2005 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 208

206 Car care NOTICE If the cooling system needs topping up, mix the antifreeze with the appropriate quantity of drinking water or distilled water before adding it to the system. If undiluted antifreeze is added, the engine could still freeze and be damaged. This is because the antifreeze will not mix properly with the coolant before the thermostat has opened to allow full circulation. Note: If incorrect coolant is used or added, the lifetime properties will be affected. Even if the coolant is flushed from the system and replaced with life-time coolant, life-time properties are no longer retained and the coolant must then be drained and replaced at regular intervals. Brake/clutch fluid and brake pads WARNING Brake fluid deteriorates as it becomes old. Because it is hygroscopic, it absorbs water from the air and, in time, could allow vapor to form in the brake system, thus reducing its performance. It is therefore important that brake fluid be changed regularly, as specified in the service program. Brake fluid reservoir The brake fluid level will fall somewhat as the brake pads wear. The MAX level in the reservoir corresponds to the amount of brake fluid required with new brake pads. If the fall in fluid level is moderate, due to normal brake pad wear, topping up is not necessary. If the brake fluid should require changing, this must be carried out at a Saab dealer. Checking Brake fluid should be changed according to the service program. Refer to the Warranty and Service Book. The brake and clutch fluid reservoir is transparent to facilitate checking of the fluid level. The fluid level should lie between the MAX and MIN marks. If the level drops too low, the following message appears on the SID: Brake fluid level low. Make a safe stop. Contact Saab dealer. Top up as necessary with DOT 4 brake fluid. Do not use DOT 5 fluid. Use only new brake fluid from a sealed container.