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Questionable Design Decision by Saab
Despite Saab’s reputation for brilliant engineering and innovative solutions, some design choices have proven problematic and even illogical. One such decision is the placement of the ECU (Engine Control Unit), which is not only one of the largest control modules in the vehicle but also one of the most vulnerable due to its factory location. Saab has, on several occasions, chosen suboptimal positions for this critical component, leading to premature failures and costly repairs.
A prime example is the T8 ECU in petrol-powered Saabs, which was mounted directly on the engine, exposing it to intense heat and strong vibrations. Over time, Saab owners and specialized service centers identified the high failure rate of this setup, prompting the development of various relocation and insulation kits to shield the ECU from extreme conditions. One such solution, pioneered by Taiwanese Saab enthusiasts, has already been covered in detail here: Saab ECU T8 Repair and Relocation Kit.
Similarly, the Saab 9-3 TTiD diesel models feature another flawed ECU placement—this time in a completely exposed position inside the front right wheel well. This location leaves the ECU vulnerable to moisture, road debris, salt, and vibrations, significantly reducing its lifespan. The situation is particularly severe in regions with harsh winters and road salting, such as Scandinavia, where corrosion can begin affecting the ECU as early as 200,000 km. Additionally, if the car is driven through deep water, the ECU could be completely submerged, leading to instant failure.
Adding to these ECU placement concerns, Saab 9-3 V6 models, including the Aero and Turbo X, utilize the Bosch ME9.6 ECU, which is also prone to failure due to severe vibration issues. While this ECU benefits from an advanced silicone compound that effectively reduces heat exposure by up to 60%, its ceramic PCB design makes it highly susceptible to mechanical stress. Over time, constant engine vibrations can lead to cracks and internal failures, rendering the vehicle inoperable. This issue has left many Turbo X models stranded, as new replacement units are no longer available. The only viable solutions have been sourcing used ECUs or opting for specialized repair services.
This flaw has driven Saab specialists worldwide to seek out solutions, and one of the best comes from KM Tronics, a company founded by Mark van Kampen, which has developed an affordable and effective relocation bracket for the TTiD ECU. More on this essential modification in the following sections.
The Solution – Relocating Your TTiD ECU
To address this design flaw, Saab specialists and aftermarket innovators have developed ECU relocation kits. One of the most effective solutions comes from KM Tronics, a Saab-focused company founded by Mark van Kampen, which has been producing high-quality electronic components and ECU repair services for years.
KM Tronics offers a Saab 9-3NG TTiD ECU Relocation Bracket Kit, designed to move the ECU away from the wheel well and into a safer location. This bracket allows for relocation behind the engine firewall, where it is shielded from the elements and significantly less exposed to vibration and corrosion.
Why You Should Relocate Your ECU Now
The benefits of relocating your Saab 9-3 TTiD ECU are substantial:
- Prevents corrosion damage, especially in cold climates where road salt accelerates deterioration.
- Reduces vibration exposure, prolonging the life of internal ECU components.
- Eliminates water damage risk, a critical factor for drivers in wet climates.
- Avoids costly repairs, as replacing a failed ECU can cost upwards of €600, while the relocation kit is just €38.50.
For those unfamiliar with car modifications, KM Tronics provides a complete installation guide with both written instructions and a detailed video tutorial. The installation does not require advanced tools or expertise—any Saab owner with basic mechanical skills can perform the relocation.
What’s Included in the KM Tronics ECU Relocation Kit?
The KM Tronics TTiD ECU Relocation Kit is a simple yet effective solution designed to prevent premature ECU failures by moving the control unit to a safer location. The kit includes:
- 1 x Bracket for the Saab TTiD ECU (EDC16C39 ECU) – A precision-made mounting bracket that allows secure relocation.
- 2 x Foam Pads – Pre-installed on the bracket, these cushions minimize vibrations to extend the ECU’s lifespan.
- 2 x M5 Screws – Essential for securely fastening the ECU in its new position.
- 1 x M5 Grounding Cable (50 cm) – Provides an additional ground connection for improved reliability.
- 1 x Installation Guide – A detailed step-by-step manual, provided digitally upon purchase.
The bracket is custom-made and assembled upon order, ensuring a perfect fit for each Saab 9-3 TTiD. The estimated delivery time is five days.
There are two recommended mounting positions for the relocated ECU:
- Against the firewall behind the engine, which requires no modifications.
- Near the air filter housing, which may require minor cutting—especially for vehicles with a parking heater.
For Saab owners uncertain about the best mounting option, KM Tronics offers direct customer support to assist with installation.
Where to Buy the KM Tronics ECU Relocation Kit
If you own a Saab 9-3NG TTiD or TiD, investing in an ECU relocation kit is one of the smartest preventative maintenance steps you can take. KM Tronics offers the complete TTiD ECU relocation bracket kit for just €38.50, available at:
For Saab enthusiasts who have already experienced ECU failures, KM Tronics also provides ECU repair services and sells remanufactured ECUs for €600:
🔗 Saab 9-3 TTiD ECU Replacement
With affordable pricing and easy installation, relocating your ECU is a small investment that can prevent a massive future repair bill.
Another critical ECU failure point in Saab 9-3 models affects the V6-powered Aero and Turbo X models, which utilize the Bosch ME9.6 ECU. This control unit suffers from severe vibration-related failures due to its ceramic PCB design, which, while excellent for heat resistance, is highly susceptible to mechanical stress. If the ME9.6 fails, the vehicle becomes completely inoperable, and finding a replacement is nearly impossible, as new units are no longer available.
Many Turbo X models have been left stranded due to ECU failures, forcing owners to rely on used control units with uncertain reliability. Recognizing this design flaw, KM Tronics has developed two critical solutions:
- ME9.6 ECU Anti-Vibration Kit – A preventative upgrade that minimizes vibration stress, significantly extending the lifespan of the ECU. 🔗 Saab V6 ECU Anti-Vibration Kit
- ME9.6 ECU Repair Service – For those who have already experienced a failure, KM Tronics offers professional repair services to restore the ECU’s functionality. 🔗 Saab V6 ECU Repair & Anti-Vibration Kit
Unlike the T8 ECU, which requires both heat and vibration protection, the ME9.6’s primary weakness lies in vibration resistance. Saab’s use of a silicone compound inside the ME9.6 significantly reduces heat exposure by up to 60%, but without proper vibration control, the ECU remains at high risk of failure.
By installing the KM Tronics anti-vibration kit, Saab 9-3 Aero and Turbo X owners can protect their ECU from premature failure, avoiding costly downtime and the risk of being left stranded without a replacement option.
Secure Your Saab’s ECU Before It’s Too Late
The ECU placement issues in both the Saab 9-3 TTiD and petrol-powered models have caused countless owners unnecessary expenses due to premature failures. Given the risks of corrosion, vibration, heat exposure, and water damage, relocating your ECU is an essential upgrade for ensuring the longevity of your vehicle’s electronics.
For petrol-powered Saabs, the T8 ECU relocation kits help shield the unit from engine heat and excessive vibrations, preventing common failures. Similarly, for Saab 9-3 TTiD diesel models, the KM Tronics ECU relocation bracket eliminates the risk of water exposure, corrosion, and physical damage, significantly increasing its lifespan.
By investing in an affordable relocation kit, Saab owners can prevent costly failures and ensure that their vehicles continue running smoothly. Don’t wait until your ECU fails—relocate it today and drive worry-free.
