Saab 9-3 Problems and Repair Histories
Saab 9-3 problems reported via the Car Repair History and Car Reliability Surveys
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Saab 9-3
Saab 9-3s for which no problems have been reported are not displayed. So the Saab 9-3 problems and repair histories you see here should not be used to infer car problem frequency.
For Saab 9-3 problem frequency, check the Car Reliability Survey result. For the problems behind the score, check the Saab 9-3 problems and repair histories that follow it.
Saab 9-3 Reliability through December 31, 2012
General NotesModels and statistics marked with an asterisk (*) have very low sample sizes. These results, visible only to logged-in members, provide only a rough estimate of car reliability.Any result under 20 repair trips per 100 cars is likely a result of the small sample size, and should be expected to increase to 20 or so in future updates.
New models often start out with high repair rates, and then improve as the manufacturer identifies and addresses common problems. MethodologyOnly successfully completed repairs are currently included in the analysis. Routine maintenance, most wear items, recalls, and problems fixed with just a reflash or warning light reset are not included.
Non-members can see only ten Saab 9-3 problems and repair histories. Log in or join us to see them all.
Repair costs are in local units.
2011 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Tennessee, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Aug | 2012 | 770 | Stability Control Failure and Cornering Headlights Malfunction displayed on SID. Took car to dealership. Problem was with Steering Angle Sensor. Had to replace entire Column Integration Module. | |
2010 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon
turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in California, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Mar | 2011 | 0 | Right rear fixed glass was missing 8 inches of sealant. Recent downpour showed active interior dripping. Headliner, seat cushion, c-pillar, and carpeting soaked. Window sealed and interior parts only removed for drying. Mold not addressed | |
| Jun | 2011 | 0 | Repaired scratches from previous visit. Contractor performed on site air quality test for mold spores due to prior water infiltration. | |
| Saab 9-3 in Delaware, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| May | 2011 | 0 | Oil seeping through oil level sensor on oil pan. Dealer replaced sensor under warranty. | |
2010 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon
turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Virginia, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Oct | 2011 | 0 | Interior carpet slightly coming out of trim panel. Puddle light bulb burned out, replaced. | |
2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon
turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual AWD
| Saab 9-3 in Alberta, Canada | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Aug | 2011 | 0 | coil pack replacement, had check engine light and misfires Washer fluid hose leaking under hood, washer fluid nozzle leaking | |
2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon
turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual AWD
| Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Mar | 2010 | 0 | alignment | |
| Jan | 2011 | 0 | replaced power steering hose | |
| Mar | 2011 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in California, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Nov | 2011 | 0 | Repaired poor wiring in failed right rear tail light. | |
2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon
turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual AWD
| Saab 9-3 in Rhode Island, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Feb | 2010 | 10000 | First odometer entry | |
| Jun | 2010 | 15000 | 0 | Plastic trim loose on "b" pillar. Repaired under warranty @ n/c. Moonroof made chattering noise when opening to vent position. Lubricated and adjusted under warranty @ n/c. |
| Jan | 2011 | 22000 | 0 | Moon roof chatters when opened to vent position. |
| Jun | 2011 | 27000 | 0 | Coolant leak from turbo return hose. Tightened clamp. Power steering fluid leaking from steering rack and hitting exhaust manifold causing smell. Rack to be replaced under warranty. Part on order. |
| Jul | 2011 | 28000 | 0 | Steering rack replaced, four-wheel alignment performed. Warranty repair. |
| Sep | 2011 | 30000 | 0 | Replaced seal at rear of transfer case. Leaking oil onto downpipe causing burning oil smell. |
| Mar | 2013 | 47000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD
| Saab 9-3 in Maryland, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jan | 2010 | 13000 | First odometer entry | |
| Jun | 2010 | 18000 | 0 | Cruise control engaging on its own when driving on highway. Rear right window moved up and down slowly - parts were cleaned and window now operates like normal |
| Sep | 2012 | 36000 | 600 | Break assist was not working when car was started after no usage for over 8 hours. Pedal was very firm until pressure would return. This would take about 30 - 45 seconds after start of car and pumping of firm break. |
| Feb | 2013 | 37700 | 0 | Same issue I reported in October with braking. Lack of vacuum pressure after starting car leading to a very stiff pedal for 45 seconds. Part was finally available from Dealership - previous fix was temporary part replacement at independent. |
| Mar | 2013 | 38000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in California, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jan | 2010 | 9000 | First odometer entry | |
| Jun | 2010 | 12000 | 0 | Sunroof stop operating, it was a software issue with car computer; re-programed and fixed with that. |
| Mar | 2011 | 18000 | 0 | Brake light malfunction |
| Jul | 2011 | 19000 | 0 | Two brake light bulbs had to be replaced because they stopped working. My experience is that it took more than 10m due to the assembly being a bit difficult to take apart etc. |
| Oct | 2011 | 21700 | 0 | Pinch mechanism for power window out of alignment prevented driver window from closing completely. Re-calibration in less than one hour fixed problem. |
| Oct | 2012 | 29000 | 400 | Motor and belt for rear window driver side died and window would not come up. Replaced entire mechanism. |
| Mar | 2013 | 31000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
| Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jan | 2010 | 12000 | First odometer entry | |
| Jun | 2010 | 16000 | 0 | Shift between 1st and 2nd not smooth when engine/weather cold. Car has 6spd manal transmission. |
| Sep | 2012 | 54000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
| Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Feb | 2010 | 35000 | First odometer entry | |
| Jun | 2010 | 41000 | 0 | Housing for glovebox light melted by HVAC system |
| Dec | 2010 | 50000 | 0 | Faulty third brake light. |
| Mar | 2011 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon
turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Ohio, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Oct | 2007 | 5000 | First odometer entry | |
| Nov | 2007 | 6000 | 0 | Right rear turn signal lamp had failed. Rattle in rear interior of vehicle - cargo area. Rattle/vibration in drivers door panel - caused by audio system low frequency sounds. Rattle in rear interior of vehicle - from cargo area. Rattle/vibration in drivers door panel - caused by audio system low frequency (bass) sounds. |
| Dec | 2008 | 20000 | 0 | Radio making buzzing noise after warm. Low coolant lamp on at times. Dealer installed updated cool surge tank hose kit per TSB. |
| Jan | 2009 | 21000 | 0 | Radio replaced for buzzing noise - was diagnosed on prior service visit. |
| Jun | 2010 | 41000 | 0 | Drivers seat had a creak noise in lower seat cushion/frame area. |
| Jul | 2010 | 41000 | 0 | Seat creak from lower seat frame. Dealer tightened seat pivot bolt, but noise still there. Seatbelt pivot squeaking. Attempted to lube, but noise is still there so a new seatbelt needed to be ordered. |
| Aug | 2010 | 42500 | 0 | FINALLY got creaking seat belt replaced after continually trying to lube something that needed to be replaced. Third time would have been a charm, however they forgot to put this part on while fixing the seat and had to go back 4th time! Creaking seat was finally fixed (third visit). Dealer refused to replace seat, but took out and lubed "something." Seems ok, but have totally lost faith in dealers ability to fix anything right the first time. They are horrible. |
| Jun | 2012 | 62000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon
turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Colorado, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jun | 2007 | 0 | First odometer entry | |
| Jun | 2007 | 0 | Radio control button on steering wheel malfunctioned. Part was ordered June 15 or so. As of August 16, we are still waiting for it. Odometer did not cross 1,000 mile mark til July. | |
| Aug | 2007 | 3000 | 0 | Car would not start (cranked but did not catch). Indicator light said that theft was in progress, although it most definitely was not. Apparently start was disabled for this reason. Dealer updated software and problem has not yet recurred. |
| Sep | 2007 | 3000 | 0 | Radio part ordered mid-June finally arrived mid-September. Dealer installed it, and problem is fixed. |
| Nov | 2007 | 5000 | 0 | When the car was in the shop for the recall repair, the mechanics noticed that both tail light relays were bad. They replaced both. Wonder if I was driving around with no tail lights.... |
| Nov | 2008 | 11000 | 0 | Replaced passenger side tail light assembly. Wasn't actually friend or family who noticed the problem but rather a UPS driver who came up beside me and told me about the short in the light. There was no checkbox for that. |
| Jan | 2009 | 12000 | 0 | Took car in because one key would not open hatch. Mechanics discovered that driver's side tail light assembly had to be replaced. So now both tail lights on this car have failed in its first 1.5 years. |
| May | 2009 | 15000 | 330 | Went in for 2nd year annual service (warranty service). Mechanics discovered broken fender liners that needed to be replaced (I paid). I requested new wiper blades as the old ones were worn out (I also paid). |
| May | 2010 | 20000 | 0 | bad fuel level sensor broken shifter assembly and knob falling off, car did not go into reverse |
| Oct | 2010 | 21000 | 0 | Rear window driver's side fell down into door. Replaced window regulator. |
| Oct | 2011 | 26000 | 40 | Headlight |
| Jan | 2012 | 30000 | 60 | Another headlight |
| Mar | 2012 | 30000 | 0 | clutch slave cylinder |
| Mar | 2013 | 33000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon
turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Georgia, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| May | 2007 | 0 | First odometer entry | |
| Nov | 2007 | 5000 | 0 | Drive and passenger door panels had finish defect. Both were replaced under warranty. |
| Dec | 2008 | 17000 | 0 | Front light bulb replaced. Side marker bulb replaced. |
| Sep | 2009 | 24000 | 0 | Tail light out. Had to replace entire tail light assembly. |
| Feb | 2011 | 39000 | 0 | Steering lock failure. Replaced ignition key mechanism. |
| Apr | 2012 | 50000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Sep | 2007 | 2000 | First odometer entry | |
| Oct | 2007 | 4000 | 0 | Faulty window regulator, driver's side front. |
| Jun | 2011 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
| Saab 9-3 in North Carolina, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Dec | 2006 | 0 | First odometer entry | |
| Dec | 2007 | 17000 | 0 | cd player would not work |
| Jun | 2011 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon
turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in New Mexico, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Nov | 2006 | 0 | First odometer entry | |
| Mar | 2007 | 4000 | 0 | Rattle in the sunroof. Trimpiece had come loose. Reattached, issue fixed. |
| Jun | 2008 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon
turbocharged 150hp 1.9L I4 Diesel 6-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Northern Ireland | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jan | 2007 | 2000 | First odometer entry | |
| Oct | 2008 | 20000 | 0 | Alternator failed, successfully replaced at dealer. |
| Dec | 2008 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Florida, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Nov | 2006 | 0 | First odometer entry | |
| Jan | 2007 | 2000 | 0 | Rattle in the passenger door ; also was in for a Tech II personalization Door seal not flat Light sensing "ball" on the middle of the top of the dash had glue all over it |
| Apr | 2007 | 7000 | 0 | Replaced airvent due to rattle. Also tried to "tighten" up B pillar rattle. Rattles less noticable but still very present. Window seal was defective and bending away from the window. The seal was replaced a second time. |
| Sep | 2007 | 14000 | 0 | Rattles in dash and door buzzing on rough roads. Manual Shift knob fell off. Fading door panels. Peeling rubber from glovebox release button. |
| May | 2009 | 29000 | 0 | Rear-Driver's side window made clunking noise when moving. The problem was diagnosed as an issue with the regulator. Part had to be ordered. Ordered regulator again. New window regulator installed. |
| Dec | 2010 | 48000 | 0 | Passenger window clicking while going up. Window regulator found faulty and replaced. |
| Feb | 2012 | 60000 | 20 | Hood mounted washer sprayers stopped working. They had come apart under the hood. |
| Jan | 2013 | 68000 | 70 | Hard start condition after fuel fill threw CEL. Replaced EVAP fuel purge valve. |
| Mar | 2013 | 69000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in California, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Nov | 2006 | 7000 | First odometer entry | |
| Mar | 2007 | 9000 | 0 | rear seat belts lock up spuriously. Replacements ordered, installed a month later rear seat belts lock up spuriously. Replacements ordered, installed a month later |
| Mar | 2010 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Maryland, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Nov | 2006 | 8000 | First odometer entry | |
| Feb | 2007 | 10000 | 0 | Knocking sound coming from front suspension when cold. |
| Mar | 2007 | 11000 | 0 | Rattling from front end due to defective front suspension bushings. |
| Oct | 2008 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2005.5 Saab 9-3 2-door
turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD
| Saab 9-3 in Germany | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Dec | 2006 | 25420 | First odometer entry | |
| Nov | 2007 | 39060 | 0 | in-dash cd-changer sometimes not working |
| Dec | 2007 | 40300 | 0 | damaged pneumatic piston for bootlid-opener replaced under warranty Replaced sun blind passenger seat which had a small defect. |
| May | 2008 | 46500 | 0 | Pinch protection fault re-set. |
| Jun | 2008 | 46500 | 0 | Finally managed to replace in-dash CD-changer which was ordered earlier. Fully paid by manufacturer. Also fixed rattling a-pillar which occured after front-pane was replaced. |
| Sep | 2008 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2005 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Texas, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Oct | 2007 | 41000 | First odometer entry | |
| May | 2008 | 50000 | 0 | Noise from driver's front door. Door panel was loose and re-tightened. |
| Jun | 2008 | 50000 | 0 | Trim piece on glove box was replaced, and rattle in door and seat fixed. |
| Mar | 2010 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2005 Saab 9-3 4-door
turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD
| Saab 9-3 in Great Britain | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jan | 2008 | 49000 | First odometer entry | |
| Mar | 2008 | 50000 | 0 | Corroded and broken coil spring. |
| Apr | 2008 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
| Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Mar | 2007 | 11000 | First odometer entry | |
| Nov | 2007 | 20000 | 0 | Dash display occasionally showed "Steering lock malfunction - see dealer." Faulty ignition switch module was diagnosed and ISM was replaced. |
| Mar | 2010 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2005 Saab 9-3 4-door
4-cylinder automatic 2WD
| Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Mar | 2007 | 32000 | First odometer entry | |
| Apr | 2007 | 33000 | 0 | Rear Defroster system intermittently, dealer unable to daignoses and problem did not occur during visit. |
| Aug | 2007 | 38000 | 0 | No heat, air would be produced but, the air was not hot |
| Sep | 2007 | 38000 | 0 | No heat from the heater |
2005 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible
turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Great Britain | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Sep | 2007 | 43000 | First odometer entry | |
| Nov | 2007 | 48000 | 0 | Worn bushing on rear suspension arm. Suspension arm replaced. Passenger side wing mirror replaced because of cosmetic issue with wing mirror supporting bracket ~ couple of lumps appeared on surface. Motor was faulty (for mirror tilt option) so was replaced with a new motor when identified. |
| Mar | 2008 | 58000 | 0 | Broken front suspension spring |
| Jan | 2009 | 80000 | 330 | Steering control module failed and key transponder failed~ both replaced and keys reprogrammed. |
| Mar | 2010 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2004.5 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible
turbocharged 150hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Great Britain | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Apr | 2011 | 70000 | First odometer entry | |
| Jan | 2013 | 88300 | 80 | two new front anti roll bars |
| Apr | 2013 | 89000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
2004 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Texas, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Feb | 2007 | First odometer entry | ||
| Feb | 2007 | 0 | dealer paid to replace blower motor and blower relay that was not functioning properly. | |
| Jun | 2007 | 64000 | 0 | Sunroof behaving erratically; replaced switch. |
| Jul | 2007 | 68000 | 100 | Sunroof was acting erratically. They replaced the switch during my June visit, but the problem persisted. The second time in, they also replaced the sunroof wind deflector as they think that was messing up the pinch protection. |
| Jan | 2008 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2004 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jan | 2007 | 31000 | First odometer entry | |
| Feb | 2007 | 32000 | 0 | Noisy front suspension. Sway bars needed lubrication |
| Jan | 2012 | 102300 | 1000 | Broken spring |
| Jun | 2012 | 108000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
| Saab 9-3 in Arkansas, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Feb | 2007 | 17000 | First odometer entry | |
| Jul | 2007 | 19000 | 15 | Gearshift knob kept popping off the stick. This made it difficult to shift the car into reverse. Factory garage ordered the part after phone conservation. About a week later I drove to Tulsa (about 120 miles) and it was installed. I am satisifed with Off side dipped headlight burned out. Replaced with H7 bulb. No problems. |
| Aug | 2009 | 32000 | 8 | Passenger side low beam headlight burned out. Replaced H7 bulb. |
| Oct | 2009 | 32000 | 130 | Replaced rear brake pads. |
| Sep | 2010 | 35000 | 0 | Right turn signal working intermittently. Local shop could not replicate problem. |
| Oct | 2010 | 35000 | 1049 | Right turn signal working intermittently. Dealer replaced column integration module. |
| Mar | 2013 | 38000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
| Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jan | 2007 | 35000 | First odometer entry | |
| Mar | 2007 | 36000 | 0 | Fuel gauge |
| Apr | 2007 | 37000 | 0 | fuel pump |
| Jun | 2007 | 37000 | 0 | charcoal canister for fuel system |
| Mar | 2010 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2004 Saab 9-3 4-door
turbocharged 4-cylinder automatic 2WD
| Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Apr | 2007 | 44000 | First odometer entry | |
| Jul | 2007 | 47000 | 0 | Slight click on right hand turns |
| Dec | 2008 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
| Saab 9-3 in California, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jan | 2007 | 41000 | First odometer entry | |
| Apr | 2007 | 45000 | 300 | windows not rolling up correctly. burnt wire harness in headlamp. Squeaking belt from faulty belt tensioner. |
| Mar | 2010 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Ontario, Canada | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jan | 2007 | 44640 | First odometer entry | |
| Mar | 2007 | 46500 | 0 | "Gearbox Malfunction - Limited Performance - Contact Saab Dealer" error message displayed on SID. Cleared by dealer. |
| Apr | 2007 | 48360 | 100 | Power steering pump replacement. |
| Apr | 2008 | 62000 | 100 | 6-disc changer replaced. |
| May | 2008 | 62620 | 0 | Replaced 6 disc in-dash changer due to constant skipping. |
| Aug | 2008 | 63860 | 600 | Replaced the AC fan and amplifier a few weeks before I sold it, it had moisture build-up and had stopped working. |
2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan
turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in New York, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jan | 2006 | 0 | traction control problem, front end noise, and saab emblems looked to be coming apart | |
| Apr | 2006 | 0 | passenger side seatbelt warning light came on with no one in seat and front end noise from suspension. fixed the seat sensor, and still no fix for the front end noise. | |
| May | 2006 | 0 | fog lamp went out, rear seat release broke, driver side lumbar cable snapped, traction control issue again, and sunroof would close then go back open, staying in the open position. software fix for sunroof, replaced the lamp and fixed the lumbar in seat. | |
| Jul | 2006 | 556 | replaced front rotors and brakes, front end noise continues - no fix, interior knobs peeling, door handles faded, and alarm going off for no reason inside of garage. software for alarm, replace knobs, door handles, and lug nuts | |
| Oct | 2006 | 0 | window framing came apart in door and dent the door skin outward fortunatly the window was stuck up, new clutch assist spring put in and it broke and was squeaking, replaced window frame and spring. scheduled to get body work fixed. | |
| Dec | 2006 | 0 | front end noise still and issue - nothing. replace all control arms and still didn't fix the noise, had gotten really bad and now (jan 6 2007) still there. shift knob came apart and front passenger side door close sensor is bad saying the door is staying | |
| Mar | 2007 | 55000 | 350 | this car sucks goat balls. I had every light up front out when i took it to the shop. Every drive light the only thing that worked was on fog light i had replace one month ago. I did hire a lawyer and he got me three thosand dollars from saab because this |
| Mar | 2010 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2003 Saab 9-3 4-door
turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD
| Saab 9-3 in Missouri, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Dec | 2006 | 55000 | First odometer entry | |
| Feb | 2007 | 56000 | 0 | Throttle "helper spring" dislodged because the clip that holds it in place broke. I discovered it on the floorboard |
| Apr | 2007 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2003 Saab 9-3 4-door
turbocharged 4-cylinder automatic 2WD
| Saab 9-3 in Georgia, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Feb | 2007 | 61000 | First odometer entry | |
| Mar | 2007 | 62000 | 3000 | After replacing the fuel system module with its sensor and having a subsequent engine stoppage, the dealer reinstalled the ECM software. A week later the car stalled in traffic again and would not restart. Towed to dealer, dealer had to install another After fuel system module replacement, the car stalled on the road, had car towed to the dealership. The reflashed ECM based on diagonistics. Eventually in a later visit the ECM was replaced. Fuel gauge failed to report fuel level. Dealer reported fuel pump and module had to be replaced. |
| Mar | 2010 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2002 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch
turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Washington, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jul | 2010 | 96000 | First odometer entry | |
| Nov | 2010 | 100000 | 450 | Replaced failing crank position sensor |
| Jul | 2011 | 107000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
| Saab 9-3 in Ontario, Canada | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Apr | 2006 | 170 | New antenna. | |
| Aug | 2006 | 940 | New A/C and muffler repair. | |
| Nov | 2006 | 92 | Strut Mount | |
| Jul | 2007 | 600 | New alternator. | |
| Nov | 2007 | 100 | Coolant temp sensor. | |
| Apr | 2008 | 300 | Crank position sensor. | |
| Jul | 2008 | 400 | Brake caliper. Sway bar link. | |
| Aug | 2008 | 300 | New wheel bearing | |
| Dec | 2008 | 550 | New water pump. | |
| Jul | 2009 | 600 | Scan codes, filters and re-re a/c | |
| Aug | 2009 | 791 | New A/C | |
| Dec | 2009 | 136 | Replace and reseal rear tail light. | |
| Feb | 2010 | 1800 | New stainless steel exhaust, new pads and rotors on all four corners and new ball joint. | |
| Mar | 2010 | 300 | Rear window failure. Stays in down position. | |
| Aug | 2010 | 63860 | 500 | Front spring and control arm. Change spark plugs. |
| Mar | 2011 | 67580 | 200 | Replace parking brake cable |
| May | 2011 | 68380 | 300 | Other rear window stayed in down position. |
| Jun | 2011 | 68820 | 900 | New alternator |
| Feb | 2012 | 77480 | 150 | Washer pump not working. Check valve replaced. Key fob dead. |
| Nov | 2012 | 88940 | 500 | Idler pulley, oil pressure switch |
| Jan | 2013 | 91140 | 1200 | Need new clutch. Simply wore out. |
| Feb | 2013 | 92040 | 300 | Wheel bearing |
| Mar | 2013 | 93000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
| Saab 9-3 in North Carolina, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jul | 2010 | 90000 | First odometer entry | |
| Sep | 2010 | 95000 | 700 | bad bearing in alternator |
| Oct | 2010 | 97000 | 160 | Vehicles towed home, replaced crankshaft position sensor, charged battery, erased codes using OBD tool. Replaced 2 rollers in driver door window mechanism after one broke and disabled window operation. |
| Oct | 2011 | 111300 | 30 | Replaced coolant temperature sensor after CEL, no reading from temperature gauge. |
| May | 2012 | 120000 | 160 | Replaced DIC with a used unit, due to fault codes. |
| Jul | 2012 | 122300 | 720 | Replaced both front struts. Also replaced tires (wear items). |
| Nov | 2012 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
| Saab 9-3 in Texas, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jul | 2010 | 62000 | First odometer entry | |
| Sep | 2010 | 63000 | 1200 | AC compressor replaced |
| Jun | 2011 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2002 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch
turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Texas, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jul | 2010 | 76000 | First odometer entry | |
| Aug | 2010 | 77000 | 300 | Driver side rear window fell into the door |
| Sep | 2010 | 78000 | 800 | Replaced water pump Broken motor mount |
| Dec | 2010 | 79000 | 300 | Drivers window fell off track |
| Nov | 2011 | 83000 | 200 | Another burst hose |
| Dec | 2011 | 84000 | 15 | top radiator hose exploded |
| Mar | 2012 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
2001 Saab 9-3
Engine not specified
| Saab 9-3 in Queensland, Australia | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| May | 2011 | 142600 | First odometer entry | |
| Jun | 2011 | 142600 | 0 | Blowing white smoke out of exhaust, could be blown motor or turbo? Car sitting in garage |
| Jul | 2011 | 142600 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
| Saab 9-3 in California, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Feb | 2011 | 109000 | First odometer entry | |
| May | 2011 | 109000 | 0 | Major: engine would not start. Sometimes letting it cool down would make a difference. Spent $1,500 in January in failed repair attempt. |
| Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Oct | 2011 | 121000 | First odometer entry | |
| Nov | 2011 | 121000 | 0 | leaking water pump when sold (already replaced twice!) transmission on the way out A/C compressor has been non-functional for over 2 years |
2001 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch
turbocharged 185hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jan | 2011 | 158000 | First odometer entry | |
| Jul | 2011 | 166000 | 0 | Excessive metal shavings found in oil, billowing smoke, rattling during operation = engine failure. |
2001 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible
turbocharged 185hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in California, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Mar | 2011 | 59000 | First odometer entry | |
| Jun | 2011 | 61000 | 175 | crankshaft position sensor |
| Jul | 2011 | 62000 | 15 | halogen headlight out, driver's side |
| Sep | 2012 | 73000 | 300 | Oil pressure sender, and it leaked PC Valve failure |
| Feb | 2013 | 75000 | 900 | New radiator. R&R access is tough, so labor exceeded parts bill |
| Mar | 2013 | 76000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
2000 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch
turbocharged 185hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Colorado, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Apr | 2011 | 620 | Drill out & replace exhaust header bolt, replace antenna mast. | |
2000 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible
turbocharged 185hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD
| Saab 9-3 in Colorado, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Sep | 2009 | 750 | Water pump failure. Fan belts replacements | |
| Jun | 2010 | 160 | oil leaks in engine. Replace oil pressure sender | |
| Aug | 2010 | 1115 | REPLACE TRANS MOUNT,TRANSAXLE ASSEMBLY - Removal & Installation,(Combination) FLYWHEEL - Remove & Replace,OIL PAN GASKET - Remove & Replace | |
| Jan | 2011 | 495 | PERFORM ELECTRICAL TESTS/ FUEL PRESSURE TEST. FOUND FUEL PRESSURE IN SYSTEM. FOUND POWER FROM IGN. SWITCH. POWER TO IGNITION CASSETTE BUT FOUND NO POWER TO SPARK PLUGS. REPLACE IGNITION CASSETTE. | |
1999 Saab 9-3 4-door
turbocharged 4-cylinder automatic 2WD
| Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Apr | 2010 | 75000 | First odometer entry | |
| May | 2010 | 76000 | 200 | transmission bracket needed to be replaced |
| Jun | 2011 | 79000 | 1200 | Exhaust and muffler replaced. Major tune-up performed. Radio antena replaced/fixed. |
| Dec | 2012 | 83000 | Most recent odometer entry. | |
1999 Saab 9-3 4-door
4-cylinder manual 2WD
| Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Apr | 2010 | 89000 | First odometer entry | |
| May | 2010 | 90000 | 54 | window out of track |
| Sep | 2010 | 94000 | 800 | Engine running rough, then check engine light on. Computer reset and warning of future failure of (?) oxygen regulator. ignition assembly replaced oil lines leaking; rusted out |
| Nov | 2010 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
1999 Saab 9-3 4-door
4-cylinder automatic 2WD
| Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jul | 2009 | 140000 | First odometer entry | |
| Nov | 2009 | 143000 | 75 | Broken spring |
1999 Saab 9-3 2-door
turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD
| Saab 9-3 in Ontario, Canada | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jul | 2009 | 114700 | First odometer entry | |
| Sep | 2009 | 120900 | 2100 | failure of gas pump, as it was described by the mechanic valve cover gasket was "rebuild" some part of the car computer had to be replaced |
| Jul | 2010 | 133920 | 800 | part of the hydraulic clutch failed (the master cylinder). Part worth 220 $ and to replace it 7 hours labor. |
| Sep | 2010 | 136400 | 260 | replaced front ball joints |
| Jun | 2011 | Most recent odometer entry. | ||
1999 Saab 9-3 2-door
turbocharged 4-cylinder automatic 2WD
| Saab 9-3 in Connecticut, United States | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Aug | 2009 | 144000 | First odometer entry | |
| Sep | 2009 | 144000 | 0 | The convertible top started locking up until it finally blew the motor. The computer screen thru the years died little by little. Sold with this problem. The computer screen thru the years died little by little. Sold with this problem. Little plastic handles for the seats and buttons on the dash started falling off. Sold with this problem. |
1998.5 Saab 9-3 4-door
turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD
| Saab 9-3 in Spain | ||||
| Month | Year | Odometer (in miles) |
Cost | Problem/Repair Description |
| Jan | 2010 | 106020 | First odometer entry | |
| Apr | 2013 | 118420 | 0 | Air conditioning fan did not stop even after engine was turned off. It was necessary to disconect battery to stop it |
Expert Saab 9-3 Repair Advice
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