🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Saab

Model:

9-7x

Year:

2005-2009

Engine Code Primary:

LL8 (4.2L Vortec)

Engine Code Optional 1:

LH6 (5.3L Vortec)

Engine Code Optional 2:

LS2 (6.0L LS2 V8)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Mid-size luxury SUV

Platform Sharing:

Based on the GMT360 platform, shared with Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy, Oldsmobile Bravada, Buick Rainier, and Isuzu Ascender.

Key Competitors:

Acura MDX, BMW X5, Lexus RX, Volvo XC90, Mercedes-Benz ML-Class.

Saab Distinctiveness:

Offered Saab's characteristic Scandinavian design, handling bias, and unique interior features within the SUV segment, aiming for a sportier, more driver-focused experience than its GM counterparts.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service and repair for all imaginable aspects of the Saab 9-7x

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (exact number not specified, but implies dealership-level detail)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine diagnostics, emissions control.

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (likely GM 4L60-E/4L70-E variants), clutch, driveshaft, differentials, axles.

Braking Systems:

Front and rear brakes (disc), ABS system, parking brake, hydraulic systems.

Suspension And Steering Systems:

Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, steering gear, power steering system.

Electrical And Electronic Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, interior electronics, exterior electronics, wiring diagrams.

Body And Chassis Systems:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, structural components, collision repair information.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, fluid level checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid), filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks.

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, exhaust system repair, cooling system repair.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostics, including detailed explanations of system operation, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and pinpoint tests.

Rebuild Procedures:

Complete rebuild procedures for major components like engines and transmissions.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

Likely high-resolution scans or professionally created PDFs, ensuring readability and printability.

Searchability:

PDF format typically allows for text searching, enhancing ease of use.

Printable:

Yes, as a PDF, the manual can be printed for physical reference.

Binding:

Not applicable (digital download)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Displacement:

4.2 Liters (256 cu in)

Engine 1 Configuration:

Inline-6 (LL8 Vortec)

Engine 1 Horsepower:

Approx. 285 hp @ 6000 rpm (may vary slightly by year)

Engine 1 Torque:

Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (may vary slightly by year)

Engine 2 Displacement:

5.3 Liters (325 cu in)

Engine 2 Configuration:

V8 (LH6 Vortec with Active Fuel Management - AFM)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

Approx. 300 hp @ 5200 rpm (may vary slightly by year)

Engine 2 Torque:

Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (may vary slightly by year)

Engine 3 Displacement:

6.0 Liters (364 cu in)

Engine 3 Configuration:

V8 (LS2 V8, from Corvette/GTO)

Engine 3 Horsepower:

Approx. 390 hp @ 6000 rpm (typically for 2006-2007 models)

Engine 3 Torque:

Approx. 400 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (typically for 2006-2007 models)

Fuel Induction:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Engine Management:

GM's Engine Control Module (ECM) with OBD-II diagnostics.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

4-speed automatic transmission (likely GM 4L60-E or 4L70-E)

Transmission Type Opt:

Not applicable, all models were automatic.

Transmission Features:

Driver-selectable modes (e.g., Normal, Sport), Tow/Haul mode (often on specific engines/trims).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-VI (or equivalent specification, consult manual for exact type and quantity).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 193.4 inches (4912 mm)

Width:

Approx. 75.4 inches (1915 mm)

Height:

Approx. 67.3 inches (1709 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 113 inches (2870 mm)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 4,500 lbs (2041 kg) for base models

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 4,800 lbs (2177 kg) for V8 models

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 39.0 cu ft (1104 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 70.1 cu ft (1985 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:

5-star (for models tested, typical of platform)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:

5-star (for models tested, typical of platform)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating Front Seat:

5-star (for models tested, typical of platform)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating Rear Seat:

4-star (for models tested, typical of platform)

IIHS Crash Test Performance:

Good to Acceptable ratings in various categories depending on year and specific test (e.g., Frontal Offset, Side Impact).

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control (TCS)

Stability Control:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - often referred to as Saab Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (S-DTC).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags Front:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Airbags Side:

Front seat-mounted side-impact airbags; available full-length side curtain airbags for front and second-row occupants.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all occupants, active head restraints.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Optional touch-screen navigation system, premium audio systems (e.g., Bose), CD player, satellite radio readiness.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Assistance:

Available rear parking assist sensors.

Auxiliary Input:

Available auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external media devices.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Standard remote keyless entry and engine immobilizer.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (use synthetic oil as recommended).

Air Filter Replacement:

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

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement I6:

Approx. 100,000 miles (use recommended plug type, e.g., ACDelco Professional Iridium)

Spark Plug Replacement V8:

Approx. 100,000 miles (use recommended plug type, e.g., ACDelco Professional Iridium)

Transmission Fluid Service:

Recommended drain and fill every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or sooner under severe service. Full flush is often debated; manual provides specific guidance.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 full synthetic engine oil meeting GM specification GMW3172 (or dexos1 Gen 2 equivalent) is highly recommended for all engines.

Coolant Type:

GM Delco-Green (or equivalent OAT - Organic Acid Technology coolant, typically orange or yellow color). Capacity approx. 16 quarts.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

GM Power Steering Fluid (or Dexron III/VI Automatic Transmission Fluid).

Common Issue 1:

Rear main seal leaks (especially on higher mileage I6 engines).

Common Issue 2:

HVAC blower motor resistor failure, leading to non-functioning fan speeds.

Common Issue 3:

Active Fuel Management (AFM) lifter issues on 5.3L V8 engines (e.g., 'lifter tick').

Common Issue 4:

Water pump failures on the 4.2L I6 engine.

Common Issue 5:

Suspension component wear (e.g., ball joints, control arm bushings).

📚 Vehicle History

Saab Heritage:

Saab Automobile AB, a Swedish manufacturer known for its innovative automotive engineering and aviation roots, was acquired by General Motors in 2000.

9-7X Introduction:

Introduced in 2005 as Saab's first-ever SUV, leveraging GM's extensive SUV development and manufacturing capabilities.

9-7X Positioning:

Positioned as a more refined, European-styled alternative to mainstream GM SUVs, with a focus on comfort and a slightly more engaging driving experience, albeit still body-on-frame.

Production Period:

2005-2009 model years

Production Location:

Moraine, Ohio, USA (part of GM's truck and SUV manufacturing network)

Discontinuation:

Production ceased in 2009 following the financial difficulties and subsequent sale of Saab Automobile AB by GM.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Kbb Consumer Ratings:

Generally received mixed to average ratings from consumer review sites for reliability and overall satisfaction, often scoring lower than segment leaders.

Saab Brand Perception:

While the 9-7x aimed to bring Saab's unique character to the SUV market, it was often criticized for not feeling distinct enough from its GM siblings and for its relatively thirsty engines and less refined ride compared to European competitors.