Saab 900

Owner's Manual M 1992

.SP.AB

Main instrument display panel

Switch for sd1ustment of OOOI

mlfrors (certain variants)

Swildl f<x par1c1t1g ltghts and headlights

Fan switch

Air temperature contro

Driv,,,s seat hfftllf rlMJostat (some

moa.Js)IHead/tght beamlength
adjustment

Air dislribubon contro/

Switch for adjustment of door

mirrors (certain variants)

Hazard wammg lights

Roar fog lights (certain markets)

Dir9Cllon Indicators, main/dipped

bffm, main beam flasher

Rear-window
hea/jng

AC switches
(some models)

Hom buttoos

Switch for sun roof

(option)lswiteh for
convertible top

Inlet/or lighting switch

Ignition switch

Gear fever

Handl>rake

Switches for e/Bctric

""1dows (certain variants)

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 AB 199 1

TechnicaJ Publications, Saab Automobile AB T rollhattan, Sweden

Printed by: V3stergot111nds Tryc:kri A8, Skara

3
13
29
35
47
69
80

This manual for the Saab 900 provides

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 a 16-valve engine naturally aspirated and 900 Turbo 16 .. 16-valve engine
with turbo charger.
Read through the manual before taking the

car out for the first time and then keep it on

the car for future reference.
The manual is divided into a number of
sections and there is also a comprehensive
index at the back .
Supplied with the car are a Service Book
and important information about warranly
cond1hons.
Since the policy at Saab Automobile Is one

of continual improvement. we retain the

right to incorporate modifications and alter
speci fications during production without
prior notice.
Best wishes
Saab Automobile AB

The radio shOwn 11\ $0Ml'I 01the photograps 1n this boQl(...t

is not indudad as stt1nda1d aquiPf'OOOl tor the car

Instruments and controls

Instruments
and controls
Instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . 4
Indicator and warning lights . .. 4
Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Switches . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 6
Heating and ventilation system . 1O

Indicator and warning

lights

Instrument panel
Cars wrth antrlock brakrng system

Some of the waming lights come on as the

ignition is swllched on. These lights should
all be extinguished as soon as the engine
has been started.

Australra only
3

D.

"n
)

2
1
'
.
0

120 140
I I
, ,160
::;o<::OS2 '/180

100
80' '
-,

."

-'

//

40:.--/ - "

:;;.

/ -

20

'

"'~'"'

/'

:200

,..::-.-....

60-

'

-220

8 1!

'
'240

.....
,.

'

-~
~

"

'
Main instrument display panel
1 Rev counter and clock
2 tndicator/warn1ng tights
3 Direction lnd1Cator repeater light
4 Speedometer m1lometer and trip meter

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.

Indicator light for rearwi ndow heating

This light will show when the rear-window

heating is switched on.

i'. I "

',..,.,

'

5
6
7
8
9

Fuel injection system

warning light

Pressure gauge
Temperature gauge
Fuel gauge
Dimmer switch, instrument illumination
Tnp meter reset knob
1o Clod< reset knob

011 pressure warning

light
This light will come on if the engine oil pres
sure 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 llght
This hght will come on if the battery is not
being charged. If rt comes on while 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

Main beam indicator light

This fight will show when the main beam 1s

on.

Rear fog lamp indicator

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

Handbrake warni ng light

This light will show when the handbrake is
applied.

ABS warning light

(option)

This light indicates that the ABS system is

inoperative. Conventional braking is still
available but have the ABS system

checked by an authorized Saab dealer

without delay.

Brake warning light

The brake warning light will come on 11 the
brake fluid level falls too low. If the fight
comes on while you are driving. stop the car
immediately and check the level of brake
fluid in the reservoir. On cars with ABS
brakes, the light will also come on in com
bmatron with the ANTI LOCK warning fight
if there 1s a drop m 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 assistance is lost, braking effect
is greatly reduced. together with a big increase in required pressure on the brake
pedal, and the car should only be dnven
if absolutely necessary.
Have the car checked and corrected immediately by an authorized Saab dealer.

Fuel gauge (FUEL)

Fuel warning light

This light wrll show when less than about 7
litres (1 5 imp. gal) of fuel remains in the

tank. 16 valve engine: If the fuel tank has

run dry at least 5 htres of fuel (just ove_r a
gallon) 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 cloci< is incorporated in the
rev counter.

Rev counter
The rev counter shows the engine speed in
thousands of revs per minute. For maximum fuel economy. the needle should be
kept within the green zone. The needle may
briefly enter the broken red zone but must
never be allowed to enter the solid red
zone.
Saab 900 Turbo 16 only: A safety cut-out
function prevents the engine speed exceeding approximately 6,000 r/min.

Speedometer, milometer and trip

meter
The milometer records the distance travelled m miles or kilometres and the trip
meter m 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 50C (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 in
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.

ltitM

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.

Em

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.

R1I

Main/dipped beam

To change from main beam to dipped beam

or vice versa. lift the stalk towards the steering wheel. This will also flash the headlights
on main beam if the headlights are not
switched on.

Instruments and controls

Headlight beam-length adjustment

Switch for parking Jlghts and headlights

SG 9io

Stalk switch for main/dipped beam and direction indicators

1 Maml d1pped beam or headlight flasher
2 Indicators lot left tum
3 Indicators lot nght tum

Some variants are equipped with a system

for adjustmg the length of the beam from
the headlights when this is affected by the
way 1n which the car is loaded. The system
composes an actuator motor at either headlighl and a switch on the fascia. The switch,
which mus1 not be operated unless the ignition is on, has the following four positions:
0- Fronlseat passenger and/or driver only
(no luggage)
1- Driver plus 4 passengers only (no luggage)
2 Fully laden (Driver plus 4 passengers
and max. load in bool or driver only plus
max. load in bool)
3 Maximum trailer load (Driver only plus
maximum trailer toad)

Note
The above is inlended as a guide to suitable swilch positions. This facility is provided 10 enable the driver to use his own
discretion to choose the setting that will
give optimum lighlmg on dipped beam wrth
oul dazzling other road users.

l:ZJI
SG966A

Direction indicators

To switch on the direction indicators, move

the stalk up or down. The stalk has a springloaded position tor use of the indicators for
changing lanes or overtaking. In the fixed
pos1hon, the indicators will remain on until

Switch for adjustment ot headlight

beam-length

cancelled automatically by the sleenng

wheel.
The respective repeater light on the instru
ment panel will flash at the same rate as the
direction indicators.

Reversing lights
The reversing lights come on automatically
when reverse gear is selected.

Instrument illumination
The brightness 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 mir
ror 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.

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 nash. The
hazard warning lights should only be used
if, because of a collision or breakdown, the
car constitutes a danger or obstruction to
other road users.

Luggage compartment light

Hazard warning light switch

Luggage compartment lig ht

SG

es

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)

SG 879

Hazard warning lights

The rear fog light is incorporated in the rear

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

Instruments and controls

Stalk switch for wipers and

washers
The stalk switch for the wipers and wash
ers has the following positions:
1 Windscreen wipers, intermiUent 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 for the headlights and wind
screen .

Stalk switch for wipers and washers

Switch for rear-window heating

-numiiiiim

SG 958

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 off 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 tor some markets are equipped with a
time-delay relay which limits to a tew min
utes the time during which the rear window
is electrically heated.

Switch for the e/eclrically heated

driver's seat

SG 911

Heated driving seat

On some variants the driving seat is

equipped with adjustable heating of the
seat 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
Fresh 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.

E:m

Fan

The amount of air admitted to the car is

controlled by the fan switch. The fan runs
continuously except when the air d istribution control is set to 0.
To increase the air flow, turn the fan control
clockwise.

Temperature control
Infinitely variable concrol of the temperature
of the supply air (between the limits) is pos,4jr vents
I Defroster vents
2 Side vents
3 Central panel vents

Heating and ventilation controls

Fan switch
2 Temperature control
3 Air distribution control
I

4 Floor vents

sible by means of the temperature control.

Turn the control clockwise to increase the
temperature.

F.ltil;F

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 the direction of the air flow to be selected as desired (for instance, in very cold weather it
may be advisable to d irect 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

2
"1

-.....

I
4

SG908

Cold weather. For rapid defrosting, turn

the air distribution control to position
~ and select the maximum fan speed.
Thereafter, to keep the inside of the car at
a comfortable temperature, turn the air distrib).ltion control to position
{] or
tf and select a suitable fan speed and
temperature.
Hot weather. When the car is very hot and
maximum cooling is required, turn the air
distribution control to position t> and
select the maximum fan speed.

Instruments and controls

Thereafter, to maintain comfortable venllla
ti~ tum the control to position <lX> or
and select a suitable fan speed. For
an adequate air change rate inside the car.
the fan should be used even when the car
is travelling at speed. Regulate the temperature o f the incoming air as required.
Nole that the central panel vents admit only
unheated fresh air.

Misted windows
For rapid demisting tum the air d1stnbut100
control to position ~ and select fan
speed 2 or 3 at highspeed driving.

Switches for the air conditioning system

1 On/off
2 Air recirculation

50959

A ir conditioning (when fitted)

When fitted. the air conditioning system is
incorporated on the standard heating and
ventilation system and operated by the
same controls. To switch on the air condi
tioning, depress the AC switch on the in
strumenl panel.
N.B. Starting o f the air conditioner com
pressor is delayed by about 1O seconds
when the engine is started, in order to avoid
applying additional load onto the engine.
This delay will be operative only if the AC
swttch has been pressed before the ignitlOO
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 inside the car recirculated through the venti
lation system. To reduce the likelihood of
the windows misting up inside the car, the
air recirculation function will only operate
when the AC system is switched on. N.B.
Do not use the air r&Qrculation facility in
cold weather as this can result in ice and
mist forming on the windows.
When the air distribution control is set to O
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 is no
need to switch off the AC system as a thermostat in the system will switch off the AC

11

compressor automatically ti necessary. If

the air conditioning system is not working
properly. refer to the section Air condition
1ng fautt diagnosis'.

Climate system tips

Defogging windows Switching on the AC
compressor in combination with turning up
the temperature control will accelerate defogging . The recirculahon switch should be
off.
Defrosting windshield For maximum effect. tum the temperature control fully
clockwise and the aor distribution control to
twelve oclocl<. Increase the fan speed as
the air begins to warm up.
Heat plus fresh air On a long winter drive,
cool air directed toward the face can help
fight drowsiness. Select the nine o'clock
position on the air distribution control and
adjust the center panel vent to suit.
AC modulation For maximum cooldown,
engage the AC switch and select the seven
o'clock position on the air distnbution control (temperature control fully counter clockwise to blue spot). As the desired comfort
level is reached , switch the air distribution
to eight 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 center vent toward the
rear. between the front seats. or close it
with the thumb wheel switch on the vent itself.

12

Instruments and controls

Maximum air flow for

Defroster vents
open.

Floor and defroster

vents open .

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 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chlld 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 1s 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
height. In Converible and three-door models. the backrests can be folded foiwards.
The seats of cars for the FE and ME- markets have no electric heating.

To ad1ust the head restraint - - - - 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 with the occupant's
head.

Legroom adjustment
Lift the bat and shde the
seat to the desired position.
Release the bar and check
that the seat is locked in
the new position.

Head restraint
The head restraints can be raised or low
ered and to give maximum protection
should be adjusted to the same height as 1.--_ _ _ ___;
the occupant's head.
To raise the head restraint. grip it on either
side and pull it straight up.
To lower the head restraint: press the top Height adjustment
straight down.
Pull forward the telescopic lever
and raise or lower the lever until
the desired height is obtained.

To fold the backrest forward, (3-door and

Convertible)
Release the backrest by
raising the lever and then
told the backrest lorward.

Backrest rake angle

To ad1ust the backrest, turn
the wheel until the backrest
is 1n the desired position.

Controls for electncaHy ad/uslable front seats

1 Backrest rake an91e
2 L99room and height ad1ustment

Interior equipment

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 occu
pants. Each belt may only be worn by one
person at a time.
Apart from the belt for the middle rear-seat
passenger (n/a 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

Electrically adjustable seats

Some variants are equipped with elect(ically 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 used
to adjust the seat manually for legroom.

Seat belts

SG1119

15

Front seat belt

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 ii 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 belt, 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 the seat belt

SG 919

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 tap.
No modifications or additions should be
made by the user which either prevent
the seat belt adjusting devices from op
erating to remove slack, or prevent the
seat belt assembly from being adjusted
to remove slack.

Interior equipment

17

Child safety
To travel safely in the car, children must be
restrained 1n some way. However. the restraint used must be suitable for the size of
the child. For this reason, before filling any
type of 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 s11 up by 1tseH. a
properl y fitted child seat provide s the best
protection, However, these should no
longer be used when a child has outgrown
them. i.e. when they no longer provide ample support for the head and legs.
When a child has outgrown child seats. the
standard seal belt with a booster cushion
should be used. Make sure that you are
famllla r with the law regard ing child
passen gers.

Child restraint anchorages, 900

Comb1 Coupe and Sedan

SG 136

Child restra int ancho rages, 900

Comb l Coupe and Sedan (Australia
only)
To attach the restraints:
1 Remove the covering plugs from the
holes under the two cross-s haped cuts
1n the luggage compartment floor car
pet.
2 Fasten the anchor bolts with their
shackles m the holes, using specially
designe d spacers.
3 Bolt dimension: UNC 5116, lenght 25
mm. Spacer dimension: 20 mm o (hole
12 mm o), thickness 1O mm.

so 766

18

Interior equipment
4 After removing ghe head rest, attach
the ch~d restraint to the anchorage by
fastening the anchof bolt in the hole.
Bolt dimension UNG 5 16. length 20-25
mm (Austraha).

WARNING:
Do not lower the top with passengers in
the rear seat area.

,,,,,,( ,
,QI
.. J

Child restraint anchorages.

900 Convertible

SG1019

Child restraint anchorages, 900

Convertible (Australia only)
To attach the restraints:
1 Raise the convertible top and lower the

When driving with the top lowered and a

child restraint 1n the back seat. do not tit
the cover panels
Child restraint anchorages are designed
to withstand only those loads imposed by
correctly fitted child restraints Under no
circumstances are they to be used for
adult seat belts or harnesses.

Rear-view mirrors
The rear-view mirror is of the anti-dazzle
type and can be deflected by means of the
lever underneath the mirror.
The door mirrors are anto-gfare treated and
are adiustable by means of the levers on
the inside of the front doors.

Some models are equipped with

electrically adjustable door mirrors. The
switches for these are located on the instrument panel. 10 either side of the steering
wheel. The switches may be moved up,
down. left or right.

Door mirror

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

SG 921

Interior equipment
cg

I/(\j

-~- .
'-.'>:~

.......

- . - " '

Catch for door mirror

(Convertible)

SG388

900 Convertible: If subjected to excessive

force, the door mirrors will fold back. They
can also be parked in this position. Carefully 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

I Spring catch
2 Cigar lighter

SG ass

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 housing, 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

;;;

Switches for electric windows and

switch to render cJoor switches for
rear windows inoperative

SG111e

Electric windo ws
The two-position rocker switches forthe electric windows are located on
the switch panel on the centre console. The
switches for the front-doors window have a
third position beyond the springloaded detent position. With the switch in this position, the window will open fully without the
need to keep the switch depressed. Door
switches are also provided for operation of
the rear windows but these can be ren
dered inoperative by a switch on the centre
console (marked ON/OFF) 10 prevent child
ren playing with them.

:1

Door switch for rear window

S0?37

WARNING
Always remove the 1gmhon key when
leaving the car to avert the risk of injury
arising from unattended children operat
ing the windows

Sunroof handle

50996

Sunro of
To open the sunroof: slide the panel back
by means of the handle. Release the handle when the sunrool is open the desired
amount, whereupon It will lock in that position. To close lhe sunroof: slide the panel
forward by means of the handle, making
sure that it clicks shut

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

Convertible top
Switch for electric sunroof

SG1116

ROOF
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

GENERAL SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS
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 for stowage
of the top only. Loose items left here
could 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 o r raising the top, re
move any child seats. carrycots, children or 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
o f 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 ot the top.
The 900 Convertible is designed tor a max
imum of four 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 equipment

Lowering the top

CAUTION
Keep hands well clear of the hinges and
linkages when lowering the top.
Before lowering 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
behind the rear seats (this space should
not be used for storage other than for
stowage o f the top itself) .
Note Iha! the rear screen must either be
raised and secured with the zipper or lowered entirely into !he space behind the
rear seats. Never leave it resting horizontally against the rear-seat backrest.
1 Apply !he handbrake (The top cannot
be operated unless the handbrake is
on.)
2 Turn the ignition key 10 the drive posilion.
3 Lower all side windows and the sun visors.
4 Undo the lwo latching handles, to release the hooks from the strikers.
5 Press the ROOF switch to raise the top
to the posilion at which it will remain
open (approx. t - 2 feet (30 - 60 cm)
above the windscreen frame).

Latching handle
1 Hook
2 Slfiker

$G1126

$()1127

6 Return the two handles to their original

posilions.

N.B.
Switch for Converlfb1e IOP

Failure to do so at this stage can resutt in

damage 10 the handles or the car upholstery.
7 Press !he roof switch 10 lower the top
completely Switch off the ignition.
8 Check that the inner lining of the top has
folded down properly behind and clear
of the top edge of the backrest. If not,
tuck 11down 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 driving off.
~-

Securing straps for middle panel

25mm
Fitting the side cover panel

so 928

SG 1e1

Fitting the cover panels

Open the boot. unhook the elastic straps at
either end of the storage bag and take out
the covers.
Inspect and. 11 necessary. clear any dirt
from the groove 1n the black metal rail at the
back of the stowage compartment (1 ).
Starting with the panel for the righthand
side, 1nsen the rear edge into the groove in
the black metal rail. posiltonmg the panel
approximately one inch (25 mm) in from the
end of the rail. Press down the front of 1he
cover (2) until ii snaps into place and is re
tained by the spring clip. Slide the back into
position. In line with the black rail (3).
Fil the lelthand 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 of the backrest.
With the boot lid open. slide the edge of the
middle cover panel under the metal rail and
hne up the studs with the corresponding
fasteners m the side cover panels. Insert
the straps on the back of the cover under
the boot lid and close the ltd. Push down on

24

Interior equipment
t Apply the handbrake. (The top cannot
be operated unless the handbrake Is
on.)
2 Lower all side w rodows and the sun visors. and remove the cover panels.

3 Press the ROOF switch and raise the

Fastener for middle 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 in the bag (see instructions inside the bag).

Raising the top

top to halfway. Thereafter, lower it gently until 1t 1s approx. 2 feet (60 cm) above
the windscreen frame (to prevent the
top closing too soon with ensuing dam
age to the latch ng hooks).
4 Open the latch ng hand es fully.
5 Press the ROOF switch again unfit the
top comes to rest on the windscreen
frame.
6 With one hand on the grab rail at the
front of the top. hold the 1op firmly
against the windscreen frame and lock
the top by pushing Ille atellmg handles
fully home.

Latching handle
1 Hook
2 Sinker

sG1127

Latching mechanis mm in locked position

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

CAUTION
Keep hands well clear of the hinges and
linkages when raising the top.
Before raising the top. make sure that the
rear seats are unoccupied and that people are well clear of lhe car.

SG1125

25

Interior equipment

8 Wrth one hand on the grab rail at the

front of the top, hold the top frrmly
against the windscreen frame and tock
the top by pushing the latching handles
fully home

N.B.
Do not pull the top down by means of the
latching handles.

Top lining held In position by Velcro

strip

SG969A

8 If necessary. adjust the Velcro fasten

ing along the edges ol the top lining
(see picture).
9 Swrtch off lhe ignillOn.

Ra ising the top manually

If necessary. rn the event of a system fail
ure, the top can be raised manually once a
hydrauhc valve (behind a flap in the tnm at
the back ol the boot) has been opened.

CAUTION
Keep hands well clear of the hinges and
linkages when raising the top.
Before raising the top. make sure that the
rear seats are unoccupied and that peo
pie are well clear ol the car.

Valve for manual operation of the

top

SG112

1 Apply the handbrake.

2 Lower al side windows and the sun vi

sors.
3 Open the manual valve fully by turning
the hand e a quarter-tum clockwise.
4 Remove the cover panels and stow
them msrde the bag. Do not secure the
bag 1n the 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 en

gaged.
10 If necessary, adjust the Velcro fasten
Ing along the edges of lhe top lining
(see picture).
11 Fully close the manual valve by turning
rt a quarter-turn anti-clockwise.
12 Secure the bag in the boot.
Latching mechamsm in locked poS/ffO{)

SGl12S

26 Interior eqi:u""ipc:. :m. :. :. .:ce.:. .n.:. .t- - - -- - - - - - - - -- - - - -- - - -- - -- - - - Lowering the top manually

If required, 1n the event of a system failure,

the top can also be lowered manually, once
the hydraulic valve located behind a flap in
the trim at the back of the boot has been
opened.
CAUTION
Keep hands well clear of the hinges and
linkages when lowering the top.
Before lowering the top, make sure that
the rear seat is unoccupied and that
people are well clear of the car.
Remove any loose items from the space
behind the rear seat (this space should
not be used for storage other than for
slowage of the top itself).
Note that the rear screen must either be
raised and secured with the zipper or
lowered entirely into the space behind
the rear seats Never leave it resting
horizontally against 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 latching handles fully.

Latching handle
1 Hook
2 Slrlker

SG1127

5 Holding the grab rail at the front of the

top, partly raise the top and then return
the latching handles to the dosed pos1
!Ion.
6 From the side of the car. with the open
palm of the hand under the side of the
top frame. lift the top towards the back.
Keep hands well clear of the linkages.

7 Push the top right the way down behind

the rear seats.
8 Fully close the manual valve by turning
it a quarter-turn anti-clockwise. Replace
the trim panel over the valve.
9 Fit the cover panels as detailed earlier
in this section.

Support strap for rear screen

so 96

Opening the rear screen

The rear screen can be opened to provide
a greater flow of air through the interior
when the Slde windows are down. Open the
rear screen as follows:
1 Support the screen by securing the

strap to the hanger.

2 Release the hmng flaps on either side
adjacent to the screen.
3 Open the zipper completely.
4 Undo the strap and lower the screen
carefully down behind the rear seats.
Re-secure the lining flaps.

Interior equipment
CAUTION
To prevent damage 10 the rear screen.
never s1ore any hard or sharp objects be
hind the rear seals.
Raising the rear screen
1 Open the latching handles at the front
of the lop 10 release the tension in the
fabric.
2 Release Iha lining flaps on either side,
adiacent to the rear screen.
3 lift the rear screen into position, securing it by means of the slrap.
4 Close the zipper and re-secure lhe lin
ing flaps
5 Close the latching handles.

Ztpper tor rear screen

Checki ng the level of the hydraulic

flufd ( Convertible)
The reservoir is located undemealh the
rear seat. To remove the seat cushion, gnp
the front of the seat and lift ~ up.
The reservoir 1s lransparen1 to facohtate
checking of the fluid level. The level should
be above lhe mark when the top is down.
and below the mark when the top is up. If
lhe level is low, do not add any fluid your
sett. Contact an authorized Saab dealer,
who will check lhe sys1em for leaks and top
it up with the special fluid required.

Hydraulicfluid reservoir

SG113 1

Audio equipment

Removing the seat wshion

SG968

27

A cable for the car aerial has already been

run on all models of the Saab 900. In some
models, cables have also been run for an
eiectnc aenal. or complete with electnc
aenal. and front and rear sets of speakers.
The cables are accessible behind instru
ment panel console, the speaker cover on
the instrument panel and behind the tnm in
the luggage compartment.
Further details of these and other accesso
rles are contained in a leaflet available from
your Saab dealer.

and luggage compartment

s....:..
_c::..:.k:.:.
s,'--lo
Do.:....o'--r_,
_ _ _ _ _ __ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

29

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

30
30
31
32
33

30

Doors, locks and luggage compartment

Doors

Central locking

Both front doors may be locked by key from

the outside. Most models have central locking. The key supplied with the car fits all
locks. The serial number of the key is
stamped on the dose on the keyring. 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 driver's door is lockedfunlocked ,

all other doors will also be lockedfunlocked
by the central loci<ing system, the passenger doors can be unlocked by key from the
outside (front door only) or by raising the
locking buttons on the onside of the doors.
Similarly, the passenger doors can be
locked by the locking buttons when the central locking system is unlocked. The luggage compartment door can also be
lockedfunlocked separately by key.
SG 889

Locking butlon

Door in 3-door models

I Window regulator
2 Door handle

LH door /eek
1 To unlock
2 To kl<:k

3 Closing handle

SG 890

Child safety catch in 4-door and

5-door modttls
1 Door can be opened from Inside or outside
opened from outside
2 Door can only

oo

Doors, locks and luggage compartment

31

s (i 034
Luggage compartment door Saab 900
Sedan and Convertible

Catch for rear side window

(3-door models)

SG920

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.

1 Lock operated by central locking

system
2 Locked position cannot be unlocked by central locking system
3 To unlock when locked by central
locking system

Handle inside luggage compartment

door

Luggage compartment door,

Saab 900 Cambi Coupe
1 To unlock

2 To look
3 Handle

The luggage compartment door is fitted

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

_an~
SGSS9

sa ese

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 fhe 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 1s 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
left-hand side. underneath the instrument
panel. To open the bonnet:
1 Pull the handle whereupon the leading
edge of the bonnet will spring up, prov1d1ng access to the safety catch.

Catch for rear parcel shelf

SG 899

On the 900 Convertible the seal is lixed

and cannot be folded.
The spare wheel. 1ack and tool kit are
stowed under a panel in the luggage compartment floor

Strap tor seat cush10n

Backrest cateh

SG875

Bonnet reteaso handle

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

SG903

Doors, locks and luggage compartment

Glove compartment

Bonnet safety catch

2 Press down on the leading edge of the
bonnet and pull the catch forwards. The
leading edge of the bonnet will now
spring up enabhng the bonne1 to be
tilted forward.

Glove oomparrment
1 To unk>cK
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

Ignition switch and

gear lever lock
The ignition switch has the following posi
lions:
p
Locking position

'-~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. tn this position the gear lever/se
lector lever is locked and the parking lights
and hazard warning lights can be switched
on.
~

Ltt\S

Parking p osition

\.\J

The gear lever/selector lever is unlocked

and the dipped beam. tail lights and num
ber plate 1lluminat1on are switched on, provided that the lighting switch is in the head

light position.

a.s
...'J
I

Drive position

The entire electrical system is operative.

Never leave the key In the drive position
unless the engine Is running.
Never leave the Ignition switched on
(key In drive position) without the engine running as this can damage the ignition system.

WARNING
Starting position

This operates the starter motor. When re

leased, the key springs back automatically
to the drive position. 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 running the starter mo
tor again to give the battery time to recover.
When starting in very cold weather. make
sure that all heavy power consumers 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 oll warning light has been extin
guished, to enable the engine to reach its
normal running 1emperature as soon as
possible.

When starting 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
glne 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 (in very cold weather it may
be necessary to keep the starter motor
running for up to fifteen seconds) . Let
the engine run for about ten seconds
before touching the accelerator pedal.
Do not run the engine on full throttle
(accelerator hard down) until the engine
has been running 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 o f the clutch having been released
too quickly), hold down the accelerator and
turn the engine over on the starter motor for
about 5 10 seconds to prevent the engine
from becoming flooded (fueVair mocture too
nch). Therealler. 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 service-free. The
valve clearance is set up accurately at the
factory and will not require further adjustment.
In certain conditions the hydraulic cam followers may emit a licking noise that can be
heard inside the car. For instance, the noise
may be heard for a few seconds immediately alter the engine has been started until
the oil pressure has built up.
It is possible for air to enter the lubricating
system when the oil or oil filler is changed
or if the car has been left standing for a prolonged period. In this case the ticking noise
may be heard for as long as fifteen minutes
alter starting, but, again. this is normal and
does not indicate any malfunction. However, do not exceed 3.000 r,min until the
noise has disappeared.

Important points to note when

driving (900 Turbo 16 models)
t Starting and dnving
Never accelerate at full throttle before the
reading on the temperature gauge is normal (needle in green zone).
If the needle on the pressure gauge repeatedly enters the red zone, a loss ol
engine power may be experienced owing
lo the safety cut-out system limiting the
charging pressure. If this happens. take
the car to an authorized Saab workshop
without delay. Under certain atmospheric
conditions, the needle may briefly enter
the broken red zone, but this is normal
and does not indicate a malfunction.
The engine is also equipped with a safety
cut-out to prevent the engine exceeding
approx. 6.000 r/min.
2 Stopping the engine

Do not rev the engine immediately before

switching 11 off but switch it off only when
11 is idling This 1s lo 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 give optimum engine performance when 97 octane fuel (RON) IS being used. When fuel
of this or a higher octane rating is used .
the engine will 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
(minimum. 91 octane RON) quite safely
The same performance as that achieved
with 97 octane fuel can also be achieved
for 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 suppl!ed by the turbo to suit the knocking/pinking tendencies of 1he engine. Brief
spells of knocking in the engine are perfectly normal. These can occur when a
heavy load is put on the engine at about
3,000 r/min and the extent of the knocking will depend on the grade of fuel being
used.
Isolated instances of knocking 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 is
working normally, and is perfectly safe
for the engine.
However, if oonstant knocking occurs every time a load is put on the engine, this
indicates a mallunction in the system.

38

Starting and driving

Important considerations for cars

with catalytic converter (certain
models only)
The catalytic converter rs an exhaust
mission control device incorporated in the
exhaust system. It consists of a honeycomb
ceramic insert. the cells of which have their
walls coated with catalytic matenal (plati
num and rhodium).
To ensure that the catalytic converter func
tions property and to avoid damage to the
active constituents of the catalyst lhe fol
lowing points must be observed
Use only unleaded petrol. (Use of leaded
petrol will damage the catalyst and oxy
gen sensor and drastically reduce the
performance of the device.)
Always keep the car properly serviced rn
accordance with the service programme
This applies particularly to the fuel and
ignition systems.
Always be alert to any misfiring of the
engine (engine not running on all cylin
ders) . any loss o f power or any symptom
of reduced performance. At the first s19n
of anything being wrong, reduce speed
and take the car to an authorized Saab
dealer as soon as possible.
If the car is difficult to s tart (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 important that it

runs on all four cylinders. If not, let the

engine idle lor a maximum of five min
utes to give rt time to run smoothly. If. af
ter this period. the engine still misfires.
the spark plugs musl be replaced. If the
engine fails to run properly even after
new plugs have been fitted. get in touch
with an authorized Saab dealer.
Never drive off 1f the engine is misfiring!
If the car 1s being bump started and the
engine rs already at about no<mal tern
perature. the engine must run on all four
cylinders 1mmed1ately after starting.

Oxygen sensor regulated Jtlfeclion system

1 Electronrc contro unrt
2 Oxygen sensor
3 Catalytrc converter

--

If after a bumpstarting attempt the engine

fails to stan immediately, do not attempt
to start it again by bump starting.
Failure to follow these directions can re
suit rn damage to the catalytic converter
and associated components and may
represent a breach of the warranty con
dotons.

Running in
Pistons, cytrnder walls and t>eanngs need
time 10 bed in. to ob1a1n uniform, wear
re51s1ant surfaces. If a new engine rs driven
too hard. this gradual process of wearing in
will not be possible and the life of the en
gine will be shortened
Accordingly for the first 3,000 km or so
never dnve the car at full throttle olher than
momentarily .
In the case of turbo-engine cars, dunng the
first 2.000 km do not exceed S.000 r/min.

Running in of new brake pads

The running-in period for new brake pads
is around 150 km of city driving or SOO km
of highway motoring . To extend the service
life. avoid hard braking dunng 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

5
I
I

" ' - - - . ;SG311

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
1st - 2nd
2nd 3rd
3rd 4th
4th Sth

39

ND

Road speed
1s mph (25 km/h)
25 mph (40 km/h)
40 mph (65 km/h)

PR21

45 mph (75 km/h)

Automatic gearbox
The selector positions are marked on the
console cover.
P = Park
R = Reverse
N = Neutral
D = 1st 3rd gear
}
forward speeds
2 = 1st 2nd gear
1 = 1st gear only
To prevent damage to the gearbox. some
gears can only be selected after the button
in the top ol 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

Selector lever (automatic gearbox

only)

SG1178

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

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 selecior in the 0 position, movement of the lever to position 2 will give an
immediate change-down to second gear for
greater engine braking power. Position 2
must not be selecied at road speeds exceeding 55 mph (90 km/h).

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
will take place. Once the speed of the car
has dropped below about 37 mph (60
km/h), the car will change down to first gear.
Never move the lever to this position at
speeds exceeding 55 mph (90 km/h). Second and third gears cannot be engaged
when the lever is in position 1.

N
With the selector 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 position if the car is moving forward.

p
This is the pos11ton for parking. The lever
must be tn this position before the 19nihon
key can be turned to the locking position
and withdrawn In this position, the selector
lever 1s locked and the gearbox immob<lized.
Never select position P when the car is
moving

Driving off
1 With the brakes applied, move the selector lever to a drive position (position
D is normal for loiward driving).
2 Release the brakes and apply the accelerator

Kick-down
If a change-down is required for maximum
accelerahon. e.g for overtaking. press the
accelerator hard down, beyond the fullthroltle position. For instance, if the accelerator is pushed down to the kick-down position when the car is travelling at a speed
or between 34 and 65 mph (55 - 105 km/h),
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
WARNING

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 switch should be in the OFF po
silion.
Certain variants are equipped with the
cruise-control system as standard; on cer
tain other variants the system is available
as an option.
The cruise control system is operated by
two switches incorporated in the left-hand
stalk switch. The sliding switch has four po
s1tions OFF. TIP. ON and RESUME. The
push-button switch tn the end of the stalk is
the SET SPEED switch.

Cru1Se control SWltc/les

Starting and driving

To select the requi red speed

Temporary red uction in speed

Move the switch to ON. Accelerate 10 the

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

The cruise control system 1s always cancelled by operation of the brake or the
clutch pedal . A smoother reduC1ion 1n
speed 1s obtained by moving me sliding
sw1lch to position TIP However. the system
can be brought into operauon again for the
preselected speed by holding the switch 1n
the RESUME pos11JOn for a few moments.

To reduce the selected speed

Touch the brake pedal until the required
speed is obtained and then press SET
SPEED.
To increase the selected speed
Accelerate lo the required speed and then
press SET SPEED SPEED. 11 is also possible to increase the speed by means of the
SET SPEED control. The speed will in
crease for as long as SET SPEED is de
pressed.
Temporary Increase in speed
The system allows you to increase speed
temporarily, lor instance to accelerate lor
overtaking When the accelerator is re
leased the system will then revert to the
preselected speed.

Disengaging the system

The cruise control system will be disengaged (switched off):

If either the brake pedal or clutch pedal

is depressed
If the switch is moved to TIP
If the switch is moved 10 OFF
When the engine is swrtched off

41

Braking
When dnv1ng in alpine country and similar
conditions. to avoid the risk of the brakes
overheating on long descents, always use
the braking effect of the engine by dnving
in a low gear. If your car has an automatic
gearbox, position 1 or 2 should be selected
In high-speed motoring, the life of the
brakes can be increased: Avoid braking
over long stretches. Instead, brake more
firmly over a shorter period o f time.
CAUTION
It Is good practice to try your brakes periodically while driving but particularly so
if you have been driving through snow.
slush or deep puddles or fords; 1f the
brakes are wet. their efficiency may be
drastically reduced until they dry oul.
Braking with ABS anti-lock brakes
To stop as quickly as possible, press lhe
pedal hard down regardless of the cond1l1on
ol the road surface (dry. wet, slippery, etc.).
The ABS system modulates the braking
pressure to the respective wheels to maintain the maximum braking effect on the car.
without loss of directional stability or steering conlrol. A distinctive pulsating noise can
be heard when lhe system is operating
Because operation ol the ABS system

42

Starting and driving

will be 1nrt1ated by only right pedal pressure

if the road 1s slippery. you can test lhe con
dition of the road by trying your brakes and
then adapl your driving accordingly.

Steering
characteristics
The car has a built-in tendency to under
steer. ie. at a given position of the steering
wheel the turning circle lends to increase as
the speed of the car increases. The car is
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 lhe weigh! of
lhe driver. about 60% of the vehicle weight
is over the front wheels; the corresponding
figure for a fully loaded car is 50 % .

Economical motoring
To keep fuel consumption down and wear
to a minimum, the car needs to be dnven
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
ing .
Frequent gear changing (e.g. town dn111ng),
shon trips when the engine is cold, driving

wrth a roof racl( 0< trailer attached and running on studded snow tyres all increase fuel
consumpoon.

Conditions affecting fuel

consumptio n
Fuel consumption is greatly affected by lhe
general driving conchbons and the style of
driving. the weather. the standard of the
road, the cond1tton of the car, the speed at
which it is dnven etc

Weather conditions
Fuel consumphon may be as much as 10%
better in summer lhan 1n winier. Fuel con
sumption 1s higher 1n cold weather because
of the longer time ii lakes for the engine to
reach normal temperature and for the trans
mission and wheel beanngs lo warm up.
Fuel economy is also affected by the dis
tance driven short tnps no longer than 5 8
km do not give the engine sufficient time to
reach its nonnal running temperature.
Strong winds can also affect 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
lion after the car has travelled 5 km after
starting from cold will be 1.20 ltr/1o km at
an ambient temperature of 2oc an in
crease of 20 % ; t 60 ltr/1o km at o~c an
increase of 60 % ; and 2 .0 ltr/1 O km al an
ambient temperature of 20'C an increase
of 100 % .

__....__

.....
'

toO

"
""
"'

....
....

\.

"'

G 12 1

'

"-._
TM!f *..Wt

'
'

..

Of 1-IOI
rt' f a- I
..., f*2Gt

----

1 ... lt 11
thl)f.. 1\411

SG <112
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 outside 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 driving downhill is less
lhan lhe additional amount required for driv
1ng uphill).

Starting and driving

Driving style and technique
Driving at high speed, frequent accelera
lion, braking and gear changing all increase
fuel consumption, whereas smooth driving
will reduce it. Since engine revolutions are
higher in the low gears at a given road
speed, frequent or prolonged driving in low
gears will increase fuel consumption. For
this reason, always change up to a higher
gear as soon as the traffic cond1llons allow
and drive in high gear for as long as pos
sible.
Practical trials on the roads have demon
strafed that substantial savings in fuel con
sumption can be made if these tips are fol
lowed.

The condition of the car

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

Towing a caravan or trailer greatly increases fuel consumption.

Driving in winter
weather
Before driving off in cold weather, check
that the windscreen and headlight wiper
blades have not become frozen to the
glass. Brush away any snow from the air
intake for the heating system and, in extremely rod weather, apply suitable lubricant (molybdenum disulphide) to the door
locks to prevent their freezing. If a lock has
frozen. take care not to break the key when
trying to unlock 1t. Heat the key first or apply some de-icing agent to it.
Now and again when refuelling in the win
ter. add a fuel additive to the fuel to prevent
any condensation in the fuel tank freezing
and d1srupt1ng the fuel supply. To keep
down the risk of condensation, keep the
fuel tank full.
It is particularly important when the roads
are slippery that the brakes and tyres are in
good cond1t1on. 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
led 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 fitted. 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 suitable tyres.
If the car gels into a front-wheel skid. disengage the transmission by depressing the
dutch (so that the wheels are freewheeling)
and steer the front wheels 1n the direction
you wish Jo go. At all costs. avoid touching
the brakes. To control a rear-wheel skid,
steer into the skid (i.e. steer 1n the direction
the rear of the car is moving).
Conventional snow chains may be fitted to
the front wheels but drive carefully if these
are fitted as sharp cornering and excessive
movement of the suspension may cause
the chains to scrape against the body.
Before fitting snow chains, 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 of the suitability of filling
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 Drive the car in the highest gear possi
ble. even uphill (this keeps the engine
revs down with the result that the en
gine does not get so hot). If your car has
an automatic gearbox, avoid using the
kick-down function.
3 At the end of your journey, do not stop
the engine 1mmed1ately but let it Idle for
two or three minutes first.
4 tf the needle on the temperature gauge
enters the red zone while you are driv
Ing:
Stop the car immediately but do not
switch off the engine.
Even if the expansion tank is empty, do
not remove the filler cap.
Pour cold water over the radiator until the
needle on the temperature gauge has
fallen below the red zone.
Switch off the engine.
Wait until the needle on the temperature
gauge indicates normal temperature
(_about midway) and then remove the
filler cap on the expansion tank and top
up the coolant.
Take the car to an authorized Saab work
shop as soon as possible.

Towing a trailer or
caravan
Towing attachment
A towing attachment, suitable for towing

loads up to 1.500 kg is available as an ac

cessory. Provision in ihe form of bolt holes
has already been made to tacilttate fitting
of the attachment

Trailer (or caravan) weight

On normal roads with gradients not exceed
Ing 10 %, the maximum permissible trailer
weight is 1,500 kg. On roads with steeper
grad!ents (10 12 o/o ), the corresponding fig
ure 1.s 1,200 kg and on roads with steep
grad1en!s (12 15 o/o) the figure is 850 kg.
These figures apply to trailers with brakes.
The maximum permissible weight of a
trailer without brakes is 500 kg.
A trailer should not be towed ii gradients of
15 % or more are likely to be encountered
This 1s because the load on the lront (dnv
1ng) wheels will be so low that the wheels
are likely to rose their traction and spin
making lurther driving impossible.
'
Make sure you are familiar with the law
regardln!! speed limits for towing, maximum trailer weights and trailer braking
requirements and also any speclal drlv
Ing licence provisions.

Towing attachment load

The weight distribution of the trailer load
makes a lot of difference to the handling
properties of the car and trailer coml"na
tion. On a smgleaxle trailer, whenever possible concentrate the load over the wheels
and keep it as tow as possible. The load
should be distributed such that the load on
the towing attachment is between 50 and
75 kg. Note that this load must be included
as part of the car's carrying capacity,
thereby reducing the toad capacity of the
luggage compartment by the same amount.
II heavier trailers are to be towed it is re
comme~ded that pneumatic spring boosters, available as an accessory, be lilted.

Driving with a trailer attached

When towing a trailer always make allow
ance for the altered handling characteristics
of the car and the reduced braking effect.
The trailer brakes. springs and dampers
greatly Influence these characteristics.
To proVlde maximum cooling lor the engine
when towing a trailer up steep httlS, set the
heating system to maximum and swrtch the
fan to high speed.
(Cars with an automatic gearbox) For driv
Ing on steep uphill or downhill slopes with a
trailer attached, move the selector lever to
position 1.

Starting and driving

Driving with a roof-rack

load
The maximum permitted load carried on the
roofrack is 100 kg/220 lb (n/a Convertible).
Note that roof-rack loads are included in the
car's carrying capacity. The root-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
root-rack loads. A roof.rack designed spe
cially for the car is available from your Saab
dealer.

Driving with a loadcarrier

(900 Convertible)
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 exhaust fumes to be drawn into the car, this
should be avoided whenever possible.
However, if this is unavoidable, close all
windows, and set the heating and ventifa
lion to maximum ventilation. and the high
est defroster 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 tyre on the compact spare wheel
should be inflated to a pressure of 420 kPa
(4.2 bar).
Do not drive any further than is necessary
as the maximum life 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 tlashover that can seri
ously damage the car's electrical compo
nents, jump leads must be connected cor
rectly.
1 Switch off the ignition and all power
consumers (lights. radio, etc.) in the
faulty car.
2 Switch off the engine in the donor car.
3 Start by connecting the positive ( +) ter
minal of the donor car battery to the
positive ( +) terminal of the flat battery.

46

Starting and driving

4 Next connect the negative ( -) terminal

of the donor car battery to the engine
mounting ol the faulty car, furthest away
trom the battery (do not connect the
negatrve (-) lead lrom the donor car to
the faulty car battery because a sparll
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 for a
while before disconnecting the jump
leads in the reverse order.

Ccnnect1ng 1ump leads for boost startmg

Towing the car

The car is equipped with towrope attachment eyes front and rear. Drive carefully
and never exceed the speed limit for towing. Keep the towrope taut and remember
that when the engine is not running, much
greater pressure wil' have to be applied to
the brake pedal as 1he servo for the powerass1sted brakes will be inoperative. The
same applies to the steering: without power
assistance. the steering will be very heavy.
Important points to note before being
towed If your car has an automatic gear
box:

1 Make sure that the selector lever is in

the N position.
2 It 1s vital that there is sufficient oil in the
gearbox. Accordingly. add two litres ol
automatic transm1ss1on Huid to bring the
level approximately 5 cm above the
MAX mark.
3 Observe the nallonal speed limit applicable to vehicles on tow but, in any
case. do not exceed 40 km/h.
4 Never tow the car over a greater distance than 40 - 50 km. If the distance is
greater than this, the front wheels must
be raised off the ground.
5 Before the car is driven again, check the
transmission fluid level and adjust it to
the prescribed level.
6 Note that cars with an automatic gearbox cannot be started by towing or
pushing.

Front towrope attachment eye

so 901

Rear towrope attachment 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 .. . . . . . .
Changi ng 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 . . . . . . . .
Textile carpeting . . . . . . . . ..
Engine compartment ... . . . .
Washing the car .. ... .... .
Waxing and polishing. . . . . . .
Touching In the paintwork . . . .
Anticorrosion 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-cylinderonline watercooled engine with twin overhead camshafts and the cylinders Inclined at 45 to
the right. The engine os equipped with an
exhaust emission control system.
The clu1ch is mounted at the front of the en
gine. forming a unit with the gearbox below
II.

Engine oil

16 15

14 13

Under the bonnet of the Saab 900 Turbo t 6

1 Powe1 steenng fluid reservo1t
2 Wate1 pump
3 AC comp1essor
4 Alternator
5 Clutch and brake fluid reservoir
6 Coolant expansion tank
7 Engine oil dipstick
8 Air cleaner

12

11

9 Electtonoc control unol. APC-system

(Turbo)leie<:tron1c control untt. ignmon
system (in1ectlon engine)
1o Vacuum pump, CflJ1se control system
11 lntercooler
12 Ignition coil
13 Oislributor
1 4 Turbo unit
15 Battery
16 Washer fluid reservoir

Check the oil level in the engine regularly.

Make sure the car is on level ground and
allow the engine to cool from normal tem
perature for between two and five minutes.
Remove the dipstick, w ipe 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 up higher than the max
omum mark as this can result on excessive
Otl consumption. The distance between the
MAX and MIN marks on the d1pst1ck 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 dipstick is screwed down tightly
(finger-tight) after use.

Car care and maintenance

The engine 0t1 shoutd be changed at the n
tervals spec11oed In the service programme

49

Cooling system
Expansion tank

N.B.
Take care not to confuse the drain plugs
lor the engine 011 and gearbox oil.

Oil filter
Oil filler cap/dipstick

SG882

The 0tl filter must be changed at the Inter

vats specified in the Service Programme .
When fitting a new filter. lightly lubricate the
rubber seal with engine oil and then tighten
the ' ter by hand

Oil filter

Engine oil drain plug

SG990

The expansion tank is transparent to facil

itate checking of the coolant level. The level
should be between the MAX and MIN
marks on the side of the tank. Top up as
necessary with equal parts of water and
Saab coolant After replenishing an empty
expansion tank. run the engine to normal
temperature then top up again as required.

Coolant
The cooling system is charged at the fac
tory with a coolant containing 50 % special
antifreeze and anti-rorrosoon hquod. The
mixture should never be weaker than this
owing to the nsk of corrosion. For J)(Otecbon in extreme weather cond1t1ons a higher

Coolant expansion tank

50

Car care and maintenance

concentration will be necessary: for protection at .5oec a 60 % concentration of anti

freeze will be required.
The corrosion inhibiting properties of the
coolant deteriorate in time but Saab origi
nal 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 pro
portions 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.

.......
'
0

Radiator drain cock

,..:>--..

,,>--_;...

SG 269

Changing the coolant

1 Set the heater control (TEMP) to max-

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.

CAUTIQN
The cooling system is a pressurized sys
tern. Always open the filler cap on the ex
pansion tank carefully, releasing any
vapour before removing the cap.

4
5

imum.
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.
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.
Remove the filler cap on the expansion
tank.
Unscrew the drain plug in the right-hand
side of the block. underneath the ex
haust manifold. Allow the coolant to
drain completely.
Close the drain cock on the radiator, re
fit the drain plug in the block and make

Coolant bleed nipple

SG1 '12

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.