Driving With A Roof Rack Load; Driving With A Load - Saab 9-5 Owner's Manual

95_US_MY09.book Page 179 Tuesday, April 15, 2008 11:03 AM
Driving with a roof rack
load
WARNING
• A roof load will affect the car's center
of gravity and aerodynamics. Be
aware of this when cornering and driv-
ing in crosswinds.
• Suit your speed to the prevailing con-
ditions.
• Due to higher aerodynamic drag, fuel
economy may suffer when driving with
a roof rack.
The maximum permissible roof load is
220 lbs. (100 kg).
Note that the roof load is included in the
car's maximum permissible load (see
page 258).
Strong, sturdy roof carriers 3 designed spe-
cially for the car are available from your
Saab dealer. Always secure the roof load
safely.

Driving with a load

The driving characteristics of the car are
affected by the way it is loaded.
• Place heavy loads as far forward and as
low as possible in the trunk.
• Secure the load to the tie downs, see
page 131.
• The load should be such that the car´s
total weight or axle weight are not
exceeded, see page 258.
• Heavy loads mean that the car's center of
gravity is further back. As a result, the car
will sway more during evasive steering.
• Never exceed the permissible load in the
roof box 3, even if there is room for more.
• Ensure that the tire pressure is correct –
slight overinflation is preferable to under-
inflation.
• The braking distance of a loaded car is
always greater. Keep your distance from
the vehicle in front.
• Roof loads can negatively affect tele-
communication.
Tire pressure, see page 263.
Additional information on tires, see page
220.
Starting and driving 179