Maybe I missed something - what service could the theft alarm need
that you would not want to do?

Jo Anne,

Let me clarify my answer.

This "software fix" does not fix anything. It just merely stops the
SID (Saab Information Display) from informing you, the operator, that
TWICE(Theft Warning Integrated Central Electronics) unit has detected
a problem with the alarm system. What ever is wrong with the alarm
system will still be broken.

The alarm system may or may not operate as designed at this point.

Since you will need  the services of a technician with a Tech II
anyway, have him/her check for DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Code) in
TWICE. There may or may not be DTCs stored in TWICE's memory.

If there are DTCs, you would want to proceed according to the workshop
manual. If no DTCs are present, then your most likely culprit is a bad
Theft Alarm Siren Module.

There are generally 2 modes of failure. One is the internal batteries
fail. This was the reason for the campaign on the 1999-2000 models.The
module was not designed to have the batteries replace and Saab does
not sell spares for them. Their position is service by replacement.
Some people have been successful in locating and replacing these
batteries, but not all have been successful. You can do a search on
the 9-5 bulletin board on www.saabnet.com.

The second is an internal short due to water incursion into the
module. The module is located in the left front fender well under the
liner. You may be able to dry the unit out, but this will only be a
temporary fix at best.

Good luck,
Steve C