2009 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 192

93_US_MY09.book Page 192 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10:30 AM 192 Starting and driving Driving with a roof rack load WARNING • A roof load will affect the car's center of gravity and aerodynamics. Be aware of this when cornering and driving in crosswinds. • Adjust your speed to the prevailing conditions. • Due to higher aerodynamics drag, fuel economy may suffer when driving with a roof rack. The maximum permissible roof load is 220 lbs. (100 kg). Note that the roof load must be included in the car's maximum permissible payload and axle load. Strong, sturdy roof carriers designed specially for your car are available from your Saab dealer. Always secure roof loads securely. Driving with a load The handling characteristics are affected by how the car is loaded. • The braking distance of a loaded car is always greater. Keep your distance from the vehicle in front. • Do not exceed the car's permissible gross vehicle weight or axle load (see page 284). • Roof loads can negatively affect telecommunication. For further information on tires see page 240. NOTICE • Place the heaviest load as far forward and as low as possible in the trunk. • Secure the load to the lashing eyes (see page 139). • Heavy loads mean that the car's center of gravity is further back. As a result, the car will sway more during evasive steering. • Never exceed the permissible load of the roof box, even if there is room for more. • Ensure that the tire pressure is correct - slight overinflation is preferable to underinflation.