2003 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 126

126 Starting and driving If the diagnosis function detects a fault in the engine management system, the light "Engine malfunction (CHECK ENGINE)" in the instrument panel will come on (see page 55). Have the car checked at a Saab dealer as soon as possible. The following message is shown on the SID: Reduced engine power. Contact Saab dealer. NOTICE • If the engine sounds strange there is a malfunction. Contact a Saab dealer immediately. • The use of fuel with too low an octane rating can cause serious engine damage. Important considarations with catalytic converters The catalytic converter is an emission control device incorporated in the car's exhaust system. It consists of a metal canister with a honeycomb insert, the cells of which have walls coated in a catalytic layer (precious metal alloy). Limp-home The engine management system has a diagnostic feature that checks a number of internal functions. If a fault is detected in the throttle valve, the engine management system will set the throttle system to the limp-home mode. This means: • idling control will be poor (uneven idling since regulated by ignition and fuel supply) • engine performance will be reduced • the cruise control will not function • the capacity of the A/C compressor will be limited. NOTICE Use only unleaded gasoline. Leaded gasoline is detrimental to the catalyst and oxygen sensor and will seriously impair the function of the catalytic converter. To ensure that the catalytic converter continues to function properly, and also to avoid damage to the converter and its associated components, the following points must be observed: NOTICE If "Engine malfunction (CHECK ENGINE)" warning light starts to flash (indicating that the engine is misfiring and the catalytic converter can be damaged), ease off the accelerator slightly. The light should go out or start to shine constantly. If the light continues to flash despite easing off the accelerator, you may continue to drive the car but at the minimum throttle permitted by the current traffic situation. Have the car checked as soon as possible at a Saab dealer.