2003 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 133
2003 Saab 9-3 Manual
Page 133 highlights
Starting and driving 133 Manual transmission Clutch interlock To start the car, the clutch pedal must be depressed. When changing gear, fully depress the clutch pedal and then release it smoothly. It is inadvisable to drive with your hand resting on the gear lever, as this can increase the wear on the gearbox. There are two manual gearbox versions: a 5-speed gearbox and a 6-speed gearbox. Reverse gear on the 6-speed gearbox is to the left of 1st gear. Raise the ring under the gear knob to engage reverse. Before reverse (R) can be engaged, you must lift the ring underneath the gear knob. Gear positions, 5-speed Gear positions, 6-speed It is not necessary or recommended to follow the shift-up recommendations in all driving conditions, for example, when driving in heavy urban traffic or steep downhill grades. However, shifting with the light should result in improved fuel economy. Therefore, for reduced fuel consumption and better energy conservation, you should make a habit of shifting before or when the shift-up light comes on. NOTICE When reverse gear is to be engaged, the car must be at a standstill with the accelerator fully released. Shift up indicator (U.S. models only) Cars equipped with a manual transmission have a "Shift-up" light on the instrument panel. The light begins to work after the vehicle is warmed up and provides you with a good indication when to shift to a higher gear.