Saab 9-3 Convertible M2003, Owner'S Manual

Page: 166 / 256

166 Starting and driving
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.
• The load should be such that the car´s
total weight or axle weight are not
exceeded, see page 226.
• Heavy loads mean that the car’s center of
gravity is further back. As a result, the car
will sway more during evasive steering.
• Ensure that the tire pressure is correct –
slight overinflation is preferable to under-
inflation.
• The braking distance of a loaded car is
always greater. Keep your distance from
the vehicle in front.
Tire pressure, see page 200 and back
cover.
Tires
The tire pressure should match the current
load and speed of the car; see page 234 or
the tire pressure label on
page 235.
The tire pressures given apply to
cold tires,
that is tires that are the same temperature
as the outside air temperature.
The tire pressure increases as the tires
become warm (e.g. during highway driving)
with approximately 0.3 bar (4 psi). When
the temperature of the tires changes by 50°
(10°C), the tire pressure will change 0.1 bar
(2 psi).
Never reduce the pressure of a hot tire. If the
tires are hot when you check them, only
increase the pressure, if necessary.
Underinflated tires wear more quickly than
slightly overinflated tires.
If a valve is leaking, simply unscrew it and fit
a new one.
Important! Remember to adjust the tire
pressures if you change the load in the car
or intend to drive at substantially lower or
higher speeds than normal.
WARNING
Check the tire pressure at least once a
month and before long journeys. Under-
inflation can result in:
• Punctures
• Separation of the tire and tread
• Damage to the sidewalls
• Damage to the rims on poor roads
• Poor handling characteristics
• Premature tire wear
• Increased fuel consumption.
93uC03.book Page 166 Thursday, May 30, 2002 11:36 AM