2002 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 175

Starting and driving Recommendations for driving in 175 hilly terrain The following time limits are based on the capacity of the cooling system in warm weather, i.e. approximately 86°F (30°C). Gradient Maximum of hill, % trailer weight, lbs. (kg) 6-7 3330 (1500) 8-9 3330 (1500) 10-15 1890 (850) Maximum duration, minutes Unlimited 15 max. 15 max. It is important to consider the following when driving a car with automatic transmission up long inclines. Use Normal mode when driving with a caravan or trailer on hilly roads. The adaptive gear change pattern function will prevent the transmission overheating. Rises in coolant temperature are indicated by the temperature gauge in the main instrument panel. The following may also occur: • A/C compressor is switched off • Gear change pattern is altered • The CHECK message TRANSMISSION OVERHEATING appears on the SID If TRANSMISSION OVERHEATING appears on the SID, stop the car as soon as it is safe to do so and wait until the message has been extinguished. When driving subsequent to the transmission oil overheating, select either 3rd gear or Drive, whichever will allow the engine to run at 3,000 rpm and maintain the speed of traffic or a safe speed; see page 159. Do not drive continuously with the WINTER mode selected in hilly country when you are towing a trailer, as this will increase fuel consumption and risk overheating the transmission. Driving considerations Always take extra care when towing a trailer, as the car's handling will be different and its braking effect reduced. The trailer's braking system and suspension also have a considerable effect on these characteristics, see also "Driving with a load" page 178. Select position 1 when descending steep hills. The following time limits are based on the capacity of the cooling system in hot weather, i.e. approximately 104°F (40°C). Gradient Maximum of hill, % trailer weight, lbs. (kg) 6-7 2000 (900) 8-9 2000 (900) 10-15 1000 (450) Maximum duration, minutes NOTE If the "Automatic transmission fault indicator" warning comes on, cease towing until the problem has been rectified. Unlimited 15 max. 15 max. WARNING Remember to use engine-braking (selector position 1, 2, or 3) to spare the brakes when you are driving on a long or steep downhill slope. Brake failure can result from overheated brakes!