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M. G.

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M. G., 698d ago

May 28, 2023

Tuning saab 9-5

During my research, I examined various sources, including discussions on Reddit and SaabCentral forums, as well as articles from MotorTrend and TorqueCars. There was a general consensus on popular tuning options and companies for the Saab 9-5. However, opinions varied on the exact modifications necessary and the order in which they should be carried out. Overall, the sources were related to the original query, and I am moderately confident in the recommendations provided.

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Maptun

Maptun

Maptun is a well-regarded tuner for Saab models, including the 9-5. Established in Sweden and specializing in software development, Maptun offers tuning services for all Saab models and has expanded to the US with MaptunUSA. Many users in the Reddit discussions recommended Maptun as a reliable option for Saab tuning. Maptun offers up to seven comprehensive tuning stages for Saabs, ranging from basic ECU reflashes to extreme engine build kits that can exceed 500hp.

BSR and Nordic

Some Saab enthusiasts in the Reddit discussions also recommended BSR and Nordic as alternative tuning options for Saab 9-5. Although details on specific products and services offered by these companies were not as plentiful as Maptun, they were still considered good options for Saab tuning.
Genuine Saab

Genuine Saab

Genuine Saab is another tuner company recommended by Reddit users. They offer various products for performance tuning, such as ECU upgrades. One of the main benefits of Genuine Saab is their easy-to-navigate website that allows users to find suitable tuning options for their specific Saab model.
Taliaferro

Taliaferro

Taliaferro was mentioned as a good tuner company for Saab 9-5s in a Reddit discussion. Although there was not as much information available about Taliaferro compared to Maptun or Genuine Saab, they were still recommended as a credible option for Saab tuning.

Upgrade Recommendations

Many Saab owners suggest upgrading the exhaust system before moving on to tuning the car. A turbo-back exhaust can improve the performance of a stage 1 tune. Additionally, a larger downpipe and exhaust upgrade can enhance the overall tuning process. There is some debate over the necessity of upgrading the air intake, with some users recommending the use of the stock airbox and avoiding "cold air" setups.

Vtuner and Brew City Boost

Vtuner and Brew City Boost were mentioned in a Reddit discussion about tuning a Saab 9-3 Turbo X Sedan’s 2.8L engine. Although not specifically related to the Saab 9-5, these companies received positive reviews for their reliability, customer service, and noticeable power improvements. Brew City Boost, in particular, was highly recommended by a Saab shop owner.

SaabCentral Forum

The SaabCentral forum offers numerous threads and discussions on tuning and performance modifications for Saab 9-5 models. The forum provides information on various upgrades, such as ECU tunes, exhaust systems, turbochargers, suspension, brakes, and engine internals. It is a valuable resource for Saab owners looking for advice and recommendations on tuning their vehicle.

TorqueCars Recommendations

TorqueCars provides a comprehensive guide for tuning the Saab 9-5. They suggest focusing on engine performance modifications, such as remapping, sports exhaust with sports catalyst, and air filter upgrades. They also recommend more conservative tuning for better reliability, driveability, and fuel economy. Additional modifications include upgrading the suspension, improving the air intake system, and gas flowing the head for better air/fuel charge.

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Research

"https://www.torquecars.com/saab/9-5-tuning.php"

Notes:

  • Saab 9-5 can be tuned with modifications to improve engine performance.
  • Engine choices for the tuner include the TiD engined model, which is a diesel engine.
  • The 2.3 HOT engine is a high output turbo model that can run the 0-60 sprint in 6.9 seconds.
  • Power starts at 230bhp and can be raised to 290bhp with a remap, sports exhaust with sports catalyst and air filter.
  • A more conservative tune/remap is recommended for better reliability, driveability, and economy.
  • Power gains on Diesel engines make them more efficient compared to petrol engines like the HOT model.
  • SAAB 9-5 comes with a range of engines such as the 3.0t V6 engine, 2.2TiD, 1.9 TiD, and 2.0 V6 TiD, which can be upgraded with the mentioned modifications.
  • Upgrades are usually performed in stages with stage 1 mods such as exhaust, panel air filter, engine tunes/remapping, lighter flywheel, stage 2 mods such as ported and polished head, fast road cam, fuel injector and fuel pump upgrades, power clutch, and stage 3 mods such as engine balancing, adding or upgrading forced induction, internal engine upgrades, competition cam, and sports gearbox.
  • Superb braking is standard across the range with the ABS, although handling may need some attention, so uprated springs and dampers can enhance handling.
  • Before installing engine mods, get the breathing right and remove any restrictions in the system that could inhibit air flow.
  • A better flowing air filter can help remove restrictions in the induction kit, and a good high-performance sports exhaust is essential to balance the engine’s need for free-flowing air.
  • Gas flowing the head allows for maximizing the air/fuel charge, but it should be referred to a professional who has a proper flow bench and machine tools.
  • The clutch can sap a lot of power if it starts to slip, and the standard clutches are good only for power gains of up to 40 or 50%, so fit a performance clutch (double or triple plate) to avoid power losses through the transmission if the clutch does start to slip after a performance mod.
  • Remaps offer significant power gains on all turbocharged cars, but the benefits are doubtful for naturally aspirated engines.
  • Alloy wheels help the brakes cool down and are usually lighter than the steel ones, but the downside of

"https://www.saabcentral.com/forums/9-5-performance-mods-tuning.23/"

Notes:

  • The webpage is a forum on SaabCentral.com.
  • The forum category is called “9-5 Performance, Mods & Tuning.”
  • The forum has over 102.5k posts and 18 million views.
  • The forum has various threads that discuss different aspects of tuning and performance modifications for Saab 9-5 models.
  • Some popular threads include:
    • “The 9-5 modification list.”
    • “My Saab 9-5 project thread”
    • “6-point subframe brace options”
    • “Estimating peak HP with stock turbo?”
  • There is a post about a Stage 1 ECU tune for the Saab 9-5, which claims to bring the power up to around 250 hp.
  • Another post mentions a Viggen Rescue Kit, which includes an upgraded ECU, exhaust, and intercooler.
  • There are discussions about upgrading turbochargers, including hybrid options and swapping in larger turbos from other vehicles.
  • There are recommendations to upgrade the exhaust system, including replacing the catalytic converter, adding a downpipe, and installing a catback system.
  • Some users suggest upgrading the suspension, with options including strut braces, sway bars, and coilovers.
  • There are discussions about upgrading brakes and transmission components, including clutch kits and short-throw shifters.
  • Some users discuss upgrading the engine internals, including forged pistons and connecting rods, and reinforced head gaskets.
  • There is a post discussing upgrading the fuel system for increased power.
  • Some users suggest upgrading the intake system and intercooler for better performance.
  • There are discussions about adding nitrous oxide injection to the Saab 9-5.
  • Some users have swapped in larger engines, including the B234R from the Saab 9000 and the B235R from the Viggen.
  • There are discussions about tuning Saab 9-5s for specific types of driving, such as drag racing or track racing.
  • Some users provide updates on their own projects, including modifications they have made and the results they have achieved.
  • The forum has a supportive community of Saab enthusiasts who are willing to offer advice and share their knowledge on tuning and performance modifications.
  • Some posts have high karma, indicating they have been useful and appreciated by other users.

"Any point in tuning an OG9-3, B205E (148hp) engine?"

  • The post on the Reddit page is from 2 years ago in the Saab subreddit.
  • The post asks if tuning a newly purchased OG9-3 B205E engine with 148hp would be worth it, and what sort of effects tuning would have on engine power and fuel economy.
  • A user suggests getting the TD04 turbo from an aero, as it can offer more power potential similar to the 95.
  • Another user is unsure of the differences between the E, L, and R engines and whether they are mechanical or computer tunes or both. The 9-5 has different turbos and computer maps for aero and non-aero versions.
  • The easiest tuning option would be to look for a stage 1,2,3 computer tune, along with bigger inlet pipes and a bigger turbo back exhaust. Stage 1 tunes can help improve fuel mileage when driven normally, as the car can make more torque and hold gears at lower rpms, which burns less fuel.
  • Another user notes that just a tune can increase the engine power to around 200hp with a stock turbo, injectors, etc. Injectors are good for around 270hp on 93 octane, and around 230hp on E85. The turbo is good for approximately 240hp, but adding boost will stress it more, so they suggest upgrading to a TD04.
  • A TD04HL-15T from a 9-3/9-5 aero is capable of around 280-300hp, and is an bolt-on upgrade.
  • One user notes that adding power will make the fuel efficiency worse when pushing the car. Still, if someone is just driving around the town, the fuel efficiency might not be impacted when the car is tuned.
  • The recommendations on the webpage are based on personal experiences and may not be suitable for every car owner.
  • All users recommend tuning with extra caution and always consult with a professional mechanic.
  • The advice provided is opinion-based and may not be 100% reliable, and any modifications should be done at the owner’s risk.

"https://www.motortrend.com/how-to/eurp-1003-saab-tuning-guide-tech/"

  • Saab is a Swedish car manufacturer that produced automobiles in the ‘40s.
  • Saab had a competitive European rally program for decades, giving the brand a strong motorsport image in Europe and creating a performance-oriented customer base.
  • Saab was aligned with premium brands such as BMW, Audi, and Mercedes.
  • Saabs boast turbo engines and are suitable tuning subjects.
  • Maptun is one of the world’s most respected Saab tuners, established in Sweden 12 years ago and specializing in software development.
  • Maptun offers tuning services for all Saab models, from ‘93-and-newer Saab 900, 9-3, and 9000 to newer Saab 9-2X.
  • Maptun is a one-stop-shop for Saab parts and offers expertise in engine builds, gearboxes, manifolds, fuel systems, software, hoses, and more.
  • Maptun has the technology to provide custom software for Saab owners who piece together their own engine build.
  • In the last two years, Maptun has also developed programs for E85 ethanol or flex fuel.
  • MaptunUSA was born in Elizabeth, CO, giving US enthusiasts direct access to information, parts, and custom tuning.
  • Andrew Schmidt from MaptunUSA says the cost to tune Saabs is similar to that of VW/Audi, but Saabs can be bought a lot cheaper.
  • Saab 9-5 is not mentioned as one of the most commonly encountered Saab models, but it is a newer model with weaker pistons and valvetrain, making it less bulletproof for tuning purposes.
  • Maptun offers up to seven comprehensive tuning stages for Saabs, from a basic ECU reflash to extreme engine build kits that can exceed 500hp.
  • The basic upgrade is an ECU reflash via the OBD port.
  • A stage 1 software upgrade would take the base 9-3 from 185hp to 225hp, with a torque increase of 75 lb-ft. This would cost from $400 on older cars to $800 on newer ones.
  • Saab turbocharged cars such as the 900, 9-3, and 9000 offer 150-210hp from the factory, with tuning potential comparable to the VW/Audi 1.8T/2.0T.
  • The more complex T7 ECU was introduced to offer better fuel consumption but such cars can still reach 315hp safely

"Performance tune suggestions and how to?"

  • The webpage is a thread discussion on r/saab subreddit titled “Performance tune suggestions and how to?” posted 1 year, 7 months ago.
  • The original post is by a Reddit user who owns a Saab 9-5 Aero and is new to tuning and modding Saabs. They are looking for suggestions on a stage 1 tune for their car and a guide on how to go about it.
  • Several redditors recommended tunes to consider from a company called Maptun, BSR, and Nordic.
    • One redditor suggested specific products from Genuine Saab that can be used for performance tuning.
    • Another redditor said to skip the tune and invest in a turbo-back exhaust first to allow the stage 1 tune to work better.
  • The tune process is described by one redditor as a flash tune that is done through plugging into the OBD2 port and flashing the ECU, which takes 5-10 minutes.
  • Another redditor recommended Taliaferro as a good tuner company for Saab 9-5s.
  • The original poster has upgraded a few supporting mods, but the car has a stock turbo and exhaust.
  • One redditor recommended installing a larger downpipe and upgrading the exhaust before tuning the car.
  • There is a discussion about whether the stock air intake works well or if a better flowing intake pipe would work with the stock airbox. One redditor recommended using the stock airbox as it is already a cold air intake location and that “cold air” setups are often scams.
  • Some redditors ask about tuners that operate in the US and one recommends Maptun as they exist in the US.
  • There is some debate over whether a stage 1 tune can be done on a stock exhaust system or if it is better to upgrade it first.
  • One redditor mentions they have a tune from a tuner called Mackanized in Sweden that gives them 240hp and 360nm on E85, and another expresses concern about the engine’s health with that much power.
  • There are several follow-up questions and responses to get more detail on the poster’s car setup, including what turbo and exhaust they have.

"Maptun V.S. Vtuner???"

Notes:

  • A Reddit user asks for opinions on which is better between Maptun and Vtuner for tuning their Saab 9-3 Turbo X Sedan’s 2.8L engine.
  • Stage 0 vtune provides more power but is not recommended for daily driving.
  • Vtuner gets good reviews for being reliable and customer service-oriented.
  • Recommendations for Brian @ Vtuner, as he’s great to work with, responds quickly to help requests, and offers a tune that is really noticeable with the amount of power it provides.
  • Saabcentral.com community shares experience of users who have had a vtune on for hundreds of thousands of miles with no issues.
  • Someone else recommends Brew City Boost over Maptun – it offers a better tune for the 2.8L engine, making the car a torque and speed monster.
  • The owner of a shop working with Saabs really swears by Brew City Boost, but a first-time tuner might be hesitant to go this route.
  • While there is potential for driving enthusiasts to push their car to its limits, this could affect reliability. It’s recommended to stay on top of maintenance and avoid redlining.
  • Vtuner has been on an automatic Saab 9-3 for four years with no issues, though some slight power loss on hot days is sometimes noticed.
  • Brew City Boost’s tune is easy to install because of step-by-step instructions, customer support, and customer testimony about how it transformed their Saabs.
  • Some people prefer to remain stock instead of tuning their car because of concerns about potentially damaging their engine.

💭  Looking into

Common Tuning Modifications for Saab 9-5 and their Impact on Performance

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Step-by-Step Guide for Tuning a Saab 9-5