Engine management light on

[westm1ll]

Hi.

Saab 9-3 convertible 2008 1.9Tdi 70,000 miles

First post so I hope it's a clear and relevant question.

Engine management light came on the other day and on tick over it was surging. I revved a bit and clouds of smoke came out of the exhaust, ( not blue smoke ). It cleared pretty quick and then ticked over smoothly.
I'm hoping it's not too drastic but would love to get my own ODBII reader to read and clear codes etc:

Firstly, any idea what the problem could be and secondly, any idea what a good reader would be for this and future problems. I also have a 2009 9-3 and the garage that could read codes on that, cannot read codes on the 2008.

P.s. I can't remember what it's called but I think the ) DPF, EPG or something like that has been deleted.

Thanks for any advice.

[Dave T]

Several of the major auto parts shops in the United States lend and OBDII reader but Herfordshire is too far away! These shops, like O'Reilly Auto or Autozone, let you use it in the parking lot.

I have an old Scangauge that, I think, has some reader capability.

[Zbycholud45]

It sounds like your Saab 9-3 is showing some classic signs of an issue related to either the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve or the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter), especially since you mentioned one of them might have been deleted. The surging idle and smoke could point to an EGR valve malfunction, particularly if it's sticking or clogged. Since these components are related to emissions control, removing or tampering with them can sometimes cause unexpected behavior.
As for the OBDII reader, for Saabs, I'd recommend a couple of options:

1. iCarsoft i902: This is a popular diagnostic tool specifically designed for Saab and Volvo. It can read/clear codes and provide live data, which could be really useful if you have multiple Saab models.
   
2. Autel MaxiAP AP200: This is a Bluetooth device that pairs with your phone, giving you the flexibility to read and clear codes on different car models, including your 2008 Saab.

It's strange that your garage couldn't read the codes on the 2008 model, but these devices should cover both of your Saabs. Make sure whichever reader you choose can handle diesel-specific diagnostics, especially if your DPF has been modified.