- BT Changer V7 HF or newer
- Plug & Play cable
- Factory Saab microphone
- Factory Saab phone connector
- Steering wheel controls
- At least 2.2.1 firmware
- Enabling BT Changer Hands-Free Mode
BT Changer V7 HF
Hands-Free mode is only available with version V7 or later
Plug & Play cable
HF mode only works with a special cable. Currently, it is available for the following models:
- 2003-2006 Saab 9-3
- 2007-2010 Saab 9-3
- 2006-2010 Saab 9-5
Factory Saab microphone
Check if your car has a factory-installed microphone.
The easiest way to verify this is by checking your VIN on mysaab.info.
- If your car has a microphone, you will see: TELEPHONE PREPARATION, HANDSFREE
- If your car does not have a microphone, you will see: TELEPHONE PREPARATION (ONLY POWER FEED)
Based on our experience, this method is usually reliable. However, if you want to be absolutely sure, you need to physically check for the microphone. To do this, remove the upper console in front of the rearview mirror and see if the microphone is in place. The factory microphone looks like this:
If your car does not have a factory microphone, you cannot use the BT Changer Hands-Free function.
If you still want the Hands-Free option, you will need to install a factory microphone. This is not too complicated. You need to purchase a used microphone (OEM: 4713087 or 12785240) and install it in place. In many models, the wiring is already present, so you only need to plug it into the connector. However, if the wiring is missing, you will need to install it yourself.
If the phone connector includes pins 9 and 18, the necessary wiring is likely already available.
Factory Saab telephone connector
As far as we know, all Saab models manufactured after 1993 have some form of telephone preparation. Depending on the model year, there are three different types of connectors.
Currently, we support the 18-pin (375) connector.
The location of this connector varies by model:
- Saab 9-5: Behind the climate control panel
- Saab 9-3: Inside the dashboard on the right side. It can also be accessed by removing the right-side panel of the center console from the passenger side.
Steering wheel controls
These are not strictly necessary, but they are essential for safe call handling.
The BT Changer does not use the factory phone buttons.
To answer a call, press the Track/Chanel FWD button. To end a call, press the Track/Chanel REV button. If your car does not have steering wheel controls, you will only be able to answer calls using your phone.
At least 2.2.1 firmware
Hands-free mode requires a minimum system software version of 2.2.1.
If necessary, it must be updated via Wi-Fi in the admin interface.
The latest firmware can be found here.
Enabling BT Changer Hands-Free Mode
No special tools or a factory Tech2 device are required for activation. You need to connect to the BT Changer via Wi-Fi and enable Hands-Free mode from the admin interface.
By default, HF mode is not activated.
Only enable this mode if you have installed all the necessary components for HF operation.
Exclusion Reasons
For the NG 9-3 models, the BT Changer Hands-Free mode can only be used if the car does not have a factory-installed OnStar and/or Telematics (built-in phone) system. As far as I know, all NG 9-3s made for the US market are equipped with such systems. Therefore, in these Saabs, the BT Changer can only be used for music playback.
Important Information About BT Changer Hands-Free Mode
At first glance, Hands-Free mode may seem like a simple function, but in reality, it is a highly complex system. Several factors must be considered for proper operation, such as the type of Saab and phone, external noise levels, the volume of the head unit, the conversation mode, and more.
Since the BT Changer is an aftermarket device, it only has access to the parameters and functions permitted by the given system. This puts it at a disadvantage compared to modern car audio systems, which can integrate with and oversee the entire vehicle system. Furthermore, in its current configuration, the BT Changer cannot access certain Saab-specific functions. For example, due to the split Can-Bus system, steering wheel buttons designed for hands-free operation cannot be used, we can only use other steering wheel buttons.
During the long development process, we have always strived to find the best solutions, making compromises when necessary. Some aspects can no longer be changed, but limited development possibilities still exist. For instance, displaying the caller’s name is among our future plans.
We gladly welcome any feedback regarding its use. Feel free to reach out if something isn’t working correctly or if you have any concerns. We can’t guarantee changes, but we’ll do our best to improve things! 🙂