[fleong]

Can I tell if the DI unit is working without hooking it to plugs and grounding them? Is a broken unit always leaking oil?
The starter will turn, but the car won't start. Had worked perfectly fine until I tried to start the car in the morning. Likely to be the DI unit?

 

[mark e]

There's no way I'm aware of that you can test the DI with any sort of "passive" measurement. Main dealers have a special set of dummy plugs and lead that they can put it the cartridge to see if it is sparking.

Leaking oil is a good indication of likely or impending failure, but this is really more prevalent on the early (pre 92ish IIRC) models.

Other possibilities for non- starting are a faulty alarm/immobiliser if fitted, faulty carnkshaft position sensor or fuel supply- can you hear the fuel pump running?

 

[jp11]

I've just experienced a simila problem with my MY 2000 9-3. I cranks but won't fire. It coincides with the fact that I'd just removed the hands free phone kit....
When I switch on the ignition the fuel pump make a clunk. After cranking I can smell fuel from the tailpipe.
I found the radio/diagnostics fuse to be blown (although the radio worked and the SID seemed to work).
So, is it the immobilizer (it's not fitted with a remote or alarm) or the DI cassette?

 

[Paul D]

Easiest test is to swap unit out with a known good donor unit from a fellow Saab driver or specialists.

If you turn engine over with DI Pack connected to wiring loom but any spart plug disconnected - it will blow the DI unit up.

 

[fleong]

Just got a used DI cassette and replaced it - car starts up easily. Thanks all.

 

[fleong]

In answer to my own question, the faulty DI cassette can look completely fine with no oil leak. In fact, my cassette looked new compared to the used working unit I replaced it with.