We have developed a unique Bluetooth module that can modernize the audio system of Saab cars. The device needs to be connected to the car’s cables, establishing a wireless audio connection through CAN-BUS, with audio systems that originally do not have this feature. With this module, you can listen to music, podcasts, online radio from mobile devices while retaining the original comfort functions of the vehicle (such as volume control from the steering wheel or track selection). Moreover, it introduces new functions that were not previously available. During use, the information display (SID) or the head unit display can show the metadata of the music tracks, such as artist name, album, and track title. These displayed information can be individually configured, and custom text can also be displayed.
How does it work?
Depending on the type of BT Changer, it operates in three ways:
- For OG 9-3/9-5 models, it connects to the factory head unit’s CD Changer line and communicates with the system via CAN, simulating a CD changer. This provides access to various CD changer functions, and through the I-BUS system, certain new functions may also appear. Unfortunately, the factory CD changer function is lost, but it can be installed in models originally without a CD changer.
- For 2006 and later NG 9-3/OG 9-5 models, the BT Changer simulates the operation of the factory Satellite radio. Alongside AM and FM channels, XM radio appears, allowing connection from a mobile device. The head unit’s other functions (e.g., CD, AUX) remain unchanged. If the car had XM radio installed, it must be disconnected as the two cannot function together.
- For 2003-2005 9-3 models, the Bluetooth expansion utilizes the audio system’s direct analog line input (AUX). We have developed a unique Bluetooth expansion with minimal external intervention. The BT Changer module needs to be connected to the car using a special cable. The AUX anf Bluetooth cannot function together. (If not previously available, the EHU audio input must be activated with TEC2)
- For the OG 900 model, a modified BT Changer Vintage module was created. It works as a CD Changer using Clarion’s communication protocol. Due to the limitations of the protocol, meta data cannot be displayed in this case.
Does it work as a hands-free kit?
Initially, the BT Changert worked as an audio receiver, but from February 2025, if certain conditions are met, the BT Changer will also function as a hands-free device. This feature provides full hands-free mode, meaning it works not only during Bluetooth music playback but also while listening to the radio or even when the head unit is turned off. Calls can be controlled via the steering wheel button, even in vehicles that originally lacked this functionality.
For more information on the hands-free mode requirements, click here.
In some Saab models, intalling the Hands-Free mode can be quite complex, so it is not necessarily required. With the Plug & Play cable, it can be used as a standard audio receiver for music playback. During phone calls, the music fades, and after the call, it resumes. The BT Changer operates in parallel with the factory-installed Saab hands-free system and aftermarket hands-free systems (e.g., Parrot).
How and what needs to be configured?
The BT Changer is a universal module. Besides the device’s version number, the settings determine which Saab models it can be used with. The same module can be used in different Saab models with different configurations. Configuration is done via a Wi-Fi connection. This method is used to set up the head unit, SID type, and also for updates. In Wi-Fi mode, only settings can be configured.
How to install it?
Installation can be done at home with the provided cable bundle. In some models, soldering may be required, connecting to the cable bundle behind the head unit.
Available harness types:
- CD Changer harness:
Works with most OG 9-3 models where the CD Changer wiring is pre-installed, even if no CD Changer was factory-equipped. In OG 9-5, this is usually only present if the car originally had a CD Changer. This harness does not support hands-free mode. - Trunk harness (OG 9-5 without CD Changer):
Connects to two plugs under the left side of the trunk lining. In early 9-3 and 9-5 models (1998), the plugs are located near the base of the A-pillar. Hands-free not supported. - XM HU harness:
For post-2006 NG 9-3 and OG 9-5 models. US/Canada market satellite radio wiring is typically missing in most Saabs, so a special adapter is required. Plug & play installation between the head unit and factory wiring. Hands-free supported. - XM satellite harness:
If satellite radio is installed, this harness connects at its place in the trunk. Hands-free not supported. - NG 9-3 harness (2003–2006 only):
Connects to the ICM (central control unit) and EHU (radio/amplifier unit). Hands-free supported. - Vintage harness:
For NG 900, OG 900, and 9000 models with CLARION head units. Connects to the CD Changer port with 13 pin DIN connector. Hands-free not supported.
Which car types can it be used for?
The BT Changer can be used with almost all GM Saab models – except for the NG 9-5 – as well as classic CLARION head units.
SAAB 9000
SAAB NG 900
SAAB OG 9-3
SAAB NG 9-3
NG 9-3 facelift
SAAB OG 9-5
SAAB OG 9-5
SAAB OG 9-5
BT Changer Features
- Audio Playback
Supports all audio playback that your mobile device allows. You can listen to music from Spotify, watch YouTube videos while waiting, or use voice-guided navigation. - Automatic Connection
The BT Changer automatically connects to your phone when it comes within range. For example, when you return to your car, music playback resumes right where it left off. - Full Hands-Free Functionality
Not only in Bluetooth mode — the hands-free feature also works during radio or CD playback, provided your car supports it. - Metadata Display on SID or Head Unit
The BT Changer displays all metadata (e.g., song title, artist) allowed by your phone. On OG 9-3 and 9-5 models, you can configure which data appears on which line of the factory SID screen. - Custom Metadata Display
You can enter a custom text (e.g., “I love 9-5 :)”) via the admin interface to be shown on the SID or head unit display. - Metadata Scrolling
Factory displays cannot show long metadata strings, but BT Changer scrolls them when switching tracks or on user request. - Custom Bluetooth Name
Through the admin interface, you can define how the device appears on Bluetooth networks. For example: “9-3 Bluetooth”. - Steering Wheel Button Support
Volume control, track skipping, metadata scrolling, and call answer/reject functions are all controllable via the factory steering wheel buttons. (On some Saab models, functionality may be partially limited or mapped differently.) - No App Required for Configuration
The BT Changer is configurable via any smartphone using a Wi-Fi connection in AP mode — no app installation needed. - Updateable via Wi-Fi
When a new feature is released, the BT Changer can be updated over Wi-Fi — no need to buy a new unit. - Pairing on Demand
New Bluetooth connections require the user’s approval — pairing is only allowed after a button press. - Family Function
Can remember two Bluetooth devices, so family members don’t need to re-pair their phones when using the same car. - Reduce volume when reversing
Reduce or mute the playback volume while reversing. Learn more. - TECH 2 Support
On OG 9-3 and 9-5 models, the factory TECH 2 diagnostic tool reads no audio system errors, and even displays the BT Changer firmware version. - Comfort turn signal
This function is available on Saab 9-3 (2003–2006) models only. (Unfortunately not available on others.) - Sleep Mode
When CAN traffic stops, the BT Changer switches to low-power sleep mode. It instantly wakes up when traffic resumes (e.g., a door is opened). - Universal Module
The BT Changer’s compatibility is determined by its settings — with a cable harness swap, it can be transferred to another Saab model.
Some features depend on the car model and head unit type.
Why is this better than a head unit replacement?
Experience shows that premium vehicles like Saabs were originally equipped with high-quality audio systems (e.g., Harman Kardon, Bose, etc.). However, these older audio systems often lack the now essential Bluetooth connection. Those Saabs that did have this feature did not support music playback.
Replacing the head unit just for this feature is unnecessary and comes with several disadvantages. Installing an aftermarket head unit is cumbersome, it cannot connect to the quality Saab factory amplifier, resulting in significantly poorer sound quality. Controlling from the steering wheel is either difficult or impossible. For some models, the service intervals are tied to data from the factory head unit, so replacing it means losing this function. In certain Saabs, the factory audio system cannot be replaced at all. Perhaps most importantly, it disrupts the beautiful dashboard design with a non-standard audio system.
The BT Changer module eliminates these issues. It can be installed at home and is much cheaper than replacing the head unit with a quality new one.
Development
The BT Changer is a hobby project of two Hungarian Saab enthusiasts. Development is ongoing, and our goal is to tailor the device’s functions even more to the users’ needs. We welcome all feedback regarding its operation. We will respond as quickly as possible, and you can find answers to many recurring questions in the FAQ. In the future, we plan to develop with other brands as well.