Positioning:
Premium compact/mid-size car with a focus on safety and unique design
Competitors 1996:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Volvo S40/V40
Saab Philosophy:
Emphasis on Scandinavian design, pilot-inspired interiors, and safety innovations.
Ng900 Development:
Redesigned from the ground up, moving away from the older Saab 900 platform.
Digital Advantage:
More convenient and less expensive than traditional printed manuals.
Engine:
Yes (Diagnosis, repair, overhaul)
Transmission:
Yes (Diagnosis, repair, overhaul - manual and automatic)
Brakes:
Yes (Hydraulics, ABS, pad/rotor replacement, service)
Suspension:
Yes (Front and rear suspension components, alignment, shocks/struts)
Steering:
Yes (Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods)
Electrical System:
Yes (Wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostics)
HVAC:
Yes (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service and repair)
Body And Frame:
Yes (Body panel repair, trim, glass replacement)
Fuel System:
Yes (Fuel pump, injectors, lines, tank service)
Exhaust System:
Yes (Catalytic converter, muffler, pipes, mounting)
Cooling System:
Yes (Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications)
Ignition System:
Yes (Spark plugs, coils, ignition timing)
Emissions Control:
Yes (Component function and testing)
Safety Systems:
Yes (Airbags, seat belts, ABS)
Maintenance:
Yes (Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements)
Troubleshooting:
Yes (Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults)
Repair:
Yes (Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components)
Overhaul:
Yes (Engine and transmission rebuild procedures)
Replacement:
Yes (Component replacement for brakes, suspension, engine parts, etc.)
Adjustment:
Yes (e.g., parking brake adjustment, door alignment)
Diagnosis:
Yes (Systematic fault finding)
Wiring Diagrams:
Yes (Comprehensive electrical schematics)
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex diagnostics)
Diagnostic Tools:
Details required diagnostic tools and procedures
Torque Specifications:
Yes (All critical torque values provided)
Tolerances:
Yes (Component clearances and wear tolerances)
Special Tools:
Identifies specific Saab special tools where applicable
Software Compatibility:
PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet (requires internet and web browser)
Print Quality Digital:
High-resolution digital content, easily readable
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital)
Access Duration:
1 Year (with discounts for renewal)
Licensing:
Officially Licensed, derived from OE materials
Engine Code Gasoline:
B234L (2.3L) / B204L (2.0L Turbo) / B204E (2.0L Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC
Displacement 2 0L:
1985 cc (121.1 cu in)
Horsepower 2 0L Na:
130 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2 0L Na:
180 Nm @ 4300 rpm (approx.)
Displacement 2 3L:
2290 cc (139.7 cu in)
Horsepower 2 3L:
150 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2 3L:
210 Nm @ 4300 rpm (approx.)
Turbocharger Option:
Yes (2.0L Turbocharged models - Aero, SE Turbo)
Horsepower 2 0L Turbo:
185 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2 0L Turbo:
263 Nm @ 2100 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating varies by engine variant, consult manual for specifics)
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (with Saab Sentronic system)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in the manual for both transmission types.
Transmission Fluid Spec Auto:
Saab Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent DEXRON III specification (verify in manual).
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
Manual Transmission Fluid, SAE 75W-90 GL-4 or GL-5 (verify in manual).
Body Styles:
3-door Hatchback, 5-door Hatchback, 2-door Convertible
Length:
Approx. 4610 mm (Hatchback)
Height:
Approx. 1420 mm (Hatchback)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1350-1450 kg (Varies by model and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Consult manual for specific GVWR
NHTSA Ratings:
Saab vehicles of this era were recognized for strong safety performance, particularly in frontal impacts. Specific NHTSA ratings for 1996 models may vary, consult official records.
ABS:
Yes (Standard on most models, optional on some trims)
Traction Control:
Available on some turbocharged models (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Saab Safeseat:
Saab's integrated headrests and supportive seating designed for occupant protection.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and body structure, particularly notable on the Convertible.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (verify specific engine variant and oil type in manual).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km), depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium (verify in manual).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SJ or SH (verify specific viscosity and API rating for your engine in the manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant meeting GM 1825M or equivalent (e.g., Saab Blue coolant or compatible). Verify in manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Oil Sludge Build-Up:
Older turbocharged Saabs could be prone to oil sludge if maintenance intervals were neglected. Regular oil changes with correct oil are crucial.
Diaper Diaphragm Failure:
Common issue on some turbo models, leading to loss of turbo boost or rough running.
Ignition Cassette Failure:
The DI (Direct Ignition) cassette can fail, causing misfires or no-start conditions.
HVAC Blend Door Actuators:
Plastic actuators can become brittle and break, affecting temperature control.
Sid Display Failure:
The Saab Information Display (SID) can suffer from pixel degradation or complete failure.
Founding:
Saab Automobile AB founded in 1945 in Trollhättan, Sweden, originally a manufacturer of aircraft.
Ng900 Introduction:
The 'New Generation' 900 (NG900) was introduced for the 1994 model year, replacing the original 'Classic' Saab 900.
Platform Sharing:
NG900 shared its platform with the Opel Vectra B.
Production Location:
Trollhättan, Sweden; Uusikaupunki, Finland (Valmet Automotive).
Ng900 Production Years:
1994-1998