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To: All Saab Dealers
Attention: Saab Sales Managers
Saab Service Managers
From: Abe Buchbinder
Reference: Engine failures due to low octane fuel available
in high-Altitude areas
The Owner's Manuals for both 9-3 and 9-5 advise the owner
that their Saab can be driven on fuel grade AON 87-93. In most parts of the
country, this is not a problem as typically 87 octane fuel is the lowest grade
available. However, in certain high-altitude areas, (above 5,000 feet) lower
octane fuel is available. In these areas, the "regular" type of fuel
may be 85 octane or lower.
While this low octane fuel may be sufficient to run in low
compression naturally-aspirated engines at these higher altitudes, Saab's turbocharged
engines with highly optimized engine management systems can sustain severe engine
damage if this low-grade fuel is used. Typically an owner may complain of loss
of power, severe detonation and higher than normal engine operating temperature.
If the driver continues to operate their Saab under these
conditions, the engine may die or seize. Upon disassembly, deterioration of
tops of pistons can be seen with scoring of the cylinder walls also evident.
Failures caused by improper fuel are
not covered under the terms of the new-car warranty. If such a condition is
encountered, your District Aftersales Manager must be contacted.
We ask that during the Dedicated Delivery process as well
as during normal service visits that owners be advised that they pay attention
to the grade of fuel during refueling, particularly when operating in high-altitude
areas and care be taken not to use lower than 87 octane fuel.
Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,
Abe Buchbinder
Director, Service & Parts
Saab Cars USA, Inc.