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I have a US spec 99 9-3S. I wound up getting a ecu upgrade from Hirsch Performance in St. Gallen, Switzerland. I went there because it is somewhat local to me and although they are a bit expensive, they have a pretty good reputation around here.
ECU upgrades are a good way to go if you want more power and torque. My car went from 192 hp with a Saab sport exhaust and intake mods, to 227 hp with the Hirsch ECU installed. Everyday gas mileage improved about 2 or 3 mpg if I don't use a heavy foot too much. My top speed was pulled out of the program so I can now go as fast as traffic will allow. I saw 155+ briefly on the way home from Hirsch!
As for warranty, everything should be covered as long as the dealer cannot relate the problem to the ECU upgrade. Most reputable ECU tuners do not compromise the durability of the engine. The stock programs are set up for the possibility of an owner putting lower grade gas than required. If you get an upgrade just be sure to get Super Plus or whatever the top grade gas in your area is called. With the upgrade, all of the engine's knock protection and other safety features are maintained. The program is just optimized to take advantage of the better fuel grades and use the turbocharger to its max potential. My program takes my boost to 0.9 bar or 13 psi.
Also, one thing to note, I later had a Viggen spes intercooler installed which brought my power up to 238 hp. I believe your car should come stock with this. One more thing. A cat back exhaust is a very good thing for this type of upgrade as it will aloow more power, but it will also enable the turbo to run cooler which is better for its durability as well. Last thing, check out Dean's list of intake mods. They are pretty easy and will allow an easier breathing turbo also.
I don't know which merchant you should go through but I haven't heard anything bad about ChipCenter or some of the others. Don't be afraid to shop around. Good luck with your upgrades, they are alot of fun!
Eric Burr
99 9-3S
posted by 195.178....
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