1988 Saab 900 Turbo Owners Manual

The 1988 Saab 900 Turbo is a front-wheel drive sports sedan featuring a 2.0L turbocharged 16-valve engine, 5-speed manual transmission, advanced safety systems including crumple zones and anti-lock brakes, ergonomic cockpit design, climate control system, power windows and mirrors, premium audio system, and Saab's signature aircraft-inspired engineering. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Starting & Driving 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls & Features 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Turbo System Operation 8. Safety Systems 9. Care & Storage 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: Turbocharged 2.0L engine, 5-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive, safety cage construction, ergonomic driver cockpit, climate control system.

Feature	Description
Engine	2.0L 16-valve turbocharged inline-4
Transmission	5-speed manual with overdrive
Drivetrain	Front-wheel drive
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection with turbo
Brakes	Power-assisted discs with ABS
Safety	Reinforced safety cage with crumple zones
Interior	Ergonomic cockpit with aircraft-inspired design
Climate Control	Automatic temperature control system
Audio System	AM/FM stereo cassette with premium speakers
Power Features	Power windows, mirrors, and sunroof

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with the Saab 900 Turbo's comprehensive instrument cluster and controls.

Speedometer and tachometer: Primary gauges with turbo boost indicator
Warning lights: Check engine, brake system, oil pressure, battery
Climate controls: Automatic temperature control with defrost settings
Audio system: AM/FM stereo cassette with balance/fader controls
Lighting controls: Headlight switch with fog light option

WARNING! Always monitor warning lights while driving. Pull over safely if any red warning lights illuminate.

Starting & Driving

Proper starting procedure and driving techniques for optimal performance.

Cold starts: Allow engine to idle for 30 seconds before driving
Turbo operation: Avoid high boost until engine reaches operating temperature
Shifting: Smooth clutch engagement with precise gear changes
Braking: Progressive pedal pressure with ABS activation when needed
Fuel: Use premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher)

CAUTION! Allow turbo to cool down after hard driving by idling for 1-2 minutes before shutdown.

Technical Specifications

Engine: 2.0L DOHC 16-valve turbocharged inline-4
Horsepower: 160 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque: 188 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Fuel Capacity: 16.4 gallons
Brakes: Ventilated front discs, solid rear discs with ABS
Suspension: Independent front, beam axle rear
Tires: 195/60R15 all-season radial
Curb Weight: 2,800 lbs

Controls & Features

Master the unique Saab 900 Turbo controls and special features.

Ignition: Floor-mounted between front seats with reverse gear lockout.

Heated Seats: Front seat heating controls on center console.

Sunroof: Power sliding glass sunroof with tilt function.

Lighting: Headlight wipers, fog lights, and automatic interior delay.

Storage: Lockable glove compartment, center console, and door pockets.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Oil changes: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Spark plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
Timing belt: Replace every 60,000 miles
Brake fluid: Flush every 2 years
Coolant: Replace every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Air filter: Replace every 15,000 miles
Fuel filter: Replace every 30,000 miles

Tip: Use only Saab-approved parts and fluids for optimal performance.

Turbo System Operation

Understanding and operating the turbocharger system properly.

Boost gauge: Monitor turbo pressure during acceleration
Warm-up: Allow oil to circulate before hard acceleration
Cool-down: Idle before shutdown to prevent turbo damage
Boost levels: Maximum boost indicated by red zone on gauge
Maintenance: Regular oil changes critical for turbo longevity
Intercooler: Air-to-air intercooler reduces intake temperatures
Wastegate: Regulates maximum boost pressure
Performance: Smooth throttle application for optimal response

WARNING! Never shut off engine immediately after hard driving. Allow 1-2 minutes of idling.

Safety Systems

Saab's comprehensive safety features and proper usage.

Safety Cage: Reinforced passenger compartment with crumple zones. ABS: Anti-lock braking system prevents wheel lockup. Seatbelts: 3-point inertia reel belts front and rear. Headlights: Aerodynamic covers with wiper/washer system. Child Safety: Rear door child locks and proper child seat installation.

Care & Storage

Proper cleaning and storage procedures to maintain your Saab.

Exterior: Wash with mild soap, wax regularly. Interior: Vacuum carpets, clean leather with approved products. Storage: Use fuel stabilizer, disconnect battery for long-term storage.

CAUTION! Avoid automatic car washes with harsh brushes that may damage paint and trim.

Warranty Information

New Vehicle Limited Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles. Powertrain Limited Warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles. Corrosion Perforation Limited Warranty: 6 years/unlimited miles. For warranty service, contact authorized Saab dealership. Keep all maintenance records for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, ignition, or battery	Check fuel level, battery connections, spark plugs
Turbo lag	Boost leak or wastegate	Inspect intercooler hoses, wastegate operation
Poor fuel economy	Driving habits or maintenance	Check air filter, tire pressure, driving style
Brake vibration	Warped rotors or alignment	Inspect brake rotors, wheel balance
Electrical issues	Battery or alternator	Test battery voltage, alternator output

Service: Contact authorized Saab dealership for professional diagnosis and repair.

Emergency: Saab Roadside Assistance: 1-800-955-9007