Hi, i have a 1998 saab 93 convertible, and suddenly the roof, drop top does not go down, i dissengage the manual locking mechanism, press the button to lower the roof, but nothing happens. I have no information on the sid, and i can not hear any noise of motors working, no windows move, basically nothing happens!!! i appreciate any help with my problem, thanks.

Take a look at www.saabservices.com website, and click on convertible top issues.
There is a huge amount of stuff there, including diagnostics info at the bottom of the page.
The tonneau motor is the most common problem, and they sell them. Another possible issue is a bad 5th bow potentiometer. Good luck!

there should be a alan key port on the drive motor/pump side that if you remove will allow you to put fluid into keep in mind that this is a closed system. The fluid should not need to be topped up unless there is a leak... good luck

http://extendedgmwarranty.com/owners-manual/saab/2003-Saab-9-3M.pdf

my 1999 saab 93 converible roof will only open if i press the button twice why is this

To check the oil level open the boot - at the very back remove the 4 plastic clips that hold the carpet in place. Slightly to the left of the center there are 2 holes - shine a light in the bottom and look through the top one to check the level.
To add oil - fold down the seat backrest. Remove the plastic trim - held on by 4 screws and 2 pop out plastic cllips. Undo the 8 large bolts that hold the cover in place - 2 on top and 3 on front and back.Then lift up the cover from the front edge. You will then be able to get to the resevoir - you will need a funnel to poor fluid in.

Hi David:

First, check the fuses for the hydraulic motor; if they're blown, replace and monitor (why did they blow? Perhaps an overload, or ...) These fuses are located in the engine bay on top of the fender by the front right wheel housing.

Next check the voltage supply to the top switch, possibly a loose connection or broken wire.

Also check relays C (raising top) and D (lowering top) under the rear seat.

Lastly check for voltage at the pump, also under the rear seat, when the switch is actuated, and that the voltage polarity reverses when the switch is actuated the other way (up or down).

After that, it's a hydraulic/mechanical problem. Check the fluid level in the pump reservoir (use SAAB fluid to top up if low) Fluid level should be at the upper marker with top down, and at the lower marker with top up.

Check behind the rear seat side panels that the piston shaft is still properly attached to the roof mechanism bracket at one end, and the piston itself is still firmly attached to the body. Look for any leakage from the system.

If all tests out OK and looks good under the rear seat and behind the side panels, then there is the possibility that the piston seals have failed and the fluid is just circulating around without activating the piston. Pistons are available (http://www.convertibletopguys.com/cgi-local/displaycat.cgi?cat=584 - scroll down) but the entire system should be removed to avoid getting hydraulic fluid on the interior.

However, that fact that you can operate the hood using the bypass valve (manually) would indicate that the hydraulics are likely OK, and that it's probably an electrical or mechanical problem.

Good luck!

Saabreur

This happenrd to me the first few times after filling the tank. When the roof stops push the switch to up then back until movement stops then go back to down, eventually it will get rid of all the air in the system and the roof should start to work.

Your tonneau motor is probably bad, though reprogramming the limits may fix it. You will need the factory tool, unfortunately. There is a lot of information on this webpage. Be sure to read the information relating to updates on 1995 models.

There are numerous technical service bulletins issued for the top. The list with the full TSBs is here.