Hi, I just purchased my first Saab. It is a 2002 9-5 Linear sedan with about 70k miles. I love the car, however, the second day I owned it I started having a couple of issues with it. I hope you all can give me some insight.
I purchased the car in Phoenix, AZ and headed for Denver, CO straight from the dealer's lot. It ran like a top until the end of the first day, then when I stopped for fuel, the car would turn over, but wouldn't start until the 2nd or 3rd attempt. By the beginning of the
2nd day, I would have to wait 10 or 15 minutes, with the hood open, before the car would start. By the time I was 50 miles out of Denver, the check engine light came on and I had to wait about 40 minutes until the car would start. All other gauges, idiot lights and messages were normal. The oil, gas, transmission, and radiator fluids were fresh and full. Temp is completely normal, engine purrs like a kitten and once it starts, the car runs like a top.I called a Saab dealer in Denver to make an appointment to have it checked, and to see if I needed to have it towed in the rest of the way (due to the check engine light). The service tech I spoke with didn't address the issue of the car not starting, but did insist that one fill up with Regular unleaded gasoline, rather than the Premium, had probably done considerable damage to my engine.
Before I take it in on Monday, I would like to hear any opinions about why the car isn't starting correctly and get your opinions about the possibility of damage to the engine. (I read an article prior to purchase that Saabs could run on any grade of fuel, as the engine senses engine knock and adjusts accordingly.)
I contacted the dealer in Phoenix (Mercedes Benz dealer) and his service department felt the starting issue has to do with the change in altitude and that it only needs an adjustment to the oxygen/fuel ratio.
Again, I would be most grateful for any advice on sorting this all out. Thanks