194 Car care and technical information

Engine

The 2.3-liter model is a transverse, 4-cylin- der in-line engine with twin overhead cam- shafts and 4 valves per cylinder.

This engine is equipped with balance shafts that reduce engine vibration to a minimum.

The balance shafts are chain driven and rotate at twice the speed of the crankshaft.

They produce forces and torques that are opposed to those generated by the pistons and connecting rods, an effect that occurs twice for each revolution of the engine. Engine noise is also reduced as the counter-rotating shafts counteract the vibra- tion from the moving parts of the engine.

The transmission, located on the right (viewed from the front), is integrated with the engine. All models have front-wheel drive.

IB601

Balance shafts

Engine oil

Checking the oil level

Check the engine-oil level regularly. This should be done after the engine has been run to normal temperature and then allowed to cool for 2–5 minutes, with the car stand- ing on level ground. Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean before checking the level.

The oil level must not be allowed to drop below the MIN mark on the dipstick, nor should oil be filled beyond the MAX mark, as this can lead to excessive oil consumption.

The distance between the MIN and MAX marks on the dipstick corresponds to a volume of approximately 1.05 qts (1 liter).

When necessary, add oil of the recom- mended grade via the dipstick tube.

Recommended oil grade, see page 261.

NOTICE

Do not operate the engine with a low oil level.

Change engine oil and oil filter as pre- scribed in the service programme.

Only use the recommended oil type.

Follow the three points listed above to avoid severe engine damage.

More frequent oil changes are recom- mended if your vehicle is operated under certain conditions, see page 252.

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Saab 2007 owner manual Engine oil, Checking the oil level, Balance shafts, Recommended oil grade, see