Saab 9-3 Saab 9-3

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Saab 9-3 repairs by problem area

Engine (32%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (4%)

Brakes and Traction Control (5%)

Suspension and Steering (16%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (28%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (9%)

Other (7%)

Chart based on 1972 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the Saab 9-3.

Saab 9-3 engine repair cost distribution

$2500+ (3%)

$1000 - $2499 (10%)

$500 - $999 (17%)

$100 - $499 (36%)

< $100 (33%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 526 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2010 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

1675 mi Oil seeping through oil level sensor on oil pan. Dealer replaced sensor under warranty. 

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2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

76000 mi

US $3400
car running rough, smoke billowing from under hood. Two different problems, coolant tank hose had burst, also, coil had failed, but replacing one coil only made another coil go, had to replace them all before car ran normally. 

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2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual AWD

22940 mi coil pack replacement, had check engine light and misfires 
40300 mi

C $350
P0306 Cylinder 6 misfire, rough idle replace coil pack on cyl. 6 again...due to rough idle and misfire causing check engine light. Previously replaced with same crap Delco part at dealer. Used Bosch part, seems to hsve solved issue. replace coil pack on cyl. 6 again...due to rough idle and misfire causing check engine light. Previously replaced with same crap Delco part at dealer. Used Bosch part, seems to hsve solved issue. 
47120 mi

C $100
Still trying to track down the misfire. 
50840 mi

C $600
Hesitation & misfires at WOT, coil pack faulty on cylinder 5. Replaced all 3 rear packs while it was apart. 
55180 mi Another Bad coil pack on cyl. 6, closest to the turbo. The turbo heat cooks this coil every 6 months. 
57660 mi Oil seepage from cold side of turbo charger, repeated check engine light for P0089, suction control valve stuck. 

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2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual AWD

43000 mi Exhaust rattle from catalytic converter 
53000 mi Needed all 8 intake valves replaced due to defective valves 
76000 mi

US $300
Replaced all 4 coils 

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2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual AWD

71000 mi

US $1200
CEL indicated issue with fuel system. Diagnosed as an impending failure in the fuel pump, which was replaced. 

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2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

55500 mi

US $2100
4 of the valves were bent, not sure exhaust or intake, needed to put in new valves and have everything machined for fit and tolerances 

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2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

106000 mi

US $1200
Timing chain guide broke and got into the sump damaging the crank reluctor ring. 

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2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual AWD

52240 mi

C $1100
Date: 04/04/2013 To: All Saab Service Bulletin Nbr: TA248-1108 Date: March 2011 
41540 mi

C $2000
Fuel pump failure 

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2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

33000 mi

US $150
Oil leak 
116000 mi

US $20
Reattached loose vacuum hose 

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2009 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

25900 mi

US $3000
Burned valve....While GM owned Saab they eliminated 6 year, 100,000 mile drivetrain warranty on 2009 cars and newer....called and they refused coverage even though very low miles. I've had other "issues" with GM and will not buy their cars. 
35100 mi

US $300
One of the spark plugs was bad and was replaced with new one. 

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2009 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

42000 mi

US $600
ignition switch replacement 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

165000 mi

US $200
replace coolant hoses 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual AWD

27000 mi Coolant leak from turbo return hose. Tightened clamp. 
47500 mi Replaced fuel pump under warranty, in response to Check Engine light. No driveability problems. 
49300 mi

US $530
Misfires. Replaced 3 coil packs & all 6 plugs. 
84000 mi

US $1500
Replaced fuel pump after eliminating fuel pressure sensor and computer. (Three trips.) 
41000 mi

US $45
Coolant leak. Mechanic tightened banjo clamp on coolant line into turbocharger. 
51500 mi

US $100
Miss, check engine code showed misfire in cylinder 5. Mechanic replaced spark plugs. 
58700 mi

US $550
Engine miss, various ignition related CELs. Replaced ignition coil packs and spark plugs. A known problem with SAABs with this engine. 
77000 mi

US $121
Engine was intermittently throwing a fuel pressure check engine light. My mechanic checked the fuel pump and the fuel pressure sensor and determined the sensor was the problem. He replaced the sensor and no more check engine light. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 255hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

125240 mi

C $250
Hose to coolant expansion tank split. Had to be towed home. Replaced both hoses, coolant tank and tank cap. 
129580 mi

C $130
Engine running rough, one coil needed replacing. Replaced spark plug also. 
140740 mi

C $300
Upper heater hose warn and leaking coolant. Part replaced. 
150660 mi

C $1
CEL triggered by two faulty ignition coils. Replaced all three rear coils myself. 
19220 mi

C $500
Vibrations observed at idle speed and also during high speed acceleration. Diagnosed engine misfiring and replaced one of the ignition coils and spark plugs. Repair costs rather expensive but at least problem solved. 
24180 mi

C $1000
Random low fuel pressure caused misfire and threw a CEL. Dealer ordered and replaced the fuel pump. Problem solved. 
33480 mi

C $80
Faulty ignition coil caused engine to misfire. Replaced the faulty coil by myself. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 255hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

117000 mi

US $65
Changed a bad Coilpack 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

112840 mi

C $201
Main thottle body, near butterfly, major clean-up 
127720 mi

C $125
Bad coil,plus others were old. Changed all 4. Worn spark plugs, changed all 4. Buyed the coil packs(mail order)before going to the garage. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

88660 mi

C $225
Intermittent hesitation on idle when starting the car (hot starts only) Replaced Crankshaft position sensor. Oil Change.(regular maintenance) 
96100 mi

C $350
Faulty ignition coils, replaced #1 and # 2. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

37200 mi

C $1000
Engine would shake and lose power. Scanner reading was Cylinder #2 misfire. Changed Plugs and back 3 ignition coils ... didn't fix it. Finally discovered rusted wiring connectors. Cleaning then + oxygen sensor cleaning solved it. 
42040 mi

C $550
Radiator coolant warning on dash. Topped up missing coolant but it would come back know in a few weeks. Noticed coolant stains on driveway. Took to garage to repair leak. Turned out to be a leaky water pump. Replaced pump 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual AWD

37700 mi Coolant leaking from damaged turbo coolant return hose, hose replaced. Coolant leaking from damaged return hose, hose replaced. 
38000 mi Coolant leak again after a couple of months, indication that coolant level is low due to leak from coolant tubing. 
63000 mi

US $118
Replaced engine torque rod bushing (P#-12777977) also added Powerflex insert for upgraded stability (Powerflex P#-PFF80-1220) 
64000 mi

US $700
Replaced leaking water pump and worn belt tensioner, belt was replaced as well. 
78000 mi

US $15
small coolant leak at coolant outlet reservoir (P#-12574373). Replaced with new gaskets, no more leak. 
118000 mi

US $25
Replaced belt and tensioner. Belt shredded half way on the freeway so had both replaced. Replaced EVAP Purge valve. Vehicle showed a code which suggested the valve was leaking. Replaced with AC Delco 214-1685 
124000 mi

US $250
Replaced rear transmission mount. 
124000 mi

US $250
Replaced water pump 
26660 mi

C $710
Replaced one coil. 
34000 mi Misfire under wide-open throttle. Mechanics could not reproduce the issue and no diagnostic codes so nothing done. Problem still present - I can reproduce at will. Same misfire under wide-open throttle. Mechanic still could not reproduce on road test. No diagnostic codes. Nothing done - advised to wait until it gets worse. Update: never went away completely, but later improved on its own. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 255hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

65000 mi

US $240
Dirty fuel injector causing cylinder misfire. 
17000 mi This was actually the third time brought in for the same problem, the "low coolant" warning light would come on signifying a leak. At first they replaced a couple of clamps, finally replaced a metal tube along with washers, solved prob. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 255hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

87000 mi

US $75
Coolant cap for overflow reservoir cracked, needed to be extracted and replaced. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

89900 mi

C $250
Seals between the head and the power steering pump and the vaccuum pump were changed, due to them leaking oil. 
108500 mi

C $100
Oil Pressure Switch was leaking. Part was replaced. 
114642 mi

C $220
Replace flex coupling in exhaust pipe. 
134540 mi

C $200
Replace Oil Feed Pipe to Turbocharger (leaking due to corrosion) 
135780 mi

C $220
Radiator was leaking at bottom corner due to corrosion of the crimping strips on the tank. 
139500 mi

C $500
I replaced the clutch. With transmission out, replaced engine rear main seal. 
47740 mi

C $100
Power steering fluid overfilling,gasket to engine leaking and filling power steering resevoir with engine oil.replaced gasket (had to find my own as saab doesnt sell) and replaced steering fluid as well since it was full of engine oil. 
56000 mi

US $800
The clutch was slipping in the winter, would stop slipping when car was warmed up. Eventually it got to the point where the clutch would slip going uphill. Replaced the flywheel, clutch, pressure plate, and throwout bearing. 
72540 mi

C $3000
Check Engine light was on.Intake valves in 1st cylinder worn and replaced.All other intake valves replaced also since also starting to wear and would cost a lot in labour to gain access again. 
117000 mi

US $415
Spark Plugs, wires, engine and passenger compartment filters. 
125500 mi

US $350
Cleaned oil sump and strainer - known Saab issue. Engine was not getting enough oil to top of engine causing missing and lack of power. Car runs great after this repair. 
70000 mi Balancer chain replaced due to vibration caused from chain jumping and putting the balancer out of sync 
130000 mi

US $700
Radiator 
130000 mi

US $2000
GM manufactured the car with soft intake valves that wear out prematurely. Don’t expect any help from them, you’re on your own for this repair. Thank you GM. 
18000 mi Kept loosing coolant. Dealer unable to find leak. Entire engine short block replaced. Heads reworked. I traded the car in after they repaired it 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

99550 mi

US $300
New fuel pump is very loud, not sure if this is just an annoyance for the aftermarket part or indicates a problem. Also OBD check engine warning multiple times for P0453 OBD-II Trouble Code: Evaporative Emission Control Pressure Sensor High Input. Have not had time to troubleshoot or repair. 
84700 mi

US $2400
Intake valves had worn excessively due to inferior quality valves used by GM in 2007 - 2009. SAAB nor GM has offered warranty support. Valve guides were also worn and replaced. 
167000 mi

US $160
Replaced rear muffler. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 180hp 1.9L I4 Diesel 6-speed manual FWD

31180 mi Car was shaking only when I was accelarating strongly. Manufacturer changed parts inside the engine. Problem solved 
90060 mi

€200
exhaust gas recirculation dirty. cleaned it. 
89280 mi

€500
problem returned about 10 days later. exhaust gas recirculation changed. 
102300 mi

€450
Turbo pipe failure. Had to be replaced. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

26660 mi

C $125
Coil malfunction 

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2008 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 255hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

60000 mi

US $275
Bad coil pack and one bad plug 
69000 mi

US $800
Elect fuel pump failed. Replaced in 2 hr. $ 590 for pump, $ 210 for labor. 
70000 mi

US $500
Cracked expansion tank for coolant. 
42000 mi

US $416
Car started running rough. Display indicated multiple problems. Replaced #4 coil module 
48000 mi

US $640
Water pump leaking. 
51000 mi

US $151
Check engine light. Replace vacuum check valve 
125500 mi

US $600
Check engine light and other items 
47500 mi

US $2600
Threw a diagnostic code for intermittent low fuel pressure. Replaced the fuel pump. 
88000 mi

US $1000
Two visits. One to fix a cracked EGR hose then a second trip to replace the EGR valve which failed after the hose was changed out. Low fuel pressure indicated from OBD-II. Replaced fuel pump. 
106000 mi

US $700
Worn sparkplugs. Engine stuttered on acceleration. Replaced cracked coolant expansion tank. 
116000 mi Coolant level dropped over and over again. Water pump replaced. Then more coolant level problems. Dealer discovered engine leaking coolant from both cylinder heads. At this point, we ceased work on the car and I traded its remnants. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 255hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

79800 mi

US $300
Replaced fuel pump because of ongoing performance problems with the original. New pump fixed the problem. 
86000 mi

US $30
Bad ignition coil 
55160 mi

C $40
hoses for overflow of radiator coolant were leaking fluid onto the motor creating smoke when hot. 
63860 mi

C $30
Had to replace the cap on the antifreeze overflow container. 
60760 mi

C $350
engine was running rough. turned out it was a solenoid that needed replacing. 
75640 mi

C $350
solenoid causing motor to run rough 
80600 mi

C $50
Replaced both hoses for coolant return to reservoir. 
84940 mi

C $500
vacuum hose connector leaking 

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2008 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

89800 mi

US $100
Warning light "Steering Lock Malfunction" Changed ignition switch and hot wired starter relay added start button. I can start and drive the car but repair is temporary work around I need a new module 
96000 mi

US $430
Engine died without warning . I coasted to a stop and could not restart. Called tow truck and took the car to a repair shop. Turns out that there was some electrical short in the ignition system caused by erosion of the insulation of some wiring. The diagnosis was difficult and took the technician several hours to trace. No new components were required. The faulty wire was replaced and clipped back into position 
102225 mi

US $1300
Vacuum pump was leaking oil; it was replaced with a new vacuum pump and seal. 
104000 mi

US $700
Replaced original ECM with remanufactured ECM 
58000 mi

US $1400
replaced noisy pulley tensioner 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

20000 mi Low coolant lamp on at times. Dealer installed updated cool surge tank hose kit per TSB. 
27000 mi Coolant reservoir replaced with newly improved tank. 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

81000 mi

US $1700
Fuel sensor failed 
40000 mi Replaced ignition switch. 
30000 mi Warning notice appeared in display notifying of a "Steering Lock Malfunction, Please make a safe stop.' Nothing locked, though, when mentioned this to the Dealer, a scan was run in the computer and the ignition switch had to be replaced. 
51760 mi Poor running due to failing sensors within the Throttle Body. Replaced part under powertrain warranty. 
3000 mi 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. 
55000 mi

US $120
Replaced ignitions switch - steering lock warning +12x 
97000 mi

US $2400
Valve replacement, New rebuilt head, etc. due to worn valves, hard cold starting 
109000 mi

US $200
Oil leaking from rear of engine. Shop replaced brake vacuum pump. Still leaking oil - will have to return to shop for next go-round. 
185000 mi

US $300
failed ignition coil 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

127720 mi

C $120
coils 
18600 mi throttle position sensor 
117800 mi

C $50
Overheated - coolant leak. Flushed + stopleak. 
127720 mi

C $100
Replaced oil vacuum pump for oil leak. 1hr repair. 
26000 mi Two drive belt pulleys replaced before anticipated failure - dealer said they would fail if not replaced. 
37000 mi inlet manifold replaced 
40000 mi Replace EGR valve 
64000 mi

£966
whistle from engine traced to where egr valve meets exhaust. renew egr radiator assembly from inlet manifold to turbo unit. some delay in parts supply & some faulty parts needed reorder. 
64000 mi

£510
diesel particulate filter failed 
99700 mi

US $500
oil regulator 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 150hp 1.9L I4 Diesel 6-speed manual FWD

81840 mi

A $100
EGR valve replacement. Codes showed intake leak, and vehicle was in limp home mode. Removed valve, was full of carbon and non-operative in open position. 
94240 mi

A $60
Swirled flap valve rod had fallen off. Required replacement with improved part. Was successful EGR valve required cleaning as had blocked due to SWirl flap valves failing 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

20000 mi Coolant reservoir was cracked.  
33000 mi Replaced faulty vacuum pipe. 
96000 mi Actually repair is not yet completed. My car is still in the shop. They cannot figure out how to regprogram the car to the ECM. ECM was on BO till the apocalypse. Dealer ended up taking it as a trade in. 
25000 mi Coolant tank leak. Replace coolant tank and leaking hose. 
47000 mi Replaced Evaporative line that was leaking. Took 20+ days as the part was backordered from Sweden. After repair, it turned out the evap Valve also needed to be replaced. 3-4 more days in the shop. 
60000 mi

US $50
engine coil replaced replace one engine coil 
74000 mi

US $50
Fuel pump 
89000 mi

US $47
faulty reservoir cap for the coolant. replace ignition coil 
106000 mi

US $15
leak on coolant hose 
107700 mi

US $450
replaced coolant tank and hoses due to leak 
13000 mi Coolant reservoir was cracked and leaking. This is a known defect. Tank was replaced with updated unit. 
57000 mi

US $150
Bad ignition coil (cylinder #6) replaced. 
86200 mi

US $250
Car misfiring under hard acceleration. Ignition coil pack replaced on cylinder 5. 
109000 mi

US $900
Engine occasionally "stuttered" when accelerating. Diagnosed as a failing fuel pump. Fuel pump replaced. 
114800 mi

US $150
Two ignition coil packs were misfiring and required replacement. Replaced all spark plugs at same time. 
192000 mi

US $75
Hoses on coolant tank developed leaks and required replacement 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

32000 mi

US $290
Ignition switch module failed, was replaced. 
62000 mi

US $800
coils failed 
42160 mi

C $1500
Car would not start. -30 outside. Battery exploded and key would not unlock. Required a new set a keys and ICM (?) module. Car needed to be towed to a garage. 
112920 mi

C $100
A pinched coolant hose leaked coolant all over the engine bay while driving, requiring the replacement of a hose. 
119060 mi

C $600
Coolant tank cracked, replaced with improved oem metal tank 
125640 mi

C $500
Coil packs and plugs. 
132680 mi

C $1500
Spark plugs, coilpacks replaced Coolant hoses rotted 
146940 mi

C $1000
Fuel pump oil pressure sensor 
21080 mi coolant reservoir tank leaks, replaced by Saab instruction modification 260-2722. 
68200 mi

US $340
One failed coil made the engine run rough. 
77000 mi Another ignition coil failed, so the remaining five coils that were not replaced in April were replaced this time. 
121000 mi

US $1250
new clutch 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

39680 mi

C $2
The aluminium heat deflector under the trunk was loose and knocking when hitting road bumps. 
62000 mi

$450
Car took a long time to start, in the mornings or when it was not running for more than 15 mins. I was not able to get it fixed 
103000 mi

US $60
Engine stumbling badly at idle during cold start. Replaced all spark plugs with NGK PFR6T-10G plugs. Added SeaFoam to fuel tank. Problem cleared up over the course of a week. 
55000 mi

US $800
Throttle Position Sensor failed 
93000 mi

US $1200
Worn intake valves. Valves were not hardened properly from the factory. Caused hard/rough start problem. Intake valves were replaced to correct. 
94300 mi

US $200
Turbo was leaking boost into the crankcase and causing excessive oil consumption. May have been due to fault in reinstallation of turbo from previous work. 
70660 mi

C $300
Thermostat was malfunctioning 
105400 mi The car was stuttering under any gas. Could not continue to drive. Had to have car towed to mechanic. $600 later it was identified + fixed as spark plug problem. 
105400 mi

C $1700
The check engine light flashing. Car did not have any power. 3 of the coils had to be replaced. 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

70000 mi

US $120
The ignition control module (the key switch) failed, causing the common "steering wheel lock malfunction" error to appear every few minutes. 
79000 mi

US $400
Slow coolant leak fixed by replacing hoses and fittings 
82000 mi

US $95
An ignition coil failed and was replaced while deciding whether to fix the low compression or sell the car. This model is notorious for an "intake valve wear" flaw. This car is slow to start when cold and has a rough idle. A compression test revealed poor cold compression, consistent with failing intake valves. 
58000 mi

US $500
Ignition Control Module (ICM) died. Needed to be replaced. Electronic Ignition problem 
87000 mi

US $169
drive belt needed to be replaced - it broke when removed it was so dry - it was the original one that had to be replaced - also an oil change 
51000 mi

US $200
Very small coolant leak, radiator was replaced. 
78700 mi

US $150
Fuel pump and gas gauge sending unit replaced. 
29000 mi Strange wheel lock malfunction messages for weeks. One day car would not start. Towed car to dealer. Battery replaced. Wheel lock malfunctions start again. Taken back to dealer and ignition is replaced. Problem fixed. 
122000 mi It was also consuming a large amount of oil, roughly a Quart per 1,500 miles, and I was told that it was likely the turbo fan seal that was leaking, as the car was not indicating signs of burning oil. 
55600 mi

C $80
Also, secured muffler heat deflector. 
50000 mi Replace Catalytic converter under Warranty; appointment canceled 
55180 mi Replaced Catalytic converter under Quebec 8 Year Warranty 
78120 mi

C $350
Heat Sensor module defect. 
72000 mi

US $127
Catalytic converter bolt came loose causing loud ringing sound. Had to pay $127.00 for diagnostics. Also stalling. Needs engine software update and spark plugs and 60k mile service done. I'm the second owner. Love it to death. 

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2007 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

44000 mi Loss of coolant at hose to the Coolant tank, Coolant tank replaced under recall. Gas cap replaced and brake fluid reservoir cap replaced, replaced tires, broken belt. 
124000 mi

US $1200
ignition coils replaced 
15000 mi

US $500
Coolant resevoir leaked and needed to be replaced, this was a known problem but with Saab out of bussiness it was on my dime....... 

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2007 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

79000 mi

US $125
Replaced the ignition switch module in center console to correct Steering Wheel Lock alert being thrown 

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2007 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

103000 mi

US $1597
Replaced failed PCV valve 
124694 mi

US $800
Replace spark plugs 
74400 mi

US $350
Fuel pump failed. 
75000 mi

US $100
Serpentine belt failed. 
104000 mi

US $200
Crankshaft position sensor replaced. 
108300 mi

US $350
Replace cooling fans and controller. 
45000 mi Check engine light 02 sensor replaced Check engine light 02 sensor replaced 
63000 mi

US $24
Replace tensioner pulley 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

8000 mi My coolant container had cracked, leaking coolant out. I noticed it because the "Low Coolant" light came on. They replaced the container and all is well. 
11000 mi There was a leak in the heater core. The dealership ordered in a new one and replaced it. 
15000 mi The engine revs a little too high on cold start. It returns to a regular rev when in gear. They replaced... something... but it didn't fix the problem. I'll take it in again at some point again. 
34000 mi I ran out of gas one day, even though the gauge showed that I still had 1-2 gallons. When I brought it in to the shop, they said that running it that low on fuel caused the fuel pump to go. They replaced it, and my gauge is now registering correctly. 
89700 mi

US $220
Ingniter on one of the spark plugs required maintenance 
84000 mi

US $234
evap purge valve $386 
79500 mi

US $400
Vacuum leak 
87000 mi

US $150
Faulty oil pressure sensor was causing the car to report low oil pressure upon start up and when heavy acceleration was called for. Intercooler pipe clamps loosened which caused the car to go into limp home mode and display trac control, elec slip pgm and gearbox malfunction errors. 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

54000 mi Coolant expansion tank cap replaced. 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

47000 mi Slow coolant leak that required refill ~every month. Problem diagnosed as leaking banjo fitting, part ordered. 
118000 mi

US $1170
Check engine light came on and diagnosed as failed ignition coil. All four ignition coils and spark plugs replaced. 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

53200 mi Check engine light on but no error message from computer. Told it was a hot weather related problem and light was reset.  
65000 mi

US $240
Bad coil pack caused engine to misfire. Coil pack replaced. 
196000 mi

US $80
OIl leak from valve cover. 
212000 mi

US $400
Thermostat stuck open. Stalling under heavy acceleration caused by leaking valve cover gasket soaking plugs/wires with oil. 
225000 mi

US $900
Ignition coils replaced 
108000 mi

US $118
Water pump was leaking. Replaced water pump. Drained and refilled coolant. 
156500 mi

US $191
Fuel pump failed. Fuel pump replaced. 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 150hp 1.9L I4 Diesel 6-speed manual FWD

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

102000 mi

US $250
Replaced purge valve. 
35000 mi Once again, small coolant leak noticed. Given some B.S. explanation that it was normal. Topped off coolant. 
40000 mi Coolant still leaking. Decided to replace the coolant tank and cap. 
42000 mi Cooling fan stuck on high, even when car was shut off. Fan would run until low voltage safety shut it off, killing the battery. Replaced battery and made software change for fan. This is the third battery in two years. 
44000 mi Intermittent rough idle, to the point that it has died a few times. Not consistent, difficult to predict, and not repaired. Dealer indicates several other aeros with similar symptoms. GM Tech Assistance engaged with no result. 
45000 mi Rough idle continues. Dealer still cannot duplicate. Opened TAC case with GM. 
45000 mi New coolant reservoir. Also new spark plugs. 
57040 mi Check engine light came on, dealer said there is a problem in fuel pump, fuel pressure is low. 
58280 mi coolant tank 
62000 mi

$600
radiator cap leaks from time to time 
75020 mi Smell of coolant appear after shutting the engine, 
75020 mi engine take long time to start after refulling, fuel pump pressure is weak. 
128300 mi

US $55
I replaced leaking coolant hoses from tank that run over top the turbo shield Part# 12842478 & 12842477 and 4 hose clamps. Check engine light for faulty boost control valve. Replaced boost control valve part # 12787706. I bought the kit from the GM dealer at less than Saab sells the valve itself so I got the three vacuum lines with the valve. 
155000 mi

US $100
Replaced the hard vacuum line, vacuum noise on start up is quiet. Resolved the check engine code as well. 
164074 mi

US $1000
Codes P0300, P0202 and P0302 stored/reset. Replaced spark plugs, boost control valve cylinder 2 fuel injector and intake manifold gasket.  Replaced ECU with used unit.  
169000 mi

US $600
Replaced fuel computer that I had to source used for $200 because the OEM replacement was not available and is year specific at $925. Replaced all 6 coils. The Indie mechanic let me buy the Bosch coils at a 50% savings to me. 
46000 mi

US $60
New starter, new flywheel. 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

143000 mi

US $20
Coolant Cap broke. Had to order a new one and replace. 
68000 mi

US $70
Hard start condition after fuel fill threw CEL. Replaced EVAP fuel purge valve. 
101000 mi

US $50
Engine was displaying multiple codes P2300, P2303, P2306, P2309, P2312, and P2315, indicating "ignition coil short to ground" for each cylinders 1 - 6. Attempted the following repairs: - Replace spark plugs and ignition coils - Replace main relay - Cleaned and soldered all splices in wiring harness on '+' side to ignition coils. - Cleaned and soldered ground and +12V splices throughout the wiring harness from the battery/fusebox to ignition coils - Cleaned ground connections G7F and G7R, and verified low resistance to battery terminal from each - Used a micro-ohmeter to test resistance from ground to pins 3 and 4 of each coil connector. Found 3 that were suspect (20+ m? vs 10m? for other pins) and replaced the coil connectors. None of these things corrected any of the codes, although I'm sure they didn't hurt. Ended up getting a stage 0 tune from Vermont Tuning, which I HIGHLY recommend. Before applying the tune we logged data and there was no data to suggest that the codes were 'real'. The codes came back after the tune was applied (and data logged and observed again), so a custom tune was made to block them out since all voltages and data look good. 
20000 mi Replaced expansion tank - second time. 
25000 mi Coolant tank replaced (third time). 
25000 mi Coolant tank replaced (fourth time). 
70000 mi ECM ordered. ECM installed, didn't fix problem. Ignition coils, vacuum line and spark plugs replaced - no cost under certified warranty. 
73000 mi Replaced fuel pressure sensor 
89800 mi Replace fuel pump 
94500 mi Coolant leak - replaced coolant tank 
100000 mi

US $140
CEL came on - code ME9 P0089-00. Checked fuel pressure regulator - no problem 
100800 mi

US $332
replace canister purge valve 
103000 mi Replaced coolant tank 
44000 mi replaced cracked coolant reservoir bottle 
9000 mi coolant expansion bottle was leaking when coolant expanded, dealer replaced expansion bottle 
19000 mi coolant expansion bottle was leaking when coolant expanded, dealer replaced expansion bottle. Successful repair. 
31000 mi radiator coolant expansion bottle cracked and leaking, repeat problem 
132800 mi Radiator cooling fans not operating properly, very difficult to work on. 
147000 mi

US $800
Fuel pump non operational, fuel pressure sensor non operational system replaced. 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

72200 mi

US $20
passenger window would not go all the way up. Random stops. Dealer reprogrammed safety stopping points 
70100 mi

US $130
Crankshaft Position Sensor failed. Car limped to a nearby garage. 
161000 mi

US $100
Ecu replacement 
207000 mi New spark plugs 
207000 mi

US $15
Replaced engine gasket on short block 
170000 mi

US $1200
ECU went bad. Saab mounted these on top of the exhaust manifold. Not a great place. Many people have dead cars and need an ECU 
81000 mi

US $10
Car was losing coolant. The leak was determined to be a faulty radiator cap. The cap had to be ordered and delivered the next day, but the repair took $10. ID'ing the problem took less than an hour with a pressurization check. 
119000 mi

US $300
Vacuum pump had a small oil leak the last 10,000 miles. Replaced it for $300 and resolved the problem. Car ran fine with the repair needed, risk of bad smell of oil burning was only concern. 
123400 mi

US $80
Oil consumption was slightly elevated. Shop took care of it by blowing carbon off of the cylinders and valves. Consumption was resolved. 
129700 mi

US $150
Oil leak around oil level monitor. Oil sensor rubber seal replaced. Check engine light came on. Shop reset it. My guess was correct about an engine misfire. Solved it with $28 fuel spark plug cleaner and a full tank of premium fuel. 
77000 mi

US $194
SID showing braked system failure and speedometer stopped functioning. Dealer found a service bulletin requiring re-flash of ECM. Successfully corrected problem. 
32860 mi

C $200
Mass Airflow sensor cleaned 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

129000 mi

US $20
Thermostat stuck partially open (was replaced 6 mo prior) and I replaced it in 30 min at my apt complex 
146000 mi

US $75
Ignition coil failed, causing misfire. Repair was $75 for the coil, 5 min to replace 
187000 mi

US $180
Radiator developed a leak, needed to be replaced 
27000 mi I noticed coolant loss (but did not see where it was going--a very small leak), took it to the dealer and they added UV dye to the coolant. They told me to bring it back later to have them check to see if they can find where it is leaking. 
33000 mi Saab directed the dealer to replace the shortblock to resolve the coolant loss issue. 
34000 mi Oil leak from engine. Shop sprayed leak detection powder on engine to isolate source on Friday, then told me to bring it in on Monday. 
36000 mi Dealer determined that turbocharger oil pipe is leaking. Replaced turbocharger oil delivery pipe which fixed the oil leak. 
103000 mi Replaced fuel cap to correct P0456 code 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 150hp 1.9L I4 Diesel 6-speed manual FWD

£300 egr valve faulty - replaced 
£500 inlet manifold replaced - known issue but still had to pay - replaced 

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2006 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

104700 mi

US $100
Oil sensor leak 
59300 mi Expansion tank hoses needed to be replaced. known issue, 
61500 mi

US $2600
Check engine light code indicated fuel pressure out of spec. Replace sensor and pump. $1600 for both 
67000 mi

US $1300
Since July 2014 car had been missing at idle. No problems under load. Problem not reproducible when brought into shop during Sept 2014. Problem set CEL Dec 2014. Codes P0300, 0301,0303,0305,0306. Misfires. Replaced all ignition coils. 

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2006 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

82300 mi

£230
radiator hose burst 
107000 mi

£20
Burst radiator hose 
30000 mi

US $585
Fuel pump delivering inconsistent output pressure triggering CEL and stuttering at idle. Replaced fuel pump. 
12000 mi Replaced expansion tank and coolant. 
30000 mi vacuum hose replaced 
33000 mi Low coolant light appeared. Coolant tank replaced. Key became hard to remove from ignition. Ignition switch replaced. 

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2006 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

45000 mi Faulty ignition coil. Ordered and installed replacement. 
130700 mi Engine oil leak. Removed subframe brace and cleaned lower end of engine to determine source of leak. Faulty seal at oil pan to engine block. 
143000 mi

US $75
Oil leak at sump gasket surface. Removed oil sump, cleaned surfaces, reinstalled. 

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2005 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

56000 mi

US $35
CEL leaving car in Limp Home mode randomly. MAF sensor code. Cleaned sensor = good for a few days but came back. Replaced air cleaner and cleaned sensor cured problem for good. 
87000 mi

US $120
Car was going into limp mode randomly with CEL. Read code for MAF sensor. Replaced sensor. 
53196 mi

US $4000
Broke a ring on a piston,removed engine and installed engine out of a 2006 saab 9-3 with 10,000 less miles than original engine. 

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2005 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

81000 mi Replaced Thermostat and Engine temp sending unit, due to irregular readings and no heat. 
96400 mi

US $100
flex joint cracked, replaced exhaust with performance exhaust 
134800 mi

US $175
Replaced Boost bypass Control solenoid and Boost bypass Valve 
75000 mi

US $202
Check Engine Light - Code P0172 (fuel trim too rich) and P0300 (random misfire). Tried cleaning throttle body, MAF/MAP sensors, and fuel system treatment with no success. Shop diagnosed as bad fuel pressure regulator - replaced. 
79000 mi

US $35
Fuel pressure regulator had gone bad. This price included diagnosing the issue, new OEM replacement part, and installation. ECM failed. Symptom was a recurring check engine light (P0687) that would reappear immediately after being cleared. Purchased new ECM from eeuroparts.com, and had local Saab independent shop install. Price includes core charge credit. 

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2005 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

105000 mi

US $741
Water pump was leaking so it was replaced. 
67000 mi

US $1225
Replaced water pump and thermostat 
117800 mi Wire from ECU to main fuse box broke, causing alarms to come up. ECU is in bad place, under the front wing, water is getting in to it very easy. 
76200 mi Coolant leak apparently because of a manufacturing flaw in all-aluminum engine. Kept refilling but then low coolant warning would come back. Engine block was replaced with an aluminum and steel block. 

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2005 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

14210 mi unlatched exhaust clip reattached. 
39000 mi

US $64
turbo bracket bolt missing 
94860 mi

€1000
Car was stuttering for a while till it failed to start or started after a few hours. Diagnosed an EGU Valve replacement. Shortly after,within two weeks, the cars electrics stopped. Diagnosed an Alternator failure and replaced one. 
75000 mi

US $780
Serepentine belt replacement. Front crankcase seal replacement. 
108400 mi

US $1100
Radiator slow leak, due to rust on lower radiator body where side frame joins aluminum fins. 
112100 mi

US $40
Water pump showing signs of leaking. Added stop-leak treatment to coolant, hoping this will buy some time before pump needs to be replaced. 
134300 mi

US $80
Serpentine belt that powers alternator worn. Belt was original equipment. 
95000 mi

US $140
Rear muffler rusted out, replaced everything from the catalytic converter back. NH uses too much salt on the roads. 

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2005 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

81200 mi car lost some power, TEC II detected vac leak in gas cap, dealer replaced cap at no cost.  
114000 mi

US $20
Welded loose heat shield. 
146000 mi

US $1300
No start when cold. ECU replaced 
161000 mi

US $350
replaced leaking intermediate pipe along with gasket and clamp 
106000 mi

US $174
Thermostat required replacement. Replaced the air filter while it was in the shop ($44 of the total $174 for this repair). 

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2005 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

76560 mi

C $200
throttle cleaning 
101060 mi

C $50
Tail pipe replacement 
101680 mi

C $260
Flex pipe replacement 
103540 mi

C $325
Replacement of muffler and exhaust tips 

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2005 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

98000 mi

US $3000
During the replacement of the tranny the motor mount was done. During the replacement of the tranny we found the radiator busted and needed replacement 

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2004 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

53300 mi

US $800
failed balance shaft chain tensioner and guide 
54000 mi

US $800
replaced CIM 
47000 mi Gas Cap replaced 
75000 mi

US $340
Ignition Control Module replaced 
85500 mi

US $1600
Turbo replaced. Clogged oil return line. Turbo replaced. Clogged oil return line. 
99000 mi

US $65
changed out the expansion tank. now no longer losing coolant. 

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2004 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

106000 mi

US $215
VACUUM PUMP REPLACES TIME IT TOOK ME WAS AROUND 40 MINUTES, 10 DAYS TO RECEIVE THE PART 
88200 mi

US $220
replaced coolant resevoir and put in new coolant. no big deal. Changed coils and spark plugs. also oil change 
88000 mi

US $1100
Mechanic noticed excessive engine vibration/noise while driving vehicle. Belt tensioner needed to be replaced. 
108000 mi

US $140
Gearbox Malfunction Limited Performance Contact Dealer I was unable to shift car into reverse. Car was towed to dealership that was unable to duplicate problem. Computer resetting eliminated the warning display and problem hasn't reoccured. 
79000 mi

US $3000
Water pump failed, engine coolant leaked. 
29210 mi Car flat-bedded to dealer due to failed ECU - car wouldn't start - ECU replaced, reprogrammed. 
31654 mi Trouble starting car - reads "Immobilizer failure - Restart car - Contact dealer" - dealer finds nothing wrong. 
32930 mi "Immobilizer failure - Restart Car - Contact Dealer" reoccurs. Unable to remove key from ignition and car will not crank. Eventually find slamming driver door resets computer and key is removeable. 3 tries and car starts. Delivered to dealer with erro 

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2004 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

89280 mi

C $2000
Water pump leaking - replaced it. 
59000 mi Head gasket. 

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2004 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

169200 mi

US $750
Fuel pump died while on highway. Had towed to mechanic. 
60000 mi

US $100
CEL was coming on intermittently so they changed a gasket on the gas cap, since the fault code was emission related. They also gave me a new gas cap in case the old gas cap was the actual problem. 
51000 mi Fan motor switch only work at one stage and would not shut off even after engine turned off. 
93000 mi

US $600
Heating and cooling fan motor stopped working. No motor was found in the USA at this time because of change of company filling orders. Car still in shop. 
121500 mi

US $350
Crank Position Sensor went bad. Car wouldn't start. 
126000 mi

US $100
A warming light came on telling me that I had a gearbox error. They updated the computer and the problem resolved. 
135000 mi

US $363
Check engine light came on. Was faulty Crank Position Sensor and Faulty Gas Cap. 
85000 mi

US $390
had code indicating vapors leaking from tank, smoke test indicated leak in top of tank, dropped tank and repaired, tech stated looked like fuel pump was installed and did not seal correctly 
40000 mi

US $45
Power steering reservoir was leaking. This is a sign of a failed power steering pump seal. It is driven directly from the crank and engine oil seeps into the PS fluid. Part was $5 and 1 hour of labor. 
107000 mi

US $1452
Water Pump leaking. Replaced water pump and coolant. Also replaced serpentine belt and tensor and thermostat while water pump was replaced. 
19915 mi replaced Idler pulley and stepper motor 
28712 mi 30k scheduled.. Also, replaced belt tensioner, ACC belt, and all rusted lug nuts 
74000 mi

US $150
Mass air flow tube broke away from its anchor causing a hole in the tube creating an engine code and lack of driveability. 

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2004 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

43400 mi

C $600
Oil was leaking from the cam shaft. A seal was replaced 
58000 mi

US $1200
Fuel pump failed, was replaced. 
47000 mi Engine cranks with no run, replaced crankshaft sensor. Passed on scam replacement of spark plugs. Told they were fouled from no run cranking. What BS! 
81000 mi

US $106
when temp above 80F, warm engine will crank but not run. Changed crank sensor. Problem NOT fixed! 
81000 mi car continues to crank but not run every other week. wait 10 min to one hour then it starts. 
90000 mi The problem was never fixed to as new status, The dealer was able to program a used(2005) ECU to run and start reliably but the turbo boost was never as new. No dealer wants to maintain an orphaned car. It got great gas mileage in limp mode though. 
47000 mi Leaking crankshaft seal, repaired under warranty. Pulley and serpentine belt also replaced as they were saturated with oil. 
48000 mi Car stalled and would not start. Dealer replaced engine management computer under warranty. 
96700 mi

US $258
Replaced Expansion Tank due to leaky 'nipple' that connects to hose. 
110000 mi

US $400
Leaking coolant hose replaced. 
175000 mi Clutch went, simply worn out due to miles. Sold car to dealer instead of repairing. 

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2004 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

169000 mi

US $500
engine sensor (not able to start the car) 
172000 mi Apparently there is coolant leak somewhere but both my mechanic and dealer couldn't find out what is wrong. I have to refill the coolant everyweek. 
120000 mi

US $20
two coils replaced 
123100 mi

US $120
Replaced another coil 
158000 mi

US $300
Replaced all four engine mounts 

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2004 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

94860 mi

C $800
Change CIM and steering wheel lock and ignition switch 
59520 mi

C $30
Vacuum pump was leaking oil. Replaced the vacuum pump gasket and put silicone on the one inside the pump housing. A bit messy but a cheap fix. 
65720 mi

C $200
Replaced exhaust brackets. 
87000 mi

US $40
leaking valve cover gasket 
105000 mi

US $680
ECU Failure, No start condition Throttle Body Position sensor Fail 
14500 mi Losing coolant. Coolant reservoir and reservoir cap replaced. 
168000 mi

US $300
Car would shutter upon full boost, gas gauge inop. Replaced fuel pump and spark plugs at approx $300 
179300 mi

US $45
Check Engine light came on, and car lacked power. Pulled a code for Boost Controller Malfunction. Replaced Boost Controller, issue solved. 
57000 mi

US $1297
Also Ignition Switch Module that controls remote activity and monitors ignition position, also 2 remote transmitters.  

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2004 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

63300 mi

US $950
Water pump was noticed by oil change mechanic over a year ago to have a small leak. Car suddenly and frequently required more anti-freeze. Took in to dealer for water pump replacement. 
64000 mi Low coolant level light came back on and coolant level had dropped since water pump replacement. Dealer pressure tested it overnight and could not find leak. Said if it happens again they will dig deeper. 
65000 mi Same problem - low coolant level. Dealer can't find where the slow leak is coming from. Did another pressure test on cooling system. 

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2004 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

92380 mi

A $150
Diagnose coolant leak. They said it was most likely an internal leak. They wanted more time to check it out, I said no since it would probs be expesnsive. 
92380 mi Coolant leak never found. 

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2003.5 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 150hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

141200 mi

£200
EGR Solenoid 
144800 mi

£250
Inter-cooler fail, required replacement 

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2003 Saab 9-3

Engine not specified

188000 mi

US $150
Coil Pack replacement 
151000 mi

US $950
replaced radiator, 500 
166000 mi Secondary air injection pump Exhaust mounts rusted out and was barely hanging on. 
51000 mi

US $700
Changed Exhaust parts and reset ECU program by Tech II machine. 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

97000 mi When sold an air intake problem caused the car to severely shudder (and almost stall out) during heavy acceleration. 
208000 mi

US $600
oil leak. Noticed oil on driveway after parking car. Shop said it was a common problem on my car. said oil was actually leaking into power steering fluid.. which made sense since my steering had also been "off" during leak. 
258000 mi

US $500
water pump broke 
66960 mi

€80
Replaced boost control valve 
73160 mi

€150
Engine mount 
78000 mi

US $45
hooting noise from turbo when letting off accelerator. Due to a valve on the turbo. Put stock air filter back in(took out K&N) and it helped reduce hooting(pssst) noise when presure is released. Also have a squeeky AC fan. 
75000 mi

US $1100
emissions air pump 
67000 mi

US $480
The check valve for the SAI pump did not work. The fuel pump sensor had to be replaced. 
84000 mi

US $100
One of the ignition coils stopped working and had to be replaced.  
55100 mi

US $788
Secondary Air Injection pump and check valve had failed. They were replaced. 
117000 mi

US $100
SAI Cutoff valve 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

139800 mi

US $150
Weeping radiator from plastic fins on both driver and passenger sides. Ordered replacement radiator, installed by self. 
155000 mi

US $55
Lower oxygen sensor failed 
158000 mi

US $42
Brake booster vacuum line had rotted away from power steering pump leak. Replaced part with new part supplied by dealer. 
81000 mi Main seal leaking 
62000 mi

C $300
Visited shop for spark plug change, routine. Since then, engine rough idle. Apparently cylinder/valve damage after spark plug routine change. Vehicle at shop ever since, 2.5 weeks. Due to cost, adjustor has to authorize repairs. 
63240 mi

C $100
Replaced engine w/ used one. due to cylinder 3 & 4 damage. cylinder 3 was damaged in shop, cylinder 4 was damaged during a previous visit.  
70680 mi Coolant level dropped twice in 2 weeks to warning level. Shop not able to find leak, used dye in coolant and returned 1 week later, still no evidence of leak. Told to keep eye on levels. No repair, no cost. 
93300 mi

US $120
loose exhaust heat shield 
64187 mi

$60
intake pressure sensor 
72736 mi

$300
preheating oxygen sensor replacement 
74957 mi

$175
water temp. regulator coolant coolant reservior  
75956 mi

$170
rear oxygen sensor replacement 
78120 mi

$7172
check engine light on due to oxygen sensor voltage low check engine light on due to front oxygen sensor reading low voltage check engine light on due to front oxygen sensor reading low voltage. could caused by catalytic converter leak 
39680 mi Many ongoing problems when sold. Ignition control unit (ICU)... 
49000 mi Rear Main Engine Seal 
102500 mi

US $630
Replace Alternator 
119000 mi

US $700
radiator/hoses leak. 
108000 mi

US $900
Replaced coils. 
108000 mi

US $600
Vacuum intake, fuel pump, system flush 
109300 mi

US $250
Bad coil 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

92000 mi

US $1079
Oil Cooler had a leak and needed to be replaced. 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

60000 mi

US $1000
Replace secondary air injection pump, check valve, and associated hoses, as pump was ruined because of previously "stuck open" check valve, allowing exhaust gas condensate to enter the pump and freeze during winter months. 
81000 mi

US $566
Replacement O2 sensor and ECU reflash to latest version. 
94000 mi Anti-vibration shaft chain tensioner needs to be replaced. Auxiliary air pump needs to be replaced. 
78850 mi

US $144
Car did not start. Had it towed to a mechanic, the fuel pump went out. Last April(less than a year and 12000 miles ago) the Saab dealer replaced it but it went out again. I am trying to get my money back from the dealer but they don't want refund. Faulty O-ring between the radiator and transmission. It was leaking coolant so I got it fixed, fortunately did not need to replace the radiator. 
82000 mi

US $600
The vehicle was leaking coolant. Waterpump had to be replaced. 
151800 mi

US $235
Tensioner broke, snapping the belt rendering the car inoperable. 
6200 mi Gearbox malfunction. Reprogrammed SPS. Covered by warranty. 
12600 mi Water pump bolts leaking, reseal bolts. Covered by warranty. Onstar unit replaced. 
24700 mi Low coolant. Radiator leak on driver side seam. Replaced under warranty. 
31000 mi Performed oil cooler quick coupling reprogramming under warranty 
74000 mi

US $60
Gearbox malfunction on display. Repair shop said they could not duplicate, probably intermittent problem. 
73000 mi

US $168
Rear Main Seal continued a slow oil leak, as Dealership foretold. Returned to Dealer, where problem was successfully repaired. 
73000 mi

US $400
Neutral Safety Switch, leaving the car thinking it was in 2nd gear (incapable of being in Park, so I left in a level parking lot with the e-brake on). Could not be restarted, as it was in gear. Towed to shop. Repaired. 
84000 mi

US $550
oil leak in gasket behind timing belt. 
126300 mi

US $1200
Water pump replaced. 
86000 mi

US $118
Ignition switch went bad 
82000 mi Engine light came on. Dealer replaced some kind of vacuum part. 
84000 mi Engine light caused by faulty engine "back flow(?)" valve. Replaced under CPO warranty. 
86000 mi Immobilizer malfunction. Had to replace ignition key module. 
60000 mi

US $200
Coolant leak tube replaced. 
62000 mi Coolant leak fixed again. 
78000 mi

US $500
Replaced oil gasket. Car had a major oil leak underneath, and was drenched in oil that was smoking from under the car. 
240000 mi Car sold - Still ran great engine and transmission-wise! Has oil leak (moderate),  
90000 mi O2 sensor. O2 sensor wiring harness compromised, allowing moisture in. Took three repair trips to resolve. 
141000 mi

US $1100
Replaced entire exhaust system 
2000 mi Car failed to start. Towed and repaired under warranty. 
64500 mi

US $1008
Rear crank seal leaking, replaced 
47500 mi Updated transmission software to combat rough shifts/surges (partially failed) Replaced aerial which wasn't flush with roof Repaired lumbar support in driver's seat Fixed rattle from passenger seat (loose screw) 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

104000 mi

US $750
Fuel pump needed replacement. 
89000 mi

US $581
Engine and transmission mounts replaced to solve buzzing/rattling and rough engine. Problem not solved. 
89000 mi

US $961
The problem ended up being a balance shaft tensioner. 
126000 mi

US $450
Engine stall and missfire. Fix was replacement of ignition. Liquid was spilled into it. It would turn off the engine while running or missfire. 
105000 mi

US $340
replaced SAI pump/or smog pump, and the SAI check valve. Bought both from eEuroparts.com 
128000 mi

US $80
Replaced rusted out flex pipe 
123160 mi

C $240
Replaced leaking oil pressure switch. Also had the serpentine drive belt replaced. Car had 199954km at the time. 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD

37000 mi fuel pump 
37000 mi charcoal canister for fuel system 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder automatic 2WD

62000 mi

US $1200
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. 
43000 mi Oil pump leaking fluid. 

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2003 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

76500 mi

£155
ignition system failed 
63240 mi

C $1500
Engine sludge & PCV fix from latest TSB. The engine thus needed to drop sump,remove valve cover,secondary oil lines and clean. Replace timing chain and serpentine belt. Email: ultimately replaced engine. 
63240 mi

C $360
This was a TSB for PCV valve retrofit to avoid possible sludge build up. 
65100 mi

C $560
Water pump replaced. 

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2003 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

118300 mi

US $1140
temp sensor for coolant 
110000 mi intermittent engine temp sensor failure grinding noise from passenger side mid-engine (around drive belts) 
132000 mi

US $3500
Valve seals blew - installed new old stock crate engine 

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2003 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

114500 mi

US $200
Replaced DIC with proper unit. Red (Trionic 5) on a car that needed a black (Trionic 7). Car ran fine with the red - but the knock sensor on a T5 DIC is far more sensitive subsequently pulling the timing back a bit too much. 
55000 mi repair/replacement of ignition sensor and replace serpentine belt. 
156000 mi

US $300
Exhaust system...muffler 
106300 mi

US $100
Replaced oil drain box and hose according to technical service bulletin. Parts purchased online and installed myself. Engine had sludge problem and this fixed it over next two oil changes. 
127000 mi

US $185
Flex pipe rusted out (second time in two years) and needed to be replaced. Muffler has small holes, but still consider it serviceable. 
111800 mi

US $500
transmission supports giving out 
142000 mi

US $200
02 sensor, about a week after the alternator 
153000 mi

US $950
I had a transmission mount and one motor mount replaced for about $800. Also had an oil leak and had a gasket replaced for approximately $150. I will need the other motor mount replaced for about 300 $ and also brakes for about 500 $ when I return to the States in June. 
219000 mi

US $425
I needed the ignition module replaced;  
219000 mi Bringing it back next week for left transmission mount repair and tire rotation - to the new shop in NH, not the shop in Maine 
63000 mi

US $800
Hole in stainless exhaust flex tube caused by corrosion. 
94000 mi Stretched timing chain. 

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2002 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

167000 mi

US $1800
Replaced leaking valve cover gasket, distributor O ring and retorqued head bolts. 
193600 mi

US $130
Oil leak, diagnosed to be a timing chain cover seal leak. 
184000 mi

US $300
Crankshaft oil seal leak. 
189000 mi

US $470
Replaced/updated failed PCV system, which had begun to create oil leaks and smoke/fume issues. 
191000 mi

US $490
Small coolant leak, mostly observed if car sat for more than 1 day. Found to be leaking seals at the junction of heater core and hoses from engine. 
211000 mi

US $400
Coolant temp gauge reading erratically, sometimes setting of CEL. Coolant temp sensor found to be failing and was replaced. 
44640 mi

C $100
Coolant temp sensor. 
47120 mi

C $300
Crank position sensor. 
52080 mi

C $550
New water pump. 
88840 mi

C $500
Idler pulley, oil pressure switch 
91140 mi

C $1200
Need new clutch. Simply wore out. 
77000 mi

US $150
Burst coolant hose on the hiway. Towed home. Replaced all major coolant hoses with new OEM units. Found Vacuum lines controlling the turbo system hardened and brittle with age/heat. Replace vacuum lines. 
97000 mi

US $140
Vehicles towed home, replaced crankshaft position sensor, charged battery, erased codes using OBD tool. 
109700 mi

US $30
Replaced coolant temperature sensor after CEL, no reading from temperature gauge. 
120000 mi

US $160
Replaced DIC with a used unit, due to fault codes. 
100000 mi

US $450
Replaced failing crank position sensor 
87000 mi

US $1100
Fuel pump failed. New fuel pump was defective, failed aftr a couple of days, and replaced at no further cost. 
88000 mi With new fuel pump retaining ring didn't fit properly, which made the gas guage not work correctly. Had to use old retaining ring. Five trips in all to get repair done satisfactorily. 

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2002 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

121000 mi

US $50
Leaking oil pressure sensor 
110000 mi

US $500
Sludge build up in engine was cleaned out 
110000 mi Leaking head gasket turned out to be source of sludge. It wasn't worth it to invest the money in the car so we sold it to a Saab mechanic who is going to fix it himself. 
78000 mi

US $800
Replaced water pump  Broken motor mount 
83000 mi

US $200
Another burst hose 
84000 mi

US $15
top radiator hose exploded 
108000 mi

US $13
Engine oil pressure switch replacement 
110000 mi

US $20
The valve cover was leaking causing oil to leak. 
118000 mi

US $90
Replaced the Direct Ignition Cassette 
85000 mi

US $200
Crankcase position sensor replaced. 
120700 mi

US $700
Fuel pump. Pounded on gas tank to get car to start. 
104000 mi

US $1000
Oil leaks were repaired. The water pump was replaced. 
184640 mi

C $600
radiator plastic side crack rust muffler 
76300 mi

US $841
I brought it to the dealer again, they diagnosed it as a faulty transmission range sensor. 
85000 mi

US $165
Car was shaking slightly in drive/reverse, found that transmission mount was worn 

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2002 Saab 9-3 2dr Hatch

turbocharged 230hp 2.3L I4 5-speed manual FWD

160900 mi

US $800
Direct Injection Cassette needed to be replaced 

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2002 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 230hp 2.3L I4 5-speed manual FWD

78120 mi

C $500
replaced water pump and all cooling system hoses 

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2002 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

43400 mi

C $300
Replaced transmission mount. 

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2002 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

109000 mi

US $900
Fuel pump failed 
118000 mi Got the car running with a new ignition cassette, a common failure point. 
119000 mi

US $20
Turbo charge pipe blew off on going from WOT to nothing. Replaced throttle body o-ring which was flattened/hardened and a few crumbly vacuum lines for good measure. 
121000 mi

US $50
OIl pressure sensor was leaking, making a terrible mess. Cheap part, troublesome access. 
124000 mi

US $50
Heater hose 
97000 mi

US $150
Car would not start after engine temp reached normal, once engine cool down a bit, you can restart with no issues. Changed out Purge Valve Evap Charcoal Evaporator part #4670477. But did not solve the problem. At normal temp, the car continue to not start, one time it even stalled and would not restart. Changed out Crankshaft Position Sensor, seems to have solved the problem. Will continue to monitor. 
97200 mi

US $45
Changed out Purge Valve Evap Charcoal Evaporator part #4670477 due to noisy solenoid. In January, changed our original Purge Valve with used unit that didn't solve my starting issue. Changed back to original unit after starting problem. 
98000 mi

US $150
The starting problem continued until changing out the crankcase positioning sensor. The part was like $30, labor cost was just over $100 
58000 mi

US $300
Ignition cassette 

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2001 Saab 9-3

Engine not specified

109000 mi Major: engine would not start. Sometimes letting it cool down would make a difference. Spent $1,500 in January in failed repair attempt. 

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2001 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 230hp 2.3L I4 5-speed manual FWD

118000 mi slight oil leak, replaced valve cover gasket to fix the problem 
122100 mi

US $1300
radiator, water pump, heater core 

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2001 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

160500 mi

US $740
Massive oil leak and disintegration of crank pulley 

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2001 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

161000 mi

US $700
Throttle body replaced 
162000 mi Water pump broke. 
158000 mi

US $500
Heater core replaced. 
93000 mi

US $2885
Oil leak from timing cover onto alternator, alternator had to be replaced. 

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2001 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 185hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

166000 mi Excessive metal shavings found in oil, billowing smoke, rattling during operation = engine failure. 
105400 mi

US $400
DIC failed 
147000 mi

US $350
Replaced fuel pump 
122000 mi

C $175
Exhaust muffler changed 

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2001 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 185hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

88000 mi

US $250
Serpentine belt and tensioner pulley replaced 
133000 mi

US $2560
Auto needed a valve job 
138000 mi Vacuum hose developed crack which generated the "check engine" light. 
150800 mi

US $957
Check engine light cam one about 75% of the time. Slight leak of coolant/anti freeze Radiator leak 
161000 mi Check engine light was on. Mechanic could not verify the problem with the diagnostic tools. 
146700 mi

US $200
coolant leak 
174000 mi

US $750
Failed emission test. "Check engine" light was on. 

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2001 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

110000 mi

US $300
Replaced upper radiator hose; replaced thermostat. 

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2001 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

202000 mi

US $90
Output shaft sensor wiring harness failed. tensioner pulley tightened causing belt to be thrown off and shredded Direct Ignition Cassette failed 
149000 mi

US $50
Heater hose from the block to the core burst then replaced. Was able to drive it three miles without overheating. 
158000 mi

US $974
idler arm pulley mount broke which ruined several pulleys and the belt. several hoses and connectors needed replacing 
166000 mi

US $886
replace fuel pump 

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2001 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 185hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

142600 mi Blowing white smoke out of exhaust, could be blown motor or turbo? Car sitting in garage 

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2001 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 185hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

100500 mi

US $900
Coil pack replaced, neutral safety switch replaced 
121000 mi leaking water pump when sold (already replaced twice!) 
61000 mi

US $175
crankshaft position sensor 
73000 mi

US $300
Oil pressure sender, and it leaked PC Valve failure 
75000 mi

US $900
New radiator. R&R access is tough, so labor exceeded parts bill 
85000 mi

US $30
vacuum hoses lost their elasticity and no longer "grabbed" t-connectors, resulting in rough engine performance. Replaced 3 lines & 3 plastic joints. 
85000 mi

US $2500
Failed firewall heater hose led to head gasket failure. Had to swap for another engine. 
93000 mi

US $650
Water pump leaked 
170000 mi

US $500
head gasket, oil pan gasket 

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2000 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 230hp 2.3L I4 5-speed manual FWD

128000 mi

US $400
Direct ignition cassette replaced after repeated engine misfire. 
145000 mi

US $400
Clutch replacement Serpentine belt came off. Found the problem to be a wobbly water pump pulley. The power steering pump hose needed attention and was conveniently accessible at time of water pump repair. 
145000 mi

US $300
Radiator cracked on drivers side. Car overheated because wife continued to drive it while watching the coolant temp gauge rise. Marriage counseling and radiator replacement needed. Car shut off from overheating. 

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2000 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 185hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

77683 mi

US $750
Water pump failure. Fan belts replacements 
82576 mi

US $160
oil leaks in engine. Replace oil pressure sender 
495 mi

US $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. 

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1999 Saab 9-3

Engine not specified

158300 mi

US $300
Valve cover gasket leak causing oil leak 
158900 mi

US $150
check engine light, replace direct ignition cassette (ignition coils) and spark plugs 
131000 mi Replaced midpipe because it had rusted through and was leaking. 
114000 mi

US $380
Fuel pump and Crank Position Sensor 
128960 mi

C $400
The muffler rusted out and had to be replaced. 
128960 mi The exhaust system developed several leaks. The replacement costs were more than the car was worth. 

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1999 Saab 9-3 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD

275800 mi

US $150
Replaced rusted intermediate exhaust pipe 

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1999 Saab 9-3 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder automatic 2WD

76000 mi

US $200
transmission bracket needed to be replaced 
79000 mi

US $1200
Exhaust and muffler replaced. Major tune-up performed.  
117000 mi

US $735
Turbo had to be replaced 
148100 mi

US $150
Radiator 
143000 mi

US $900
Transmission mount replaced 

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1999 Saab 9-3 4-door

4-cylinder manual 2WD

119000 mi

US $130
dead fuel pump 
94000 mi 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 

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1999 Saab 9-3 2-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD

80000 mi

US $900
Car was not turning over and making awful screeching noise. Ignition/Starter had to be replaced. 
120900 mi

C $600
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 
100000 mi Direct Ignition Cassette failed - easily replaced, no further problems 
120500 mi

US $52
Erratic idle and intermittent stall at stop. Replaced EVAP purge valve. 
128000 mi Stumble upon acceleration. DIC was replaced and symptoms have been erradicated. 
80200 mi

US $12
Turbo not engaging -tech discovered air pipe not connected, reconnected - $12; also had oil changed, new brake pads and rotors 
84000 mi

US $1446
"KEY NOT ACCEPTED" - replaced key antennae, resulted in the alarm not working properly, computer diagnosed it to be a "TWICE" malfunction, needed to be replaced before further driving, part had to be ordered 

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See TrueDelta's information for all Saab models.

Saab 9-3 Engine Problems

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently Saab 9-3 problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.