2001 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 217

Car care 217 Wheels Alternative wheels and tires If you wish to fit other tires or wheels than those supplied with the car, consult your Saab dealer first as to the possibilities available. Wheels/tires combinations that are not approved by Saab can negatively affect the car´s directional stability, steering and braking in both wet and dry conditions. Do not assume that a wheel/tire combination will function properly just because it will bolt on. Tire pressure NOTE For wide wheels and/or low-profile tires, bear in mind the following: • Tires and wheels can be damaged in potholes etc. • Springs, shock absorbers and wheel bearings can be overloaded. • The wheels can come into contact with chassis and body components. • The speed and load limits for the tires must not be exceeded; see page 218. • Wheels larger than 17" must not be fitted on the Saab 9-3. For Viggen models the wheel should not be larger than 17". The maximum permissible offset for the 9-3 is 49 mm and for the Viggen 42 mm. • Wheels smaller than 16" must not be fitted on Viggen models. Fitting a smaller size wheel on a Viggen is not possible due to the size of the brake discs. The wheels and tires have been carefully matched to the characteristics of the car and play a key role in its outstanding roadholding and handling. NOTE Check the tire pressures at least once per month. Underinflation is the main cause of: • Tires wearing out prematurely. • Damage to the sidewalls. • Damage to the wheels. Tires need to be inflated to suit the load carried and the maximum speed the car will be driven (see the recommended tire pressures on the back cover). Tire pressure label, see page 253. Note that all values apply to cold tires. For tires with an aspect ratio less than /60, increase the tire pressure by 3 psi (20 kPa) for rough roads with potholes to minimize the risk of rim damage. Never reduce the pressure of a hot tire. If the tires are hot when you check them, only increase the pressure, if necessary. Soft tires will cause faster wear than over-pressurized tires. They also increase fuel consumption. If a valve is leaking, simply unscrew it and fit a new one. Important! Remember to adjust the tire pressures if you change the load in the car or intend to cruise at a substantially higher or lower speed than normal.