General Test Methods

REMEMBER WHEN FAULT TRACING

1. ISAT adapter SDA Mk II must always be connected to the Intelligent Saab Tester (ISAT) scan tool.

2. Up to M1995 the data link connector and/or diagnostic socket is located under the right-hand front seat. In -M1994 cars there are two data link connectors (one green and one black) while M1995- cars have only one (green). M1996 and later cars have one data link connector located under the steering wheel.

3. Read and note diagnostic trouble codes stored in all systems before the battery and the control module are disconnected.

4. If no communication can be achieved between the ISAT scan tool and the control module, first check that the fuses are intact and that there is supply voltage to the fuses.
Then check the leads between the control module and the data link connector.

5. Also check that the voltage supply and the ground to the data link connector are correct and that the connector pins are not damaged and are secure.

6. There are lists of diagnostic trouble codes in each section.

IMPORTANT: Diagnostic trouble codes should be used only for purposes of diagnosing faults. It is not absolutely certain that they indicate a faulty component.

7. To avoid damage to control modules and components, the ignition switch must be OFF when the BOB is connected or connectors unplugged.

8. Check that the control module grounding connections and supply voltages are correct.

9. It could sometimes be necessary to unplug connectors to check that contacts and pins are not damaged and are correctly fitted.
Reconnect all connectors and clear all diagnostic trouble codes. If possible, start/drive the car and check it the fault(s) remain.
If a faulty contact is suspected, use contact spray KONTAKT 61 (part No. 45-30 04 520) on the female pins and connector.

IMPORTANT: Contact spray or grease must not be used on the oxygen sensor connectors.

10. Where indicated, 12 V is to be regarded as a level and not as an absolute value. Test readings may be directly proportional to battery voltage but 0.5-1.5 V may be lost due to an internal voltage drop in the control module's driver stage.

11. Where indicated, 0 V is to be regarded as a level and not as an absolute value. Due to an internal voltage drop in the control module's driver stage, measurements taken between the control module pins and ground could produce a reading of about 0.5-1.5 V, although this is given as 0 V in "Readings, control module connections".

12. Never switch from one unit to another (for example from volts, via amps to ohms) on the meter, without first having unplugged the instrument test leads.

13. Resistance readings should always be taken with the ignition at OFF.

IMPORTANT: After checking, always clear the fault memory using the command "CLEAR FAULT CODES". All systems can be cleared using the command "CLEAR ALL".