Date: Fri, 16 Apr 2004 13:14:56 -0400 From: "Fred W." <Fred.Willsnospampam myrealbox.com> Subject: Re: Maintenance
"Dan in Connecticut" <dwolframnospamardcurran.com> wrote in message news:98e48760.0404160639.61e86c2enospaming.google.com... > Hi folks, I have been lurking about the board for a couple of weeks > since I started to research my next vehicle purchase. I have narrowed > my choice to a 2000 9-3. Prices seem to be within the my range and I > like the look of the car. I am going to test drive one this weekend, > from everything I have read I expect to be thrilled. I currently > drive a 3/4 ton dodge ram...enough said on that. My question is > regarding the scheduled maintenance of the timing belt/chain (I think > it is a belt). All the cars I have looked at seem to be just under > the 60k mile mark. I half expect that these cars are appoarching some > costly sheduled maintenace. Any info on what to expect as far as > maintenance for a 2000 with 60K miles would be appreciated (if you > have any idea on costs would also be useful). Additionally, please > forward any suggestions/recommendation/warnings as to what to look out > for during my search. Thanks to all. Dan Hey Dan, 9-3's with 4 cylinder engines have a chain. No schedule to replace it ever. Yes, there is a major scheduled service that occurs at 60k miles, but the main reason you see so many at that mileage is because that is about where a 4 year old car should be, mileage-wise. That said, if you buy one right at or near the 60k mark, expect that the PO has not performed this service, as it is fairly expensive. You can call local SAAB stealers or independant garages and they will quote you for the job. Seems like I remember it being about $600-700 at the local dealership here. But if you are handy, it is all fairly easy stuff to do (filters, oil change, coolant change, flush brake lines, etc.) and you can save a bundle doing it yourself. Here's what's on the recommended list at 60k Preliminary: Check exterior lights Check / replace windshield wipers Engine Compartment: cold Replace spark plugs (NGK PFR 7H-10 Gap=1.0mm torque = 19 lb/ft)) Replace air filter (SAAB P/N 4876074) Check power steering fluid level (CHF-11S) Check windshield washer fluid level Replace engine drive-belt and check tensioner function. (Conti 6 PK 2345 mm) Inspect evaporative control system including filler cap, vapor lines and charcoal can Check crankcase ventilation and vacuum lines Check battery state of charge and electrolyte level. Clean terminals if required Change cabin air filter Flush cooling system and refill with SAAB coolant Engine Compartment: warm engine Change Engine Oil and Filter (Mobile 1 5W30 - 4.2 qts) Chassis: Check operation of parking brake Check manual gearbox fluid level (SAAB Synthetic Manual Gearbox Oil ) Replace fuel filter Check fuel system including tank for leaks Lubricate door hinges, stops and locks and check operation Chassis: (wheels off) Rotate tires. Inspect tires for uneven wear. Flush / Fill Brake fluid (DOT4 only) Check brake pad thickness Check brake hoses and lines Check ball joint clearances, outer and inner steering joints and rubber boots Inspect shock absorbers and bushings for tightness and condition. Inspect inner and outer drive shaft joint boots Inspect the exhaust system and mounting Check tires and tire pressure (33psi front and back) Check spare tire and pressure (50 psi) Check Front Wheel Toe-in (1.5mm +/- .5mm measured on rim) Final: Check SRS warning lamp, visual inspection Check condition and operation of seat belts Reset TIME FOR SERVICE Indicator (press clear for >8 sec until "SERVICE") Carry out road test By the way... I am selling mine. It's a 2000 9-3SE Convertible. You can check it out if you want at: http://users.adelphia.net/~fredwills/ Of course, all of the above stuff has already been done on mine... ;-) -Fred W
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
