TIRES: Especially with a Saab, there is nothing like STUDDED SNOW TIRES ON ALL FOUR WHEELS. Having a front wheel drive Saab can actually be a liability sometimes without proper tires. The problem occurs because you can be 'pulling' yourself down a slick road quite easily (and often faster than you might otherwise be going) even with poor tires because of the FWD and the Saab's unique weight distribution and balance. If something happens to interrupt that seemingly stable situation, say someone up ahead gets in trouble and you have to slow down or brake quickly, you find yourself not with "FWD", but with "FWOOC" (Four-Wheels-Out-Of-Control.) Without ABS, (88 on 9000's, 89 on 900's) , the spelling of your SAAB can quickly change to SOB, and that $275 you could have spent on four studded snows becomes the best bargain you could imagine. If you are determined to only use two studded wheels, put them on the back axle for better stability when stopping. Siped All-Season Tires work reasonably well if the tread is new, but in emergency situations fall far short of the traction of studs, the best Winter Protection you can buy.

Driving Habits: Use the FWD. Start a little slower in the turns and gradually accelerate, pulling yourself around the corner. Saab's characteristic 'understeer' allows for powering around a turn and this is the best way to utilize the FWD. If the front wheels skid excessively, even after turning the steering wheel more sharply under slight power, then sometimes abruptly letting off on the gas pedal will cause the Saab to oversteer and bring the rear wheels around, helping you to keep from skidding into the other lane. Another method of initiating oversteer is to brake while applying power, but don't try this without some practice in an open parking lot! The Balance of a Saab is superb, if you learn to use it. Remember, except for excellent crash protection, when braking you're little different from any other car on an icy road. The best assurance of road handling on ice is DRIVING SLOWLY on FOUR STUDDED SNOW TIRES.

Engine Oil: 15/40 is still an excellent grade for winter, though some models do better with 10-30.

Coolant: Should be good for at least 40 deg. below zero for corrosion protection. Carry an extra gallon of mixed coolant in summertime.

Windshield Wipers and Washers: Both are equally necessary. Change your blades and service the washers, fill the reservoir.

Defrosters: Never use the 'Recirculate' function of your ventilation system while defrosting windows, instant fogging of windows can result.

Emergency! Keep a 6v. Lantern Light with a red flashing lens feature behind your seat. In case you have to get out of the car at night, other drivers will be able to see you! Keep the gas tank near full.

Tools: Good Spare Tire ( REGULARLY CHECKED FOR SUFFICIENT AIR PRESSURE ), Jack and lug wrench. A sleeping Bag to keep you warm in case you're stranded with a few candy bars and juice. Jumper Cables. A good Flashlight. An outer work garment of light, reflective color, gloves and Emergency Road Markers / flares in case you have to change a tire.