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I agree 110% that ACEA A3 is the ONLY way to go with these oil-abusing turbos, & if I had a brand-spankin'-new 9³SS I'd only run M1 5W-40 or 15W-50 in it (depending on the minimum low temp the oil would see throughout the year). Unfortunately, Saab no longer specifies this ACEA rating as recommended, but instead falls back on the new GM enviro-spec of GM-LL-A-025. This is not a bad spec, but it's simply a "length of use" & "mpg" spec & has no discernible High Temperature/High Shear protection callout. Even Saab's own 0W-30 full syn is only ACEA A5 rated, which falls in between the lowest-durability A1 rating & highest-durability A3 rating.
The REQUIRED oil is one that meets the GM-LL spec IF you're relying on the on-board Oil Life Monitor to track your oil changes. The real questions are:
1) Will you be following the Oil Life Monitor?
2) Do you care if you meet the strict interpretation of the oil requirements for warranty purposes?
If "No" to #1, then #2 is moot because the new spec's only required for using the OLM. Use as much M1 5W-30 as you want. It's an excellent oil & is fine for your climate.
If "Yes" to #1 but "No" to #2, then any oil which will provide superior cleanliness & protection for up to two yrs/15k mi of turbo abuse will fill the bill. Over the years, GM's OLM has proven to be perfectly programmed; I wouldn't hesitate relying on it when using the best synthetic oils & wish I could easily add one to my '99 9³. Again, my first choices for the Saab turbo engine would be either M1 5W-40 or 15W-50. But be prepared fight GM/Saab if you have ANY engine related problems, oil or otherwise, until the point when you can prove oil had nothing to do with your problem. (I'm not saying this WILL happen, just to be prepared for it.)
If "Yes" to both #1 & #2, then only oils meeting the new GM-LL-A-025 spec should be used during your warranty period. AFAIK, only Saab 0W-30, M1 0W-40 & Amsoil 5W-40 meet the spec here in North America.
posted by 146.82.1...
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