Henrik Glad, a renowned eSID developer (read more about e SID3), has captured the attention of Saab 9-3 vehicle owners with an innovative hack that integrates the information cluster from the newer Saab 9-5ng model into the Saab 9-3.
This upgrade is not just a mere gadget addition but a sophisticated enhancement that further accentuates the aviation heritage of the Saab brand, making the vehicles’ dashboards visually reminiscent of aircraft instrument panels.
Table of Contents
The Genesis of the Upgrade
Henrik Glad’s endeavor began as a response to the vast interest among Saab 9-3 owners to modernize their vehicles with the more attractive and technologically advanced 9-5ng model’s info cluster. This customization, while aesthetically pleasing and functionally appealing, is not without its challenges. Glad has been inundated with inquiries about the feasibility of this upgrade for the NG9-3 models from 2007 to 2012, prompting him to provide a comprehensive guide and solution through his hack.
Installation Complexities
The installation process, as outlined by Glad, is intricate. It requires the complete disassembly of the original 9-3 cluster, which must then be strategically placed behind the new 9-5 cluster within the dashboard. This process, supported by a specialized wiring kit developed by Glad, negates the need for additional wiring but comes with several caveats.
For instance, certain functionalities, like the IPswitch with Night Panel and other buttons, will not work unless the original cluster is integrated. Furthermore, the process demands technical precision to avoid short-circuiting the PCB.
Enhanced Integration with the IPC650 Gateway
The innovative integration of the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) from the Saab NG9-5 2010-2012 into the Saab 9-3 models of 2003-2006 is achieved through a unique gateway unit, dubbed the IPC650GW. This gateway serves as a critical component in replacing the original Main Instrument Unit (MIU) of the Saab 9-3 with the more advanced IPC from the Saab 9-5.
Despite both terms, IPC and MIU, denoting the vehicle’s instrument cluster, they stem from distinct platform architectures, highlighting the nuanced approach required for this integration. The IPC650GW’s designation originates from Saab’s internal name for the NG9-5, underscoring the targeted compatibility and design intention behind this project. In the documentation, “MIU” pertains to the Saab 9-3’s original cluster, while “IPC” refers to the upgraded cluster from the Saab 9-5, illustrating the transition between two generations of vehicle design.
Bridging Platform Differences
The Saab 9-3’s foundation on the GM/Opel Epsilon-1 platform contrasts sharply with the new generation Saab 9-5’s development on the Global Epsilon (Epsilon-2) platform. This disparity, especially in the electrical architectures of the two platforms, necessitates the creation of a bespoke solution to reconcile these differences. The development of an installation kit, which includes both a gateway module and an adapter harness, marks a significant step forward in merging these disparate platforms, ensuring a seamless integration of the advanced IPC into the Saab 9-3.
To ensure the precision functioning of the gateway within a specific vehicle, it requires programming with detailed vehicle information such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), fuel tank capacity, odometer reading, and the cluster display type (Color or Monochrome). This meticulous customization process underscores the importance of accurate vehicle data for the successful upgrade and integration of the IPC, facilitating a modernized interface while maintaining the vehicle’s original functionality.
Compatibility and Limitations
Glad explicitly mentions that the eSID will not support the NG9-5 cluster, which means owners will lose access to this tool’s extensive vehicle diagnostics and information capabilities. Additional limitations include the lack of “Coolant Level Low” and “Washer Fluid Low” warnings, inability to adjust settings that were available on the old display, manual adjustment requirements for the cluster’s illumination, and the absence of an outside temperature display.
The Offer
Despite these drawbacks, Henrik Glad offers a solution for those willing to embrace the upgrade. The IPC650GW installation kit is designed for MY2007-2012 models with Gasoline or Diesel engines, priced at 2400 SEK (including Swedish tax) for EU residents and 1920 SEK (excluding tax) for non-EU residents or EU companies with a valid VAT number. Shipping costs are estimated at around 150 SEK, with a preference for payment via PayPal or International Bank Transfer. Prospective buyers are required to fill out a form, specifying their vehicle model year to ensure the wiring kit is appropriately modified.
Hacking Saab 9-3
Henrik Glad’s innovative hack offers Saab 9-3 owners a unique opportunity to upgrade their vehicles with a modern touch that pays homage to the brand’s aviation legacy. While the installation process presents certain challenges and limitations, it represents a fascinating venture for those devoted to enhancing their Saab experience. This upgrade not only enhances the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal but also its functionality, albeit with a few concessions.
Two essential tools are missing, “Coolant Level Low” and ”absence of an outside temperature display”. Taking into account that Saabs are no longer new cars and at any time there can be problems with the coolant, a broken hose, a leak at a gasket . At the moment I don’t think it is recommended this setup for the safety of the engine operation. The rest of the warning messages that are not displayed, “Washer Fluid Low” warnings, inability to adjust settings that were available on the old display, manual adjustment requirements for the cluster’s illumination, let’s say they are not really that important, but for who uses them periodically they can also be an impediment. I would still wait for an optimization of the setup until it becomes fully functional.
TO > Ioannis Vatikiotis 2003-2006 you meant?
We have MY2007 NG9-3CV pre-facelift with upgraded dashboard.
Diesel so you’d definitely need “coolant low” notification. If it’s not working with the upgrade then it’s useless.
It’s not said whether or works with the color display because the green display of NG9-5 looks boring and there is only 20-30 € difference between their prices.
eSID won’t work after that upgrade. That’s a big minus.
But I’d purchase eSID for NG9-5 right away if it would be available 👌😎👍
Where can I give someone my money for this !?
To Ben Flo > Contact esid.se (saab.esid@gmail.com)
The IPC650GW was developed for NG9-3 2003-2006, and it was just out of curiosity tested on a newer 9-3 that my friend Andreas has. The article focuses on the facelifted 2007-2012 cars and those issues but it really works great on 9-3 2003-2006 where it was intended, together with eSID 03-06. Read more at esid.se and see videos on https://www.esid.se
The article focus too much on 9-3 2007-2012 and the limitations on these cars. The product is designed for 9-3 2003-2006! And works very well with eSID on those model years with no limitations! Read more here https://esid.se/manuals/IPC650GW-NG93_UserGuide_EN.pdf