🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Saab

Model:

9-3

Year:

2008

Manual Title:

2008 Saab 9-3 Owners Manual

Manual Product Id:

Not Specified

Model Generation:

Second Generation (2003-2011)

Vin Decoder Reference:

Refer to vehicle VIN for specific configuration details

👋 Introduction

Saab Brand Positioning:

Saab was positioned as a premium brand known for its aviation-inspired design, safety, and unique driving characteristics. The 9-3 was Saab's compact executive car.

Competitors 2008:

BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Volvo S40/V50, Acura TSX, Lexus IS.

Saab 9-3 Highlights:

Turbocharged engines, front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive (Haldex), focus on driver engagement, unique styling, strong safety reputation.

Owner Benefit:

Provides essential information for safe operation, optimal performance, and extended longevity of the 2008 Saab 9-3.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Operation, maintenance, safety, features, and controls of the 2008 Saab 9-3

Trim Level Coverage:

Likely covers all standard US market trim levels including Linear, Vector, and Aero (specifics depend on manual edition)

Estimated Page Count:

~250-350 pages (typical for owner's manuals)

Manual Classification:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Booklet (as described by product information)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, exhaust system

Drivetrain:

Automatic and manual transmission operation, clutch operation (manual), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Chassis:

Braking system (ABS, EBD), steering system, suspension system, wheels and tires

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, electrical accessories, Saab Information Display (SID)

Body:

Doors, windows, locks, seats, airbags, interior trim, exterior body panels, convertible top operation (if applicable)

Comfort And Convenience:

Climate control (manual/automatic), audio system, power accessories, keyless entry, cruise control

Basic Maintenance:

Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement

Safety Procedures:

Seat belt usage, airbag system explanation, child restraint system installation, safe driving practices, emergency procedures

Troubleshooting:

Warning lights explanation, basic diagnostic indicators on the SID, common operational issues

User Adjustments:

Seat adjustment, steering wheel adjustment, mirror adjustment, climate control operation, infotainment system settings

Depth Of Information:

Designed for the end-user; covers operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle functions. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Availability:

While the product is described as a printed booklet, official Saab manuals were often available digitally (PDF). This specific listing refers to the printed version.

Print Type:

Standard print quality for automotive owner's manuals, typically with clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

Stapled or perfect bound booklet

Paper Quality:

Durable paper stock suitable for glove box storage and frequent reference.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type Standard:

2.0L Inline-4 Turbocharged (B207R/B207L)

Engine Displacement Standard:

1998 cc (2.0 Liters)

Horsepower Standard:

175 hp @ 5500 rpm (B207L), 210 hp @ 5500 rpm (B207R - often found in Vector/Aero)

Torque Standard:

221 lb-ft @ 1500-4000 rpm (B207L), 221 lb-ft @ 2500-4000 rpm (B207R - often with overboost function)

Engine Type Optional:

2.8L V6 Turbocharged (B284L/B284R 'TurboX')

Engine Displacement Optional:

2792 cc (2.8 Liters)

Horsepower Optional:

255 hp @ 5500 rpm (B284L), 280 hp @ 5500 rpm (B284R 'TurboX')

Torque Optional:

295 lb-ft @ 1850-4500 rpm (B284L), 295 lb-ft @ 1700-4500 rpm (B284R 'TurboX')

Fuel Induction:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) with Turbocharging

Fuel Requirement:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended, especially for turbo models)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual (often M56/M58)

Transmission Type Optional:

6-Speed Manual (often M62 - typically with 2.0T High Output or 2.8 V6)

Transmission Type Automatic:

5-Speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E) or 6-Speed Automatic (GM 6L50 - with V6 engines)

Automatic Features:

Driver Shift Control (manual mode selection)

AWD Availability:

Optional on some models (e.g., TurboX, some Vector trims) using Haldex All-Wheel Drive system.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 179.5 inches (4560 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.7 inches (1770 mm)

Height:

Approx. 57.7 inches (1465 mm) (Sedan/SportCombi)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 102.4 inches (2604 mm)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x110

Wheel Size Standard:

16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels

Wheel Size Optional:

18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels (Aero, TurboX)

Trunk Volume Sedan:

Approx. 15.3 cu ft (435 L)

Cargo Volume Sportcombi:

Approx. 20.4 cu ft (579 L) behind rear seats, expandable to 47.7 cu ft (1352 L) with rear seats folded.

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3100 - 3600 lbs (1406 - 1633 kg), depending on engine and configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

5 Stars (for 2008 model year, check specific year reports)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Often awarded Top Safety Pick status (check specific year reports)

Active Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Passive Safety Features:

Advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, OnStar (if equipped), Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR), available rear side airbags, three-point seat belts with pretensioners.

Convertible Rollover Protection:

Integrated rollover protection system (pop-up roll bars) for convertible models.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Various Saab Audio Systems, often with CD player, AM/FM radio, and optional MP3 playback. Higher trims could feature premium sound systems like Harman Kardon.

Navigation System:

Optional factory-installed navigation system, typically with a pop-up screen in the dashboard.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Cruise Control:

Standard feature on most trims.

Onstar:

Optional OnStar communication system available on many models.

Bluetooth:

Bluetooth integration for mobile phones was an option on later models within this generation, but may not be standard on all 2008 vehicles.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Consult manual for specific conditions.

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., iridium).

Timing Belt Chain:

The 2.0L B207 engines use a timing chain, which generally requires no scheduled replacement unless issues arise. The 2.8L V6 also uses a timing chain.

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 0W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil (GM-LL-A-025 or equivalent approved by Saab)

Coolant Spec:

GM Dex-Cool (Orange) or equivalent silicate-free long-life coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron VI (GM 5L40-E, GM 6L50)

Common Problems:

Ignition coil failure (black 'pencil coil'), DIC (Driver Information Center) pixelation/failure, Eibach spring failure (especially rear), oil leaks (valve cover, oil pan), turbocharger issues (less common than ignition coils), ABS/ESP sensor faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Saab Origins:

Founded in 1937 by the Swedish aircraft manufacturer Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget.

9-3 Development:

The second generation 9-3 (introduced for the 2003 model year) was based on the GM Epsilon platform. It was a significant departure from the previous Viggen-inspired design and offered in Sedan, SportCombi (wagon), and Convertible body styles.

Manufacturing Location:

Trollhättan, Sweden

Production Years 2Nd Gen:

2003-2011

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

The Saab 9-3 consistently received good safety ratings from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS, contributing to its reputation as a safe vehicle.