Haynes launches Saab Manual

The Saab 9-3 was introduced in the UK in March 1998, as a replacement for the 900. The second generation 9-3 was introduced in October 2002 and superseded in September 2007. It is based on the General Motors Epsilon platform, also shared by the Vauxhall Vectra, and available as a 4-door Saloon, 5-door Estate, or 2-door Convertible.

Mainstream engines are the 2.0 litre turbo petrol (badged as 1.8t, 2.0t and 2.0T signifying different power outputs), and the diesel engine which is a 1.9 litre turbo developed in conjunction with Fiat, with whom GM had links at the time. The 2.0T petrol engine produces 154 kW - that's 200 horsepower in old money - and even the lowest-powered diesel produces 88 kW (114 bhp).

This is a high-performing car with equipment levels to match. So what’s the catch? Higher than average servicing costs if you stick to the dealer network, though there are plenty of independent specialists who will charge less than two-thirds of the dealer's labour rate. Further good news is that a Haynes Owner’s Workshop Manual for the range has just been published, so even if you don't plan to get the spanners out yourself, you can check that the independent mechanic is doing the job 'by the book'.

For the home mechanic, the Saab 9-3 is a relatively straightforward vehicle to maintain and repair, since design features have been incorporated to reduce the actual cost of ownership to a minimum, and most of the items requiring frequent attention are easily accessible. The Haynes recommended maintenance schedules emphasise the importance of frequent engine oil and filter changes for long life and reliability, and (in the case of the diesels) suggest renewing the timing belt a little earlier than at the intervals prescribed by the manufacturer.

There are sections on daily, weekly and routine maintenance plus instructions for straightforward jobs such as wiper blade replacement. Also included is advice on preparing for the MOT test, fault-finding charts and useful guidance for driving economically. For example - even something as simple as under-inflated tyres can cost you several pounds on each tankful of fuel. It's worth bearing in mind that whatever make of car you drive, it will use less fuel (and be less polluting) if it is properly maintained!

Haynes Owners Workshop Manuals have an enviable reputation worldwide for precise, extensively illustrated instructions to enable owners to undertake everything from simple tasks to major overhauls – and avoid costly garage bills.

As with all the manuals, the new Saab 9-3 Petrol & Diesel Owners Workshop Manual (98 – Aug 08) R to 02, was written and illustrated following the complete stripdown and re-assembly of a car.

There are sections on:
Maintenance – simple weekly checks to keep you on the road
Servicing – complete, fully illustrated step-by-step guides
Fault-finding – information helping you to pinpoint specific problems easily
Brakes – safety checks and repairs for the home mechanic
and Haynes Tips – valuable short cuts to make many tasks easier.

Haynes Manuals retail at £18.99 (hardback) and are available from haynes.co.uk or from all good automotive accessory retailers and bookshops including Halfords and Motor World.