2009 Saab 9-5 Owner's Manual - Page 179

95_US_MY09.book Page 179 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 11:03 AM Starting and driving 179 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. • Suit your speed to the prevailing conditions. • Due to higher aerodynamic 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 is included in the car's maximum permissible load (see page 258). Strong, sturdy roof carriers 3 designed specially for the car are available from your Saab dealer. Always secure the roof load safely. Driving with a load The driving characteristics of the car are affected by the way it is loaded. • Place heavy loads as far forward and as low as possible in the trunk. • Secure the load to the tie downs, see page 131. • The load should be such that the car´s total weight or axle weight are not exceeded, see page 258. • 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 in the roof box 3, even if there is room for more. • Ensure that the tire pressure is correct - slight overinflation is preferable to underinflation. • The braking distance of a loaded car is always greater. Keep your distance from the vehicle in front. • Roof loads can negatively affect telecommunication. Tire pressure, see page 263. Additional information on tires, see page 220.