2004 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 150

150 Starting and driving Fuel (Gasoline Engine) NOTICE The engine control module (ECM) monitoring the engine parameters also stores fault codes. Under certain circumstances, this may cause constant illumination of the Engine malfunction (CHECK ENGINE) lamp , thus indicating a fault that must be checked by your Saab dealer, see page 75. NOTE: always observe the following two measures: • Make sure that the fuel filler cap is screwed on correctly before the engine is started. Screw on the fuel filler cap until you hear a distinct click. Avoid driving with the fuel low level indicator illuminated. The symbol illuminates when less than approximately 2.5 gallons (10 litres) of fuel remains in the tank. Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. Use of gasoline with an octane rating lower than 87 can result in severe engine damage. Damage caused by incorrect fuel being used is not covered under the terms of the New Car Warranty and will be the responsibility of the owner. It is recommended that the gasoline meet specifications which were developed by the American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and endorsed by the Canadian Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Association for better vehicle performance and engine protection. Gasolines meeting the AAMA specification could provide improved driveability and emission control system performance compared to other gasolines. NOTICE Higher concentrations of methanol than listed above, or the use of methanolblended gasoline without suitable cosolvents and corrosion inhibitors, can damage your car's fuel system, leading to the need for repairs which are not covered by Saab's product warranty. In Canada, look for the "Auto Makers' Choice" label on the fuel pump. Be sure the posted octane is at least 87. If the octane is less than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If it's bad enough, it can damage your engine. If you're using fuel rated at 87 octane or higher and you hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. But don't worry if you hear a little pinging noise when you're accelerating or driving up a hill. That's normal, and you don't have to buy a higher octane fuel to get rid of pinging. It's the heavy, constant knock that means you have a problem.