2005 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 265

Customer Assistance and Information Engine oil and filter changes Changing the engine oil and filter is required at every service point. Use only a Saab approved long-life oil filter and engine oils meeting the SAE viscosity ratings and API service classifications stated in the "Technical data" section of this Owner's Manual. The use of extra additives in the oil is not necessary and is not recommended, and may be harmful to turbochargers. More frequent oil changes are recommended if your vehicle is operated under any of the following conditions: • Most trips are less than 5-10 miles (8- 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing. • Most trips include extensive idling (frequent stop-and-go traffic). • Most trips are through dusty areas (such as construction zones). • If the vehicle is used for delivery service, police, taxi or other commercial applications. If your driving habits match this description, have the engine oil and filter changed inbetween normal services. These conditions cause the engine oil to break down faster. The Warranties and Service Record Booklet has provisions to record extra oil changes. 263 Service record retention It is the owner's responsibility to retain service records. If possible, you should keep copies of all shop work orders for all service and repairs, whenever performed. As indicated in the new car and emission control system warranties, it is important to document that all necessary maintenance has been done. HOW THE SERVICE RECORD IS ORGANIZED The service record is comprised of a series of coupons on which to record services as they are performed. There are additional coupons for documenting extra engine oil and filter changes, extra automatic transmission fluid services necessary for severe service conditions, and brake fluid changes. HOW TO USE THE SERVICE RECORD COUPONS When the car is brought to a Saab dealer for scheduled maintenance, present the Warranties & Service Record Booklet to the service manager. When the technician has completed the service, the technician will sign the maintenance record. The person responsible for quality assurance at the dealership will also sign and stamp the record with the dealer identification stamp. Service costs Dealer pricing practices and labor for service work vary. Saab's recommended service times for each service point do not include the labor required to replace wear items, such as wiper blades, brake pads or tires. Nor is labor to perform other service or repairs found to be necessary as a result of the inspections included in these times. Additional labor and parts will be charged for such work when necessary, except as covered under an applicable Saab warranty or any optional extended service contract. Transmission fluid changes or suspension alignment, when necessary, are also additional. Dealer charges for general shop material, regulated hazardous waste removal, recycling expenses or other operation costs may also be applied to service and repair invoices and are apt to vary by dealer and location.