
sive. Should the liquid come into contact
with the eyes, skin or clothes, wash im
mediately with plenty of water. In the
event of contact with the eye. or if a larger
quantity of liquid comes into contact with
the skin, after washing contact a doctor
immediately.
Heat shield above battery
1 Wing nuts

The battery is a low-antimony, easy-service

type which means that the electrolyte level
needs checking less frequently than in conventional batteries. The electrolyte level
should come to the bottom of the filler pipe.
Use only distilled water to top up the bat
tery. Check the charge of the battery at
regular intervals and more frequently during the winter when the battery's capacity
will be reduced by low temperatures.
If the car is used repeatedly for only short
journeys during the winter, the battery may
need a booster charge either by means of
a battery charger or by taking the car for a
longer run. Never reverse the polarity of
the battery.

If the battery leads are connected to the

wrong terminals or either of the battery or
alternator leads is disconnected while the
eng1ne is running , the alternator may be ir
reparably damaged. Always make sure that
you connect the red positive ( +) lead to the
positive (- ) battery terminal and the blue
negative (-) lead to the negative () battery
terminal. Always disconnect both battery
leads before connecting a battery charger
to boost the battery.

53

Alternator
The alternator, which is located to the left
of the engine compartment, close to the
bulkhead, is driven by two vee belts from
the crankshaft pulley. It is important that the
belts are correctly tensioned: if the belts are
too slack, tighten them by slackening bolt
(1) and adjusting the nut (2) (see illustra
tion). When the belts are correctly ten
sioned, it should be possible to deflect them
by about 5 mm at a point midway along their
length.

Checkmg the tension of the alternator dnve

belts

54

Car care and maintenance

The fmng order of the cylinders is 1-3-4-2
(number one cylinder is at the rear of the
engne)

Spark plugs and

ignition system
Owing to the very high voltage in the ignition system. ensure that the ignition switch
is 1n the Lock position (or, better still, key
removed) before touching any components
of the gnlhon system. If the engine is to run
smoothly and deliver maximum power and
torque, the recommended spark plugs must
always be used. If the spark plug gap (electrode gap) needs to be adjusted (see section 'Technical data for correct gap), make
the adjustment to the side electrode only.
Take care not to allow any d irt to enter
the cyflnders when removing the spark
plugs.

Wipers
Check and clean the windscreen and headlight wiper rubbers regularly. White spirit is
recommended for cleaning the rubbers. Renew the rubber blades as soon as there is
any sign o l wear.

To rBmOve the wmdscreen w1per blade

1 Squeeze the plastJc ctp
2 Move the Wlper blade '" lhe directioo of the
arrow

Conflguratl(}() of HT leads

Removmg the windscreen wiper rubber

Changing a windscreen wiper

rubber
Swing the wiper arm away from the windscreen. Squeeze the plastic clip and detach
the wiper blade.
To remove the rubber. s lide the rubber in
the d~rectoon of the arrow to release it from
the clip at the end. F~ the new rubber by
slld1ng 11 through the tour retainers and secure It 1n the end clip.

Changing a headlight wiper blade

Swing the arm away from the headlight.
Remove the blade and fit the new blade.

53797

SG907

Car care and maintenance

55

Washers
The washer fluid reservoir has a capacity
of 4. 7 litres. Top up regularly with a mixture
of Saab washer fluid and water, taking care
not to allow dirt to enter the reservoir.
To adjust the washer jets, insert a pin in the
jet hole and swivel to the correct position.

Adjustment of washer jets

SG898

Headlight alignment

Washer fluid resefloir

Adjustment of the headlight alignment is

nade by means of two knobs on the back
of the lamp unit, accessible Iron the engine
compartmen1. The top one is for lateral adjustmem and the bottom one for adjusting
the herght of the beam.

Knobs for headlight alignment

r Lateral adjustment
2 Adjustment of heighr of beam

N.B. Saab 900 Turbo. Be/ore lhe LH head-

lamp can be adjusted, the plastic air baHie

behind the unrt must first be removed. Disengage the baffle and pull it S1raight up.

SGSS~

56 Car care and mamtenan:::ce:::______ _____ _____ _____ ______ _

Changing bulbs

Do not l it bulbs with a higher rating than

Headlights

Front light clusters

Undo the screw cap on the back of the lamp

unit. N.B. Saab 900 Turbo: Before the LH
headlight bulb can be replaced, the plastic
air baffle behind the unit must first be removed Dtsengage the baffle and pull tl
straight up
Pull off the connector, open the retatntng
spnngs and withdraw the bulb.
Taking care not to touch the glass wtth your
fingers, tnsert the new bulb, makmg sure
that the three tongues engage the corresponding slots in the reflector and secure
the bulb holder with the two springs. Plug
on the connector and refit the screw cap.

Slacken the two nuts (1 and 2) and remove

the screw (3) Carefully pull out the lamp
housing The bulb holder has a bayonet fitting. Gnp the two plasltc tongues and twist
the bulb holder anttclookwtse. Pu lithe bulb
holder out of the fnng and change the bulb.
Make sure that the new bulb is securely Ittted and maktng good contact

60'55 w.

Front light cluster

1 Oirectoon ondtcator
2 Par1<ing hght
3 Side reversong loght (cettaon markets)

..
Front light cluster
13 S<:rews
4 01rection ind1cators
5 Parking light
6 Side reversong ltghl (certain markets)

Car care and maintenance

Rear light clusters (900 Sedan and
Convertible)
Remove lhe trim panel from the back of the
lamp unit in the luggage compartment. Fold
back the trim to expose the back of the unit.
Squeeze the clips, withdraw the unit and
replace the bulb that has blown.

Rear light clusters (Combi Coupe)

Undo the screws and remove the lamp
glass. Push in the bulb and twist it anticlock
wise to remove. Fit a new bulb, making sure
that it is secure and making good contact.
Wipe the bulb and lamp reflector with a soft
cloth and then replace the glass. making
sure that 1t makes a tight fit with the rubber
seal.

57

High-mounted stop light (certain

markets)
The bulb is accessible behind the cover at
the back of the light unit. Squeeze the cover
at the two ribbed markings. lift it off and
change the bulb.
900 Convertibl: Undo the two screws. Re
move the lamp glass and change the bulb.

Rear courtesy light (900

Convertible)

II'"'

Rear light cluster (900 Sedan and Convert

ible)
1 Direction tndicator

2 Reversing lighl
3 Rear light/brake lighl
4 Rear hghl
5 Rear fog lighl (LH or RH side only)

Rtlmuvtl
llim hom around the light to
gain access to the back of the light fitting .
Pull out the bulb holder and change the bulb

Rear light cluster (900 Comb; Coupe)

1 Duectlon 1nd1cator
2 Revel$ing hght
3 Rear light/brake tight
4 Rear fog light (LH or RH sije only)
5 Rear light

SG~?

58

Car care and maintenance

Dome light
Pull down the front of the glass, remove it
and change the bulb.
Cars with sunroof: Pull down the entire
lamp housing at the front to gain access to
the bulb.

Fuses
Side direction indicators

$G1117

Side direction indicators

To change side direction indicators, push
the glass forwards to release the rear end
of the glass and change the bulb. When
fastening the glass, make sure that the
groove in the metal tongue engages the
body sheet.
Number-plate lighting
Remove the lamp glass. Carefully push
back one of the spring contacts to enable
the bulb to be removed .

The fuses are on the power distribution

panel located under the bonnet. on top of
the LH wheel arch. Spare fuses are stored
at the front of the panel. Fuses for the ABS
system are housed on the fuse and relay
panel on the RH side under the bonnet.
There is also a fuse panel on the LH side
underneath the rear seat. The panel is accessible after the seat cushion has been
folded forward. Convertible: The seat
cushion must be removed: grip the front of
the seat and lift it up. Each fuse has a num
ber, marked on the panel. Inside the cover
is a chart showing the circuits protected by
the individual fuses. A list of the fuses is
also given under 'Technical data'.
N.B.Note that the ind ividual fuse numbers shown on the chart inside the cover
do not come Immediately over the fuse
to which they refer.

The fuses are of the plug type and must

therefore be removed for checking. A special tool for this purpose is provided at the
side of the fuses: push the tool onto the fuse
and withdraw it carefully. Examine the fuse
and if the wire is broken the fuse has blown.
When replacing a fuse. make sure that a
fuse of the correct rating (amperage) is
used. The fuses are colour coded according to amperage and the rating is also
marked on each fuse.

Power distribution panel

Car care and maintenance

Sound fuse I Blown fuse

59

SG 39

If the same fuse blows repeatedly, have the

electrical system of the car checked.
Power distribution panel for
ABS system

SGI004

Power distribution panel on LH side

underneath rear seat

SG1122

WARNING
Consult your Saab dealer before adding
any additional wiring as this could cause
damage to Electronic Control Units in the
car.

Removing the seat cush1on (Convertible)

Fuse (25 A) for power supply to pump for

Convertible top

60 Car care and maintenance

Tyre pressures

Wheels and tyres

lyres
The wheels and lyres fitted have been care
fully matched to the designed characteris
tics of the car and make a major contnbu
lion to 1ts outstandilg roadholdng. We
strongly recommend you to consult your
Saab dealer before fitting non-standard
wheels or tyres. as your dealer Wlll nave the
latest information on the types of wheel and
lyre SUitable for your car.

Wear ind1cators

so 840

Tyre markings
To illustrate the meaning of lyre 11arkings.
the size designation t 85/65 R15 87H can
be used as an example
185 = Tyre secton w1dth m millinetres
65

R
15
87

H
Tyre pressure

too low

Tyre pressure

too high

= Aspect rAton i " lhA -.ctnn

heght is 65 % or the section

width
= Radial ply
= Rim diameter 15 mches at bead
seats
= load rating
= Speed mark1ng H = tyre ap
proved up to mSJumum s:>eed of
130 mph (210 kmlh)

The lyre pressures should be checked reg

ularly. Inflate the lyres to the recommended
pressures for the load to be carried and the
normal cruising speed of the car (see Tech
nlcal data lor recommended tyre pres
sures). The recommended pressures apply
to cold lyres. Never reduce the pressure
when the lyres are wan11: il wan11 lyres are
bemg checked, :mly increase the pressure.
Tyres that are incorrectly Inflated Wlll wear
much more quickly and alco greatly reduce
the roadholding capabilitieS of the car.
A leakmg tyre valve can readily be
changed: simpy unscrew the defective
valve and screw in a new one.
N.B. Always re11ember to adjust the tyre
pressures il the usual load or cruising
speed is to be altered substantially.
Wear Indicators
The lyres incorporate wear Indicators, in
the form or smooth, treadless stnps runmng
across the width, which become v1s1ble
when only 1.6 nm of the tread remains.
As soon as the wear lndcator becomes
visible. the lyre should be replaced.
Make sure that you are familiar with the
law regarding the minimum tread thick
ness.

Car care and maintenance

Changing the wheels
The spare wheel, jack, jack handle and tool
kit are stored beneath a panel in the luggage compartment floor. The jack handle
can be removed from the clips securing it
to the spare wheel by squeezing the clips
and pulling the handle up.
To jack up the car, insert the jack in one of
the jacking points underneath the sills (two
on either side). If a trolley jack is used, this
must be applied to one of the reinforced
sections of the underside of the car.

.....
Jack handle

SG857

WARNING
Never crawl under lhe car when It is
supported only by the jack. The jack
should only be used for emergency
wheel changes and not for regular main

Tool tray

tenance repairs.The jack is for emer

gency wheel changing and snow chain
attachment only and not for regular
maintenance repairs.
Do not place any part of your body under the car when supported by the jack
alone.
Particular care must be taken on a hill
or a cambered road surface.
NOTE: Chocks should be used
Place chocks at the front and rear of the
wheel diagonally opposite the one to be
removed.
Hazard lights should be used when
wheel changing at the roadside.
The handbrake should be applied and
the gears placed in '1' or 'R' (Reverse)
on manual gear boxes or 'P' (Park) on
automatic transmissions

61

Never jack the car with people inside.

Do not start the engine when the car is
jacked up.
Ensure the jack is positioned on firm,
level ground, but not on metal gratings
or manhole covers.
The j!!Ck should be stowed in the designed manner and not left loose.
It is very dangerous for users to go underneath a car supported by the jack
whether or not supports are in use.
The supplied jack should only be used
with your Saab car.
1 Apply the handbrake. Insert the jack in
the jacking point and wind the jack
down, checking that the flange at the
top of the jack sits snugly against the sill
Removmg !he hub cap

62

3
4

Car care and maintenance

and that the entire foot os on contact woth
the ground.
Remove the hub cap by carefully prisong 11 olf using a screwdnver. Slacken
the wheel studs by undoing them half a
tum .
Wond the tack up until the wheel is clear
of the ground. Undo the wheel studs
and remove the wheel.
Fit lhe spare wheel leav1ng the wheel
studs slack. Make sure that the wheel
studs are property seated on the wheel.
Lower the car. Tighten the wheel studs
in the sequence shown using the wheel
wrench included in the car too I kit.
Tightening torque: 105 125 Nm N.B.
Never overtighten the studs by using a
percussion nut tightener. as it may not

Correct pos1tJon tor j ack

Vlded and stow 11 securely in a position

where 1t w1ll not be thrown forward of the car
should brake hard.
Have the puncture repaired and the original wheel refitted as soon as possible.
Remember to check the pressure of the
spare wheel at least once a month.

Changing the wheels

round
Tightenmg sequence tor wheel studs

be possible to undo them again using

the car wheel wrench.
6 Check-tighten the studs after a few
miles to the same torque loading: 105
125 Nm.

Compact spare wheel

The lightweight spare wheel is designed for
ease of handling at the roadside when a
wheel needs to be changed because of a
puncture. The spare wheel should only be
used in an emergency and. with the spare
wheel fitted, the car should not be driven
further than 3,500 km nor at a speed exceeding so km/h. The tyre on the spare
wheel should be inflated to a pressure of
420 kPa (4.2 bar). Put the wheel that has
been removed onside the plastic bag pro-

Because the car has front-wheel dnve. the

front tyres will wear faster than the rear
ones. It is therefore a good idea after a few
thousand miles to change the wheels round
so that the lyres will have roughly the same
life. However, the wheels should be fitted
so that they rotate in the same d~reclion: the
left front wheel should swap places w1th the
lef1 rear and the right front wheel w1th the
nght rear wheel.
The wheels and lyres fitted have been care
fully matched to the d1s1gned characteristics
of the car and make a major contnbutoon to
its outstanding roadholdong . We strongly
recommend you to consult your Saab
dealer before fitting non-standard wheels or
tyres. as your dealer woll have the latest in
formation on the types of wheel and lyre
suitable for your car.
Tyres should be kept 1nflated at the recommended pressures and 11 1s partocularty im
portent that lyres on the same axle are at
the same pressure.

Car care and maintenance

Air conditioning (AC)

Maintenance and servicing

Fault diagnosis

The car should be taken to an authonzed

Saab workshop once a yeu for seMcrng
ol the a~r condrllonrng system.

If a malfunctiOn should occur in the arr con

drbonrng system. you can carry out the fol
lowrng checks yourself. If the fault persists
take the car to an authorized Saab work
shop.
Note: When the air-conditioning system rs
running, condensation will form on the
evaporator. When the car is parked, this
condensation may anp on and torm a small
pool of water under the car.

Inadequate cooling capacity

t Check that th~ temperature and a1r drs
tnbution controls are set to the correct
posrtrons
2 Check that t1e condenser (fitted for
ward of the mdrator) has not become
clogged by dr1 and rnsects.
3 Cha<:k that t~s dnve beit for the com
pressor is not slipprng.
4 Check the te11perature of the engine.
The AC compressor will be switched off
automatically by the system if the nee
die on the temperature gauge enters
the red zone.
5 Check the fuses for the fans and com
pressor.

The dnve bell and securing bolts for the

compressor and the electromagnetic
clutch should be checked each trme the
car is grven a regular servce.
The condenser and radiator must be kept
clear of insects and other drrt. When
washing the car. use a hose (not high
prooouro equipment) to 3proy the radia
tor and condenser to flush away any dirt
or foreign bodies. spraying through the
grille at the front of the car and from in
srde the engine bay.
Do not use a hose when the engine Is
hot.
N B Never place a fine-mesh net or an~
other form of screening rn front of the ra
drator as this will drast~ly reduce rts
cooling capacrty.
Durong the winter months when the AC
system is not berng used, it should be run
for between frve and ten mi1utes once or
twrce a month once the car has warmed
up. This is to prevent deterioration of the
gaskets and seals in the compressor
which are lubricated by means of a lubri
cant circulated with the refrigerant.
N.B. Remember that the AC system can
not be run when the outside temperature
IS below 6' C.

63

Seat belts
A check should be made penodrcally to en
sure that the seat belts are working properly. A sharp tug on the strap should cause
the rnertra reel to lack. Check the floor an
chorage por1ts to ensure that they have not
been weakened by corrosion. If the belt rs
worn or has any frayrng edges rt should be
replaced. Belts that were in use when the
car was involved in a severe collision must
be replaced regardless of whether they are
visibly damaged or not. Never carry out any
belt repairs yourself nor attempt to modny
the Junction of the belts.
The belts must not come into contact wrlh
substances such as polishes, oil or chemr
cats. If the straps get dirty, wash them wrlh
soap and warm water or have them re
placed

Upholstery and trim

To remove lluff or strands of hair from the
seat upholstery and headlinrng use a damp.
lint-free cloth or a special fluffremovrng
roller. Dirty marks can be removed by
means of a ~ott cloth and a lukewarm soapy
solution. When using a s tain remover tore
move dirty marks, always work from tte
outside towards the centre to avoid leavrrg
a ring However. it a dirty ring or a spot of
drrt should remain, this can usually be re
moved usrng warm soapy water or water
alOne

64 Car care and m~a~in~te~n~a~n~c~e~----------------------------------------------------Wet patches caused by sp1lt soft dnnk or

purchased from authorised Saab dealers.
Washing the car
thin oH must be wiped off 1mmed1ately us
ing an absorbent matenal. such as kitchen
paper. and treated with sta1n remover.
White spirit is recommended for remov1ng
grease or 011 sta1ns PlaStiC tnm may be
washed w1th warm water and washtng-up
l1quid or the hke. A sem1St1ff brush may also
be used.
Cleaning and caring for leather
upholstery
The reason for dressmg or treat1ng leather
upholstery IS to enhance the natural beauty
of the leather and also to afford 11 a protec
twe coaling Alter a time , leather upholstery
has a natural tendency to become diSCO
loured, whiCh IS partiCularly true of the
lighter shades. Although thiS IS 1n no way
detrimental to the leather (a well-wom pa
tina is often a des~rable leature of leather).
the leather may appear a little shabby. We
therefore recommend that the leather be
cleaned as follows.
The leather upholstery should be cleaned
and reconditioned when the car is tn
spected in the spring and autumn (twice a
year).
Moisten a soft cloth in a mild soap solution.
Carefully apply this damp (not wet) cloth to
the leather with light, circular movements
until the leather is clean. Repeat this pro
cedure using clean water. Let the leather
dry completely. Then apply Saab Leather
Cleaner, a leather conditioner whiCh can be

Apply the leather conditioner with the same

circular movements as described above.
Use a soft cloth. Let the leather conditioner
dry and pol1sh the leather with a soft, dry
cloth Follow the mstructons g1ven above.
Do not use hot water unknown abrasive
polishes solvents. sprays or soaps that
may scratch the leather. This treatment
Wlthh keep the leather upholstery clean and
attractve lor many years.

Textile carpeting
The textile carpet should be vacuum
cleaned regularly The carpet may also be
cleaned usmg a brush or carpet shampoo
apphed w1th a sponge Before us1ng a vac
uum cleaner. make sure that it is property
earthed.

Engine compartment
Clean the engine compartment using an
engine detergent and nnse with hot water.
Cover the headlights and avoid spraying
the air inlet opening, the radiator, throttle
cable and other engine controls (risk of
freezing In cold weather), the alternator and
other electrical components, particularly if
using a highpressure hose. Use paraffin
particularly if using a high-pressure hose.
Use paraffin as a cleaning agent or solvent
when carry1ng out repairs or maintenance
work do not use petrol.

Wash the car frequently When the car is

new, wash the body by hand us1ng cold
water and a brush attachment on the end
of a hose. Dunng the f1rst f1ve or s1x months,
before the pamtwork has hardened prop
erty. avo1d automatic car washes Thereat
ter use a car shampoo added to lukewarm
water
Use a cloth 11101stened 1n whtle spint to remove spots of asphalt or tar Avoid usang
strong cleamng agents as these may dry
out the paantwork.
Tar solvents should not be used to wash the
front and rear light cluster lenses. s1nce
they may cause crack1ng of the lenses
Never use a grease solvent to clean the
rear or front light cluster glass.
The undersade ot the car also needs wash
ing regularly and th1s should be done extra
thoroughly at tha and of w1nter. Clean the
underside of the car thoroughly by hand if
the car Is usually washed in an automatic
car wash without special facilities for under
body cleaning. Never wash the car or allow
it to dry in the sun but wipe It dry with a
leather immediately after washing to avoid
smears and streaks.
Clean the window glass inside and out us
ing a proprietary window cleaner. This is
particularly Important when the car is new,
!IS upholstery <~nd trim may have a slight
tendency to sweat at hrst.

Car care and maintenance

Check that the brakes are working properly
after the car has been washed.
Lower electric aerials by switching off the
radio before entering an automatic car
wash. Fixed aerials must be removed or
lowered manually.
Clean the aerial with a soft cloth and then
lubricate lightly by means of an oily rag.

900 Convertible
Do not run the car through an automatic
car wash as this is liable to damage the
top.
The use of strong or abrasive cleaners or
bleaches may damage the fabric of the
top.
Do not leave the top down for prolonged
periods as mildew may form on the fabric.
Fabric top :Wash using mild soap suds.
lukewarm water and a sponge. Rinse the
top with enough clean water to remove all
traces of soap. You must be careful to rinse
any cleaner off the body paint as it may
cause streaks if allowed to dry on the
painted surfaces.
II further cleaning is required after usmg
soap and water, a mild foaming cleaner can
be used. First, rinse the top. Then use a
mild foaming cleaner on the entire top.
Scrub with a small, soft-bristle handbrush.
Add water as needed unti 1the cleaner gets
soapy, Use a cloth or sponge to remove dirt
so it won't be ground into the top. Be care-

ful to keep any cleaner from drying on the

body paint as it may cause streaks.
Alter the top has been cleaned . rinse the
car with clean water to remove all traces of
cleaner. After cleaning. always be sure the
top is completely dry before it is towered. If
the top is lowered when it is wet or damp,
moisture may damage or stain the interior
or cause mildew to form on the Iabrie of the
top.

Waxing and polishing

A new car should not be waxed before it is
three or four months old. The bodywork will
not need polishing before the paint has ox
idized and become dull. Abrasive polishes
containing a cutting agent should only be
used in exceptional cases on a new car.
Make sure before waxing or polishing the
car that the paintwork has been thoroughly
cleaned before you start.

Touching in the
paintwork
Damaged paintwork should be treated as
soon as it is discovered: the sooner it is
treated the less chance there will be of corrosion setting in. Damage to paintwork af
ter the car has been involved in a collision
is usually extensive and can only be properly restored by approved professionals or

65

a Saab bodyshop. However, chips in the

paintwork caused by stones thrown up from
the road as well as minor scratches you can
deal with yourself. The necessary tools and
materials, such as brushes, touch-in paint
and primer, are available from your Saab
dealer.
In the case o f minor flaws in the paintwork,
where the metal has not been exJ)<)sed and
an undamaged layer of paint remains,
touch in paint can usually be applied direct
after any dirt has been scraped away using
a pointed knife.
If the metal has been exJ)<)sed and corrosion has started, all surface rust must be
scraped off using a pointed knife. If possib le, the entire damaged area should be
taken back to the bare metal. The metal
should then be primed with two thin coats
of primer applied with a brush .
The topcoat enamel should then be applied
in several thin layers until the surface of the
damaged area is level with the surrounding
paintwork.
The primer and touch-in enamel must both
be stirred thoroughly before use. Allow
each coat of enamel to dry before applying
the next coat.

Two-coat e namel
As the name implies, two-coat enamel is
applied in two operations. The first coat, the
base colour. contains the pigment, metal
flakes and binder. The second coat consists of a clear enamel which provides the

66 Car care and maintenance

final gloss for the paintwor1< and protects
the base from moisture and enwonmental
pollutants.
To touch-in paintwork chipped by stones
proceed as follows. Thoroughly clean the
area and then apply the primer, base co
lour and finally the enamel. Te> achieve the
best finish, apply the primer In two or three
coats.

Anti-corrosion
treatment
The underside of the car and insides of the
wheel arches have been trealed with poly
ester and a viscous oil to lmorove aoundprooflng and anti-corrosion properties.
Cavities inside body members and doors
have also been treated with a special pen
etrating w ax to provide additio~al protection
against corrosion.
The anti-corrosion treatment e>n the underside of the car and inside the wheel arches
is particularly exposed to wear and possi
ble damage, the degree of which will obviously depend on driving conditions. Dirt
and, more especially, salt thrown up from
the road can then cause corrosion to s tart
in places where the protection has been
chipped.
It is therefore a good idea to ho:;., th" un
derside of the car frequently and to Inspect
the anti-corrosron treatment as a matter of
course. The fact that the car is covered by

an anti-perforation warranty does not free

the owner from the need to carry out nor
mal maintenance ol the anti-corrosion treat
ment, and to touch It up as necessary.
After the underbody has been hosed c lean
and allowed to dry, apply viscous anticorrosion oil to any worn or damaged areas
using a spray applicator or paintbrush.
It is naturally advisable to continue mainte
nanoe of the anti-corrosion treatment to
avoid corrosiOn later on, even after the antiperforation warranty penod has expired.
Seams in the body and doors are particu
larly vulnerable to the onset of external cor
rosion caused by dirt and road salt and on
the inside by moisture, not least that occurring as a result of condensation. Keep the
seams clean and, at the first sign of corrosion, treat the affected area with a thin anti
corrosion oil by means of a spray applica
tor or brush. If necessary, consu~ your
Saab dealer who will be pleased to advrse

you.

Service Programme
Australia only: This vehicle conforms to the
Australian Exhaust Emission Control
Regulations ADR37 applicable to 1992 new
motor vehicles. ServiCI/1{} of the emission
control system should be carried out by an
authorized Saab dealer.
Every car needs reg;lar servicing and
maintenance If It is to continue to provide

trouble-free motoring. A Service Programme has been drawn up for your car
ana this InCludes specifications of work that
should be carried out at given intervals.
It is to be noted that certain countries use
service programmes which might differ
slightly from the one described in the Service Book.
The Warranty Conditions specify that the
prescribed services and oil changes must
be carried out at the stated intervals by an
authorized Saat workshop.
To ensure that your car is properly serviced
and to keep servicing costs to a minimum,
the Saab Original Service Programme in
clu<les preventi,e maintenance to avert
possible malfunctions, to ensure that the
high level of salety Inherent In the car is
maintained and that the car complies with
the relevant exhaust emission regulations.
Have your Service Book with you when you
hand over your car for a service and when
collecting your car make sure that all of the
items specified in the programme have
been carried o~t and that the Book has
been stamped in the correct place. A valid,
stamped Book is not only an assurance of
reliability and me>toring economy but also
adds to the trade-in or second hand value
of the car.
The scope and content of the Service Programme may be changed from time to time
but your authorized Saab wor1<shop will aJ.
ways have up-to-dale detarls of any
changes aftecting your car.

Car care and maintenance

Fault diagnosis
N.B. If the car has to be left at the side of
the road (e.g. because of engine trouble,
flat tyre or having been involved in a colli
sion), unless it is in a built-up area, the hazard warning lights should always be
switched on to give approaching traffic
plenty of warning.
Remember to check that all fuses are intact
before the fault diagnosis.

Fuel-Injection engines
Starter motor operates normally
but engine fails to start
1 Check that there is fuel in the tank and
that the charging warning light shows
when the ignition is switched on.
2 Unscrew one of the spark plugs. Real
tach the HT lead to the plug, earth the
plug by placing it on a metal part of the
engine, let go of the HT lead and briefly
run the starter motor. If the ignition system is working properly, a strong spark
should be visible.

N.B.
Never disconnect an HT lead when the
engine is running as this may cause flashover in the ignition system . Similarly,
never attempt to start the engine with the
distributor cap removed.

3 If there is no spark or only a very weak

spark check that the HT leads are
pushed fully home in the distributor cap
and ignition coil. Also check the LT connections at the coil.
4 Remove the distributor cap and wipe
dry any moisture. Check that there are
no cracks in the cap.

If the engine still fails to start

check the fuel system.
1 Check that the engine oil filler cap has
been screwed down tightly.
2 Check the fuse for the electric fuel
pump (fuse No. 30).
3 Ask a helper to check that the fuel pump
is operating. The fuel pump can normally be heard running by listening in
the luggage compartment. The pump
should be running when the starter motor is turning over.
4 Check that the electrical leads are mak
ing good contact with the fuel pump ter
minals (accessible through the panel in
the luggage compartment floor).
5 Check that all fuel line connections are
sound.

67

The engine misfires, has lost

power or runs erratically. Check
the following:
t If an HT lead is loose.
2 If a spark plug is defective or the gap is
not set correctly.
3 If there is flashover or arcing in the ig
nition system.
4 If the low-tension connections on the
ignition coil are making poor contact.
5 That the engine oil filler cap has been
screwed down tightly.

The ignition comes on but the

charging warning light fails to
show. This may be due to one of
the following causes:
1 The battery is flat or a battery lead has
become detached.
2 The fuse for the charging warning light
has blown.
3 One of the leads is making poor contact
at the ignition switch or charging warn
ing light.
4 The charging warning light has blown.

68 Car care and maintenance

The charging warning light comes
on while the car is being driven
1 Chad< to see rf the a"emator drive belt
has broken or rs slipping.
2 The voltage regulator or a"ernator is
defective.

Battery flat. Possible reasons:

1 A current consumer has been left on .
2 Electrolyte level too low.
3 Frequent use of high-drain equipment,
e.g. auxiliary cabin heater, in combina
tion with short journeys.
4 Defective voltage regulator or altema
tor.

Accessories
An attractrve range of accessories de
srgned specrally for your car are available
and these rnclude roof-racks, ski racks.
towing attachments for trailers or caravans,
in-car entertarnment equipment, etc.
Further details of these and other accesso
ries are contained in a leaflet available from
your Saab dealer.

Motoring abroad

Saab European Service Guide

Saab has published a booklet, saab European Service Gurde contarnrng useful ad
vice and rnformation on motoring abroad
and a list of Saab seMce facrlities in Eu
rope. Contact your Saab dealer.
Form and Funcbon

Additional literature on
the car
If you would like to frnd out more about the
design of the car and how the different sys
tems operate, a book entitled 'Form and
Function' Is available from your Saab
dealer.

......

Technical data

Technical data

General . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmi ssion . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical system . . . . . . . .
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacement bulbs . . . . . . . .

70
71
73
74
74
76

Suspension . . . . . .
Brakes . . . . . . . . . .
Steering . . . . . . . . .
Rims and tyres . . . . .
Car identifica tion . . .

.
.
.
.
.

69

. . . . .
.....
. . . . .
. . . .
. . . . .

76
76
77
77
79

70 Technical data

General
Overall length
Overall width
Overall height (at kerb weight)
Max. height (when the convertible top Is
operated)
Ground clearance (car carrying
2 adults + 30 kg of luggage)
Treck be!Ween front wheels
(S I I2J X 15 H2 rims. steel)
Track between front wheels
(S 112J x 15 H2 rims, at)
Track between front wheels
(6 1/2J x 15 H2 rims, al)
Track between rear wheels
(5 1/2J x 15H2 rims. steel)
Track between reat wheels
(5 1/2J x 15 H2 rims, al)
Treck between rear wheels
(6 112J x 15 H2 rims. al)
Wheelbase
Turning corcle
Kerb weight (with driver weighing
70 kg)
Maximum weight fully laden
Combl Coupe and Sedan
Convertible

4680 mm, 4687 mm

16901695 mm
1400 1420 mm
2250 mm
13Smm

Weoght diStributiOn:
Kerb weoght, fronVrear
Maximum weoght, lronvrear
Number of seats including driver's
Combl Coupe and Sedan
Convertible
Fuel tank capac.ty
Fuel
cars W1tl1 cata1ytJc converter
cars without catalytiC converter

1432 mm
1430 mm

Washer fluid reservOir

Volume of luggage oompartment (SAE):

60140%
50150%
5
4
68 ltrs.
leedfree fuel only
leadfree fuel or
leaded
fuel
4.7 llrS (8.1 ponts)

1456 mm
1442 mm
1440 mm
1466 mm
2517 mm
11.2 m
1260. 1490 kg
1830 kg
1780 kg

Combi Coupe, parcel shelf fitted

Sedan
Parcel shelf removed, Combi Coupe
ConvertJble
Maximum load capaCity In
luggage compartment
At kerb weoght
wijh 4 13 passengers having
combined weight of 280/210 kg
(Combl Coupe and Sedan/ Conv.)
For each person fewer on the rear
seat the luggage compartment load
may be 1ncreased by

0.421 m3
0.408 m
0.540 m3
0.302 m3

80 kg

30 kg

Technical data
MaJumum load capaCity
of exteooad luggage compartment
(except Coov .)
\'otume of luggage compartment with
rear seat folded
twO-Ooor and tour.Ooor models
threedoor and f1ve.Ooor models
length of luggage compartment with
rear seat folded:
twodoor end lourdoor models
lhreedoor and five-door models
Maximum roof-rack load (except Conv.)
Maximum load capacity on a load
carrier (Conv.)
Maximum petm1ssible trailer weight:
Tr&Jter w1th brakes
Traoter wothout brakes

220 kg

1.5 m
1.6 m

1755 mm
1835 mm
100 kg
30 kg
tSOO kg
750kg

Engine

10.1:1
9.0:1
90 mm
93mm
78mm
78mm
1985 cm3
2119 cm3
4.0 ltrs.

3.7 llrs.
10 firs.
88'C

Cars with catalytic emission

control system

General
Type

Compression ratiO:
900i 16
900 TU!bo 16
Cytnder bore
2.0 I engone
2.121 engone
Stroke
2.0 I engone
2.121 engine
Swapt volume
2.0 I engine
2.12 I engine
Oil capacity onclud~ng that in oil
filler (oil change volumes) :
Oil capacity excludong 011 filter (oil
change
volumes):
Coolant capaCity
Opening temperature ol thermOStat

71

4-cyllnder, 4stroke
twin overhead
camshaft engine

Fuel-injection engme. (2.0 I)

'lating (DIN)
Torque (DIN)
Idling speed

94 kW (1 28 hp)
at 6000 r/min
173 Nm (17.6 kglm) at
3000 r/min
800-900 r/mm

72 Technical data
Fuel-tri/(ICbOn engine. (2. I 2 I)
Rallng (DIN)
Torque (DIN)

TO<que (DIN)
103 kW (140 hp)
at 6000 r/min
180 Nm (18.3 kgfm) at

2900 r/min
Idling spoeed

81J0.900 r/m1n

Turbo 16 fuelllljectjon eng1ne, (2.0 I)

RaWlg (DIN)

118 kW (160 hpJ

at 55(X)

Torque (DIN)
Idling speed

rrmm

255 Nm (26.0 kglm) at

2800 r/mlll
800900 r/mln

Cars without catalytic emission

control system
FIHillllf9CbOn eng1119. (2.0 I)

Rabng (DIN)

98 kW (133 hp) at
6000 r/mln

Torque {DIN)
Idling speed

173 Nm (17.6 kgfm) at

3000 r/min
8()().900 r/mtn

Turbo I 6 luelmJ8Ciion engine (2. 0 I)

Ratlllg (DIN)

129 kW (175 hp)

at 5500 '''"'"

273 Nm (27.8 kgfm) at

2800 r/1TW1

Idling sped

Engine oil
Grade of oil
Turbo eng1nes:
Saab Turbo engone odor otlto API SG.
SF/CO or Sf!CC.
Other enginoes API SG. SF/CO or
SFICC
Sooce Saab Turbo eng1ne otl and oils to
API SG and SF contain suitable
additives for engines and gearboxes we
recommend against the use of
additional addillves.
Viscosity
SAE 10W/30, 10W/40, SW/30 or SW/40.
If 111ese vtSCO$ltoes are unobtainable,
tSW/40 011 may be used When using
the ear regularlY 1n temperatures below
20"C, oi l woth a VISCOSity of SW/30
must be used.
When using SWolls. they have to be of
the fully or semisynthetic type.

800-900 r/mon

Technical data

Automatic gearbox

Manual gearbox
Type

Geartlo)( 011 (for topp1ng up)

0 11capaCity
Hydraulic clutch type

Frve-speed all- synchrom&Sh W1th 1ntegraf

hnal dnve and
dfferental
Eng1ne 011 (m1neral 01l)
to API SG or API SF
SAE 10W130 or
10W/40,
or SAE EP75 API-GL4
or API-GLS
3.0 ltrs
Single dry-plateclutch
of d1aphregm-spnng

Type

Three-speed gearbox

Selector lever positions

Oil capac.ty
Grade of oil

With ~ntegral
torque corrverter. l!l'lal
dnve and dtferenl!a
PRND21
8.0 ltrs.
Au1omauc

transmsston
lluid to Ford M2C.33F
G

Oil capacty in hnaf dnve uOII

Grade of 011

type

Road speed. kmlh at tOOO mnon

1Stspeed gear
2ndspeed gear
3rdSpeed gear
4th-speed gear
Sthspeed gear
Reverse

73

9001 16

900 T16

13

t4
21 -22

20

28
35

30
37
7

Road speed. (km1'1) at 1000 rpm.

1st-speed gear
2nd-speed gear

Drive gear
Reverse gear

1.4 IIJS.
EP 011 SAE BOW or 75
API GL4 or API GLS

74

Technical data

Electrical system
Vollagt~

B11~sry

2_

caDBICicy (nega e earth

SU!
AJ~

~~tlo

ing

62M
'.4 kW

...

70 A.' 14V or
80 ,.,. , .. v

Power dismburit:m oa11eJ

Vee bells

9.7

on LH SJde undemaa rh

Ff m;, order (na. cylinder

a1 roar crf er.q
I

1-3-4-2

lt

971 mm

rMr' SS.:t

SCJ_al k plUg$;

goo, 16

NGK BCP SEV

9(:(} Turoo 16

NGK BCP-7EV

Elect oo ~.;.F>

0 6- 0.1 mm

FUSIP].. fKJwer distribution parret

Clrcwre DllJieGloo
~wef d.sm'tlutlon
rnbda se sor
Spare

f~btY:) .ty!ltem

4
5

s~

Fuse no.

w~~n
se.gU;~Q~J"

.,

An:wera_up
~

rs

wipers: ~d.,9flt wlps:

wsmmg

.Ygh~

AC Sjt.'Uem
OifO,Cfl"r)n indic.tt~; r~L' ~f;
CHECK ew:1J/'4'E, d1argll'1_9 wsm:ng Jig 'k;

GV.J

tO

preSSJ..re wsmJ.og ''9fll

,5
3D

,5

75

Technical data
t=use no.
8

10
11

12
13
14
15
16

17

18
19
20

21
22

23

24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31

Circuits erotected
Headlight wipers; door mirrors and
cruise control system
HeaUng and ventilation fan
APC system; headlight beam-length
adjustment
Spare
Spare
Reversing lights; cigar lighter
Main beam, RH
Main beam, LH; main /Jeam indicator tight
Dipped beam, RH
Dipped /Jeam, LH
RH parking lights; RH tail lights;
lighting for number plate
LH parking lights; LH tail lights
Spare
Rear fog light
Fuel system; fuel gauge;
temperature gauge; warning lights for
handbrake;
brake system: ABS; fuel waming light
Instrument illumination; light for glove
compartment
Spare
Radiator fan
Hom
Hazard warning lights
Clock
Spare
Fuel pump
Stop lights

Ameera9.e

10
30
10

Fuse no.

1
2
3
A
B

20

15
15

15
15

1
2

3
4

10
10
15

5
6
7
8
9
10

10
10
30
25
15
10
20

15

Circuits protected
ABS fuse_pa!!!f
ABS
ABS
Pump and control unit
System relay
Pump relay
Power distribution f!!!.nel on LH side
underneath rear seat
ConvBrtible top
Seat heating; interior lighting
Rear-window heater: heated door mirrors
Central locking; interior lighting;
luggage compartment light
Radio
Aerial

Front windows
Rear-door windows: sunroof
LH seat adjustment
RH seat adjustment

) 900 Convertible = 15 A.

Amf!!!.ra9.e

30
30

10

20
20
20
10-

20
20

30
30
30
30

"16

Technical data

Replacement bulbs

Suspension
~ l .!W

W2 x 4.(;d @

r11w n ina.tial for switches, heatingtveri-

tila tion oontroJs, d g;tr liW'lter, ashtray

a nd

Heodligfn 60155W

Gn21W

H4 holder
P43 <38

1gnmon swttd t

@ ~bulbaml
~bulb holder unit

Spring type, front and rear

Coil springs

Maximum deHection of springs:

Front
Rear

180 mm
170 mm

Dampers, type

Hydrau ic , telescopic

Maxim um stroke when fitted :

Front

96mm

Rear

15a mm

llA 15s

Rear direction indicators, fi'orH direc-

tion indicators, s top light$, rt"VtTSmg 1.2 W: Wamingtindicator li;t;hts for oil
pressure, brak~s. direction indicators,
lights a nd n-ar fog lighcs
h(>ated rear window. m11in !)(>am, hand-

Brakes
Type

~--------------1 broke ond fuel re"'" "

Gn21t5W

with vacuum servo

unit:
d iagonally spirt
circurts,
(ABS :tripleci rcu it);

2.0 W: Charging warning Jigflt

BAY ! Sd

Stop lightstttlil Ughts

GI:J sw

ventilated discs on front

@
llA

1 5~

Tailliglns, parking lights

<J:r--fll>

Hydraulic disc brakes

SV85-IJ
5 W: Rear view mirror light, n umber

pla te ilJwninarlo n and glove rompartmcnt light

l OW: Jilllt" light and lugg."'Se com JXIM
m e nt lighr

wz. 4 .6d

c:::J:> 2 w

Seat belt woming light

l:i}

W2.l x9.5d
.
. .

3 \\': hl~trwuent dh.ullltlt\llOrl

5W: Side direction indica ron;, rcarcouttes>: lights, tConv.)~ h igh-mounted bra~
ke hglll (Conv.)

wh~l~

Hand brake

Mecharlcal. acting on
rear wheels

Brake fluid

To DOT 4

Outside di<meter o f discs:

Front
Rear

280 mm
258 mm

Technical data
Brake pads
Total area of fncbon matena:
Front
Rear

140 ern
72 om~

Steering
Steenng system

Aackand-plnlon type
with telescopic
universally jo1nted
steeringcolumn shaN

Number of tums lock-tolock:

Power steering fluid

3.7

Fluid C8P&City

Texaco 4634 power

steenng fluid
0.75 ltrs

Rims and tyres

A1m SIZeS
900i 16, 900 Turbo 16
9001 16, 900 Turbo 16
(some models)
Spare wheel
Spare wheel (ME-markets)
Tyre sizes:
9001 16. 900 Turbo 16
900 Turbo 16 S
Spare wheel
Spare wheel (ME-markets)

5 112 J x 15 H2 (s'eel)
5 112 J X 15 H2
(aluminium alloy)
4 J HI x 15 (steel)
5 112 J x 15" (steel)
185165 AISH
195160 VA 15
T 115/70 A 15
175170 A15T

Front wheel aJognment

(not 900 Turbo 165)
Toe-in, measured between nms
Camber

Caster:
Front wheel alignment
(only 900 Turbo 16St:
Toe-in, measured between rims
Camber
Caster

2 1 111111
-114' 112'

+2'

:!: 12'

1.5 0.5 mm
+ 1/4 114"
+2" 1/4

Recommended tyre pressures

for cold tyres, bar
Front
185/65 At5H:
1-3 occupants and max1mum
cruising speed of 160 kmlh
Heavier loads and max1mum
cruising speed or 160 kmlh
Heavier loads and max1mum
cruising speed ol 21 0 kmlh
195160 VAtS:
t.J occupants and maximum
cruising spaed of 160 km/h
Heavier loads and maximum
cruising speed of 160 kmlh
Heavier loads and
cruising speed lf:IJ Krl\lll

) 900 Convertible 1-2 occupants

Rear

2.'

22

2.3

2.4

2.5

26

2.'

2.2

2.3

2.4

2.5

2.6

78 Technical data
Spare wheel
Pressure (T115170 R15)
Pressure ( 175170 R1ST)
Max,mum mileage
Max1mum speed

4.2 bar (kg/em')

2.5 bar (kg/em")

3,500 km
80 krnlh

Tool kit
Jack with jack handle
Tool kit (stowed under panel in luggage compartment floor)

Technical data

Car identification

To identify the precise model of your car, it

will help the Saab dealer if you quote the
chassis number, engine number or gearbox
number.
Australia only: The chassis number plate in
the engine compartment also includes
building year and month (above chassis
no).

Key

Modification identity plate

f_ ________

Gearbox number (automatic)

Gearbox number (manual)

IQWCU.~ 19$

nt"eo..ouP 1'30

YS 3AG4 3 s l S 10000::2:::6~~..,
(:11

+<t-

Body and trim colour plate

Engine number

Chassis number on rear

cross-member (under panel
in luggage compartment floor)

79

80

Index

Index
Aes ..........................................

b, 41 ,

/ij

Accessories.......... ............ ............ .. ..... ....

Air cleaner................................................
Air conditioning ............................ ...........
Air conditioning, fault diagnosis ... ...........
Air pressure, tyres........................ .... 60,
Air supply control ......................... ...........
Alternator...................................... ..... .....
A~emator, dnve belt tens1011........ ...........
Anti-<:Orroslon treatment............... ...........
Antofreeze, mncture...................... ...........
Antoskld devices......................................
Ashtrays .................................... ..............
Automatic transmission, driving ...............
Automatic transmission, Huid ............ 51,

68
48
11
S3
77
10
53
53
66
49
43
19
39
73

B attery ....................................................
Body maintenance ..................................
Bonnet.....................................................
Brake ftuid, container ..............................
Brake fluid, grade....................................
Brake fluid, topping up............................
Braking.....................................................

53
64
32
52
76
52
41

C aravan, driving with.............................. 44

Cargo space...................................... 3 t, 70

Changong wi\Mis .....................................

Changong Wljl8f blades ............................
Child safety .... .........................................
Cigar lighter.............................................
Cigarette light
.................................
Cleaning. ......................... .........................
Clock ... ... .............. ........ .............. ..............
Colour code. location of...........................
Combination Instrument...........................
Combination lamp ........................ ............
Controls.. ..................................................
Convertible top. ciea111ng ........................
Converuble top. operation........................
Coolant tempe<ature gauge.....................
Coolong system, antofreeze mixture ........
Cooling system, bleeding.........................
Cooling system, coolant change..............
Cooling system, topping up .....................
D amaged palrtworl< ..............................
Defrosting........ ................... .....................
Otmen&Ons and weights..........................
Dimmer swotch .. .......................................
Otpsbc:k, engone.... ....................................
Dipstick, transmission ..............................
Direction indicaiO<S ..................................
Doors.......................................................
Drain CCXI<, coolant ..................................
Drain plug, engine....................................
Drain plug, gearbox.................................
Driving econor!T)' ............ ................ ...... ....

6t
54
30
19
1g
64
5
79
4
56
6
65
21
4
49
50
50
49
65
10
70
7
49
51
7
30
50
49
51
42

CIU"petc, cle.aning ....... .............................. 64

Orivlno In hnt

Catch, rear
Central loolclng ...................................... ...
Cllangong bulbs..................................
Changong ooolant .......................... ..........

Driving on slippery roads ......................... 43

Drivong woth a loed-canier
(900 Converuble) .... ................................ ~
Driving with a rootload ............................. 45

door.......................................

30
30
56
50

Ami'M~tnt

temperatures ....... 44

OrMng with a trailer/caravan .................. 44

Orivong with an open
luggage compartment
45
Driving with spare wheel fitted................. 45

door......................

E lectrically operated window regulators.

Engine compartment, cleaning................
Engine, description ................ .................
Engine number, location of......................
Engine oil......................................... 48,
Engine oil, capacity................ .................
Engine oil, change ................. .................
Engine oil, check.................... .................
Expansion tank, coolant..........................
Extra equipment .......................................

20
64
48
79
72
71
48
48
49
68

Fau" diagnosis........................................

67
41
10
14
77
43
70
4
71
74

Foolbrake ...................................... ...........

Fr8$h air vents.........................................
Front seat.................................................
Front wheel alignment .............................
Frozen loc:lcs............................................

Fuel .........................................................

Fuel gauge.............................................
Fuel injection engine...............................
Fuses ................................................ 58,

G arage jack ............................................ 61

Gear change speeds ................. ..... ......... 39
Gear changing and selection ................... 39
Gear lever kx:::k.. ..... ...... .... ... .. ........ ......... .. 36

Gear positions, automatiC trangmission...

Gear positions, manual tranmOSSJon ........
Gear (selector) lever ..... ........ ................
Glove compartment................. ................

39
39
39
33

Index

Handbrake ... ..... .. ...... .. .. ... .. ... ... .. ... .. ........

Hazard warning swach.... ..... .................. ..
Headlight atignmem ...... ..... ......................
Headlight beam-length adjustmert... ..... ..
Headllgnts, changing bulb ..................... ..
Headlights, dimmer and flasher switch....
Headlights. wipers and washers .... ..... .....
Heating and ventilation controls ..............
High-mounted stop light......................... ..
Hints....... ........ ... ..... .......... ..... .......... ... ..... .

Ignition key ... ........ ..... ..............................

Ignition setting ..... ..... ..... ...........................
Ignition switch and gear lever loc< .... ......
Indicator lights ..... ..... ..... ..... ........ ............. .
Injection engine... .................................... .
Instrument illumination ..... ..... ..... ..... ........ .
Instrument panel ......... .......... ..... ... ..... ..... .
Instruments .... ... ..... ..... ... ....... ... ..... ...........
Interior illumination........... ..... ... ..... ..... ......
Interior light bulbs .............. ..................... .

5
8
55
7
bti
6
54
10
57
65

36
74
36
4
71
7
4

5
8
58

J ack... ..... ... ........ ..... ..... ..... ..... ... ....... ... .... 61

K eys. .................. ..... ........ ..... ..... ............. . 30

~ickdown.... .. ...... .... . ................. . .... ... ..... . . 40

Luggage companment door..................... 31

M aintenance ~rogramme ...... ........... ......
Manual transrrission ......... ... ..... ...... .. .......
Mirrors ......... ........... ...... ... ................ ..... ... .
Motonng abroad ........... ..... .............. .........

66
39

18
68

N umberplate light .................................. 58

O dometer..... ........ ... ...................... ..........

Oil changing, engine ................................
Oil dipstick................................................
Oil fitter ..... ................. ...................... .........
Oil pressure..............................................
Oils................................. ...... ........... . 72,

Paintwork ... ..... ...... ........ ... ... ..... ... ... .. ... ... .
Parcel shell.... ..... ........... .............. ...........
Parking light ... ..... ........... ... ... ... ... .. ...... .. ...
Polishing .... ...... ..... ... ... ........... ........ ... ......
Power distribution panel ......... ........ ........ .
Power steering ........ ... ........ ... ........ .... 52,
Pressure gauge............................. ... ........

4
48
49
49
4
73
65
32
6
65
58
77
6

Ouick charge, battery ..... ... ........ ........ ..... 53

L ight bulbs.............. ................................ 76

Rear fog lights ..... ........... ........... ........ ... ..

Jghts... ..... ..... ............. ..... ............... ... ..... .. GO

Rear lights...... ........... ... ........... ................

lights bulbs..............................................
Load capacity ...........................................
Locks... ............................... ..... ............. ....
Luggage compartment.............................

57
31

Rear seat .. ... .. ... ... .. ........ ... ... ........ ...... .. ...
Rear window heating . ... .. ........... ... ...... .. ... 9
Repairs to pairtwork .......... ... ........ ........ ... 65
Reverse gear catch.... ... ........... ................ 39

56
70
30
31

81

Reversing light .. ..... ........ ............... ..... ... .. 7

Roofrack......... ........ ................................. 45
Running in .... ..... .. ............. ..... ................... 38
Seat !letts... ..... .......... ..... ..... ....................
Seat belts, cleaning ................ ..... ..... .......
Seats ... ..... ............ ..... ..... ... .................... ...
Servicing .... ..... .................... ..... ................
Shock absorbers......... ... ............... ...........
Slippery roads, driving on.. .......... ............
Snow lyres, chains, links .......... ...............
Spare wheel .............. ... .. ..... ..... .. ... ... . 45.
Spark plugs ................................... .... 54,
Speedometer and odometer .... ..... ...........
Start assistance ...... ................. ................
Starting ............. ..... .......... .......... ..... ..........
Steering....... ..... .......... ..... ..... ............. .......
Steering characteristics............................
Studded lyres.............................. .............
Sunroof...... ............ ..... ............. ..... ..... .......
Suspension ...... ..... .. ........ .. .......... ..... ........
Switches. ..... .................... ..... ..... ..... ..........

63
14
66
76
43
43
62
74
4
45
36
52
42
43
20
76
6

Tachometer.............. .......... .....................

Technical data............ ............... ...............
Temperature control.................. ...............
Temperature gauge, coolant....................
Towing................. .......... ..... ..... ..... ..... .......
Towing attachment...................................
Towinglugs ...... ..... .............................. .....
Towing the car . .. ..... .. ........ ... ..... .. .............

5
69
10
6
44
44
46
46

1!>

Trailer, driving with.. ..... ... ............ ............. 44

Trailer weight .................................... 44,

Transmission number, locatio1 of............
Transmission oil.......................................
Transmission oil, capacity.... ....... .............

71
79
73
73

82

Index

Transmission ool, capacty ......................

Transmission ool, checl<tng........... ...........
Tnp meter......
.....................................
Trouble sho011ng. AC .... .........................
Trouble shoOhng. engtne ............ ........ ...
Tutbo engtne ........ ... . ........ .................
Tutbo 1nstrumen1......... ............... ............
Turntng circle ............................... ............
Tyres ................................................. 60,

73
50

-4
63
67
71
6
70

U pholstery................ ............................... 63

Venhlslion end heeling controls.............

10
Ventilalor fan ............................................ 1o
VertiCal adtuslmenl. driver's seal ............ 14

W aming and lndiCalor IJQhts ..................

Warning SIQn&l. hazard swilch ................
Washer flut<L....
........................
Washers ........... .................................
Washers spray nozzles............................
Weshtng ..................................................
Wax1ng ....... ....... ..................................
Wear indiCalors ... .....................................
Wetghls and dtmensions.............. ............
Wheels and lyres.... ............. ....................
Wheels and lyres, changtng ....................
Wheels and lyres, rolsllon.......................
Wondshoeld washer and woper switch.......
Wtndshield washers .................................
Wtndshoeld wipers....................................
Winter drovong .... ..... .. ............................

Wontor lyres ...

Wipers

4
8
55
55
55
64
65
60
70
77
61
62
9
55
54
43

... ......................... ........... 43

. . . ... . ................ ........... 54

AU

1992

VEHICLE EMISSION CONTROL INFORMATION

M ANUFACTJJAEA:
SAAB AU TO MOBILE A8

M ODEL:
SAA8 900 116 2.1

ElrllGINE SIZE:
2120 CM3

ENGINE FAMILY:

MSA2.31/SFNAS
NATURAL.LY A SPIRATED

SWEDEN

EXHAUST EMISSION CONTROl SYSTEM: ELECTRON IC FUEL INJECTtON, CLOSED LOOP SYSTEM WITH TH REE WAY CATALYST.
NO ADJUSTMENTS NEEDED.
0.7 MM.

$PAAK PLUG GAP: 0.$

FUEL SP-EC.
91 RON

THIS VEHICLE CON FORMS TO THE AUSTRAliAN EXHAUST EMISSION CONTROL

REGULATIONS ADA 37 APPLICABLE TO 1992 NEW M OTO R VEHICLES.

S AAB
~'"Au

1992

41 61 626

VEHICLE EMISSION CONTROL INFORMATION

M ANUFA CTI:JREA:

SAA8 AU TOMOBILE
SWEDEN

MODEL:
SAAB 900 T16

ENGINE FAMILY:
JSA 2,0 VSFTB3

TURBOCHAROEO

ENGINE SIZE:
1985 CM3

EXHAUST EM ISSION CONTROL SYSTEM : ELECTRONIC FUEl I NJECTION, ClOSED LOOP SYSTEM WITH THREE WAY CATALYST,
IGNITION TIMING: 16

1 BTDC loT liSO RPM (DISTRIBUTOR VACUUM LINE DISCONNECl EO AND PLUGGEO.

HO OTHER AD JUSTMENT NEEOEO.

~PA RK PLUG O AP! 0,4; -

0.7 MM.

FUEL SPEC.
91 RON

WITH l UNING KIT 95 RON

THIS VEHIClE CONFORMS TO THE AUSTRA LIAN EXHAUST EMISSION CONTROL
REGUlATIONS ADR 37 APPLICABLE TO 1992 HEW M OTOR VEHICLE.$.

SA.-B

41 61 634

sure and any vapour before removing the cap

completely.

Fuel
It IS recommended tnat 98
octane fuel be used but rue
down to a minimum octane
rating of 91 may also be
used.
Fuel tank capacity:
68 ltrs.
Do not fill petrol to the top,
the petrol must have expanSIOn space.

4 Engine oil
Use engine oil SAE
1OW/30, 1OW/40, SW/30 or
SW/40.

5 Gearbox oil
(automatic
gearbox)

Use automatic transmission

Lead-free fuel

fluid Ford M2C.33G

All cars may be run on lead

free fuel having a minimum
octane rating of 91 (RON).

All cars with catalytic

emlss,l on control system:
unleaded, 91 (RON) min.
When refuelling, insert the
pump nozzle beyond the
flange on the filler pipe, reSting the first nozzle ring,
lug or spring tum against
the flange. Do not move the
nozzle during filling.

6 Battery
7 Washer fluid

1 Power steering
Use Texaco Power Steering
Fluid 4634.

2 Brake/clutch fluid
Use brake fluid DOT 4.

5
3 Coolant

Do not allow the coolant level

to fall below the MIN mark on
the expansion tank. Use Saab
brand coolant.
Always undo the filler cap
carefully, releasing the pres-

J
j

'

'

..

..
~

Saab Automobi:e AB
Tro llhattan, Sweden

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e
0