2003 Saab 9-5 Owner's Manual - Page 183

Starting and driving Use Normal mode when driving with a trailer or trailer on hilly roads. The adaptive gear change pattern function will prevent the transmission from overheating. Rises in coolant temperature are indicated by the temperature gauge in the main instrument panel. The following can also occur: • the A/C-compressor can be shut off • the gear-change pattern is changed • the CHECK message TRANSMISSION OVERHEATING can appear on the SID If TRANSMISSION OVERHEATING appears on the SID, stop the car as soon as it is safe to do so, switch off the engine and open the hood. Wait several minutes and then turn on the ignition to check that the message has been extinguished. When continuing your journey, select manual mode (M) and a gear in which the engine speed is about 3,000 rpm (see page 168). 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. 183 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 187. If the car has automatic transmission, select position D when ascending steep hills. This ensures that the adaptive gear change patterns are operational, see page 169. Use position D or L for steep descents. NOTICE If the "Automatic transmission, fault indicator" indicator comes on, cease towing until the problem has been rectified. WARNING Remember to use engine-braking (selector position D or L) to spare the brakes when you are driving on a long or steep downhill slope. Brake failure can result from overheated brakes!