Saab 9-3 Saab 9-3

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Expensive Saab 9-3 repairs by problem area

Engine (34%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (10%)

Brakes and Traction Control (5%)

Suspension and Steering (24%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (22%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (4%)

Other (0%)

Chart based on 214 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the Saab 9-3.

Saab 9-3 repair cost distribution

$2500+ (17%)

$1000 - $2499 (83%)

$500 - $999 (0%)

$100 - $499 (0%)

< $100 (0%)

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

Chart based on 143 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2011 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

47000 mi

US $1500
Replaced rear drive shaft, bearing was loud 

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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. 
82000 mi

US $100
right front xenon bulb assembly, only high beam was working. Purchased two bulbs only (no ballast) and found video on youtube for removing bulbs from both headlights, put in new bulbs, worked beautifully. 

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2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

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

13640 mi

$152
High mounted rear brake light, crack centered at the washer fluid nozzle. P/N 12825344. 
14260 mi

$459
"Bonk" noise, front, right, when turning the steering wheel at standstill, or low speed. Ball bearing P/N 13 270 705 replaced, both sides. 
15180 mi

$1700
A/C compressor did not start. Low on coolant medium, refilled 365 g. 
17980 mi

$4232
AC compressor disd not start due to low coolant medium/leak. Replaced 3 gaskets/o-rings and refilled medium and oil. 
19430 mi

$18000
Both rear shock absobers leaking, replaced. OEM P/N 12848627. A/C system still leaking, replaced two valves and recharged. OEM P/N 3041827 and 13122149 

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2009 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual AWD

66600 mi

US $1000
Rear Differential displayed a service light. Diff was taken apart and reassembled with new seals and gaskets and all fluids and filters replaced. Any disconnection in power to instrument cluster caused tachometer needle to reset to readings other than zero. Was finally reading 3500 rpm with the engine stopped. Speedometer was also inaccurate, reading ~10mph too low. 
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

67000 mi

US $1000
Rear shock leak and failure 
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 
58000 mi

US $1426
Needed new front springs, were broken so replaced struts at the same time to avoid duplication of future labor. 

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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 
57840 mi

C $1400
Rear shocks were leaking - self leveling units had to order parts from Sweden due to back order in North America 
41540 mi

C $2000
Fuel pump failure 

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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

37000 mi

US $100
Error message regarding ignition on information center. Diagnosed as faulty body module which was reset. Worked for a while but messages returned since. 
42000 mi

US $600
ignition switch replacement 
55000 mi

US $2000
Drivers side window motor replaced. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

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

157000 mi

US $1200
replace drive shaft 
165000 mi

US $200
replace coolant hoses 
32900 mi

US $125
Right front tire pressure slowly decreasing. Problem found to be a corroded TPMS sensor. Purchased sensor from former SAAB dealer and NTB installed. 
49000 mi

US $670
Four wheel brake job including rotors and pads. 
75000 mi

US $1500
The driver's door and passenger side rear door solenoid locking modules required replacement (would not lock and unlock with the keyfob) Routine maintenance was due on the AWD rear differential. Differential removed from vehicle and fluids and filters replaced. During this maintenance both rear CV joint boots were discovered to be ripped requiring replacement. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 280hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual AWD

50300 mi

US $250
Windshield washer nozzle and headlight washer nozzle needed replacement. 
49300 mi

US $530
Misfires. Replaced 3 coil packs & all 6 plugs. 
75000 mi

US $182
Replaced Xenon (HID) headlight Three of four windshield washer nozzles broken. Replaced 2nd time for this car. Too hot under hood. 
78000 mi

US $480
New rear brake rotors and pads. 
84000 mi

US $800
Replaced fuel pump after eliminating fuel pressure sensor and computer. (Three trips.) Replaced self-leveling shock absorber 

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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
Sway bar links and strut mounts and bearings replaced due to wear. Upper heater hose warn and leaking coolant. Part replaced. 
15810 mi

C $300
Found the sunroof not working when test drove it in a used car dealer. They thought it was the motor, but after replacing the motor the problem remained. They finally replaced the module, problem solved. Probably added $300 to the sales price. Found the sunroof not working when test drove it in a used car dealer. They thought it was the motor, but after replacing the motor the problem remained. They finally replaced the module, problem solved. 
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. 
32980 mi

C $110
Driver side door handle bracket broke. Could not open door. Ordered part and replaced. 
45260 mi

C $156
Front sway bar links were making noise. Parts replaced and fixed. 

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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 
124620 mi

C $1200
Front suspension: Broken front springs-replaced, top plates jammed-replaced, lower suspension arm, bad joints-replaced. tie-rod end worn-replaced. 
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 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

25200 mi

C $780
Power steering pump shot; XWD-specific parts needed to be ordered in from Sweden and installed. 
26660 mi

C $710
Replaced one coil. 
35960 mi

C $6000
Replaced XWD rear differential due to shavings. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 255hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

34300 mi

US $1200
Replaced dead battery 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

63000 mi

US $730
Drivers side power lock module failed 
101000 mi

US $1400
Struts, springs and tie rod ends 
106000 mi

US $250
AC warm 
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. 
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. 
78820 mi

C $700
Rebuilt AC compressor installed 
89900 mi

C $250
Seals between the head and the power steering pump and the vaccuum pump were changed, due to them leaking oil. 
89900 mi

C $230
The fuel gauge sender failed, indicating an empty tank when over half full. This is a known common failure in this model. 
93000 mi

C $160
No crank. Inspected the battery, which turned out to be the factory original. I purchased and installed a new 5 Year Warranty battery. 
108500 mi

C $100
Oil Pressure Switch was leaking. Part was replaced. 
107260 mi

C $130
Replace both front springs. They had broken about 4" along from the bottom end. 
114642 mi

C $220
Replace flex coupling in exhaust pipe. 
124514 mi

C $1345
Change AC evaporator and expansion valve, leak test and recharge. 
134540 mi

C $200
Replace Oil Feed Pipe to Turbocharger (leaking due to corrosion) 
140120 mi

C $200
I replaced the clutch. With transmission out, replaced engine rear main seal. Repaired holes created by rust in subframe. One week after finishing the clutch replacement the right front wheel bearing became noisy. I replaced it myself. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

60000 mi

US $195
Power steering pump is driven directly off of the camshaft. The seal in the pump failed allowing engine oil to pump into the rower steering pump reservoir and overflow. The pump was replaced with a remaufactured unit. 
75500 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. 
83000 mi

US $435
Fuel tank sending unit was failing intermittently. Sending unit was replaced. 
167000 mi

US $160
Replaced rear muffler. 
117000 mi

US $1300
Front struts & springs replaced along with rear shocks & springs. One original front spring was found to be broken during strut replacement. 
134000 mi

US $400
Front wheel was missing a lug. Shop determined threads inside bearing had rusted away. Bearing replaced to resolve problem. Repair was successful. 
124000 mi

US $1000
Replace rear left caliper - parking brake was sticking. Do full brake job - rotors, pads, and fluid flush. Max Brakes (maxbrakes.com) has excellent brakes for this car and you can special order their Elite performance rotors and Carbon Metallic pads for amazing stopping power.  Replaced both stabilizer bar links (were making squeeks/groans during turning) - recommend getting the greasable ones from Moog so you can add grease periodically and never have to replace again. Replaced struts - Recommend Bilstein HD, Koni, KYB, maybe Monroe, but not probably not Sachs OEM.  

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2008 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

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

47500 mi

US $2600
Threw a diagnostic code for intermittent low fuel pressure. Replaced the fuel pump. 
55300 mi

US $400
Tire pressure sensor was failing intermittently. Replaced one sensor. 
53500 mi

US $385
One windshield and one headlight washer failed after recent freezing weather. I think there was something wrong with the windshield, it just started cracking. Running the defroster a lot didn’t help. 
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. 
72700 mi

US $100
Trunk light was inoperative. Bulb was good. Wiring to the bulb had cracked. 
106000 mi

US $700
Worn sparkplugs. Engine stuttered on acceleration. Driver side window rolled up then rolled down halfway. Control module was re-flashed and fixed the problem. Replaced cracked coolant expansion tank. 

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2008 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

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

102225 mi

US $1300
Vacuum pump was leaking oil; it was replaced with a new vacuum pump and seal. A/C was working less efficiently, that is, had to set thermostat to 64 F instead of 70 F to get cool air to blow through vents. 
104000 mi

US $700
Replaced original ECM with remanufactured ECM 
58000 mi

US $1400
Replaced steering position sensor replaced noisy pulley tensioner 

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2007 Saab 9-3

Engine not specified

49000 mi

US $1480
Clutch and slave cyclinder 
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. 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

53000 mi

US $440
Brake vacuum pump leaking, seals integrated, so pump was replaced 
54000 mi

US $250
Driver door locking mechanism replaced 
55000 mi

US $120
Replaced ignitions switch - steering lock warning +12x 
64000 mi

US $600
Fault in Wiper controls required replacement of CIM which also control alarm 
72000 mi

US $620
Replaced strut end bearings (making noise as spring wound-up & unwound). Also replaced front brake pads (wear item) 
75000 mi

US $350
Left rear door lock mechanism intermittent failure - replaced unit. 
97000 mi

US $2400
Valve replacement, New rebuilt head, etc. due to worn valves, hard cold starting RR window regulator replaced 
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. 
163000 mi

US $900
replaced steering pump due to leak. also had cracked coolant tank 
179000 mi

US $125
failed window regulator - left rear 
184000 mi

US $500
left rear window regulator failed. 
185000 mi

US $300
failed ignition coil 
180000 mi

US $140
recharged AC 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

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

127000 mi

US $2700
Transmission needed to be replaced. Found a junkyard used replacement to swap in. 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

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. 
90800 mi

US $600
Brake pedal had excessive travel and felt soft. Mechanic replaced front pads and rotors and greased all pistons in calipers to remedy a sticking rear caliper. 
109000 mi

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

US $380
Two ignition coil packs were misfiring and required replacement. Replaced all spark plugs at same time. Left Xenon bulb working intermittently. Replaced bulb and igniter. 
139100 mi

US $1500
Replaced leaking / worn out (aftermarket) Koni Sport Shocks 
71000 mi

US $160
AC O-Ring deteriorated, was replaced and R134a was recharged. 
96000 mi

US $2000
Work was NOT performed as the ECM, which went out while I was driving 70mph on the HWY with family,was on BO for ???. Dealer ended up taking it as a trade in. 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

114420 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 Sway bar links loose, replaced with oem 
125640 mi

C $500
Coil packs and plugs. 
132680 mi

C $1500
Camber bolts had rusted and rotted. New bolts were ordered and installed before alignment Spark plugs, coilpacks replaced Coolant hoses rotted 
68200 mi

US $340
One failed coil made the engine run rough. 
121000 mi

US $1250
new clutch 
32000 mi

US $290
Ignition switch module failed, was replaced. 
48000 mi

US $1000
Replaced front coil springs, one was broken, one failing 
62000 mi

US $800
coils failed 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

52060 mi

C $600
Fuel sender needed to be replaced (fuel gauge wasn't working) 
70660 mi

C $300
Thermostat was malfunctioning 
105380 mi

C $1200
Cracked strut mount. 
108500 mi

C $1700
The check engine light flashing. Car did not have any power. 3 of the coils had to be replaced. 
76300 mi

US $1000
ac compressor replacement` 
73800 mi

US $260
replaced rear shocks 
99700 mi

US $1100
Replace front links, struts, springs (1 spring broken). 
130000 mi

US $1400
2 front sway bar links recharge AC 
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. 
96000 mi

US $150
Rear passenger window regulator broke during normal operation of the window. A new regulator was needed to fix the problem. 

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2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

67200 mi

US $1005
A/C compressor clutch solenoid failed. The solenoid is not a replaceable part, so the entire compressor+clutch assembly had to be replaced. 
77000 mi

US $199
Lower Schrader valve found to be leaking 
86200 mi

US $161
Dye test indicated Evaporator has a slow leak 
87600 mi

US $800
A/C leak. Evaporator replaced. 
65100 mi

$2000
gear box failure 
26000 mi

US $500
Pinch sensor on the drivers side of the car fails. Only fix is to re-flash the computer. The repair works for a couple of weeks then fails again. 
26000 mi

US $1100
Right front spring assempbly broke, causing the spring to run the inside of the right front tire. Car was not operable. Had to be towed to dealer. Per dealer this is a known problem. 
50000 mi

C $2000
Aside from brakes and drums the front Coil springs where replace because of corrosion, all original SAAB parts 
73780 mi

C $100
Back left brake light wires was causing an electronical short and had to be fixed. 
78120 mi

C $350
Heat Sensor module defect. 
59000 mi

US $1800
Error in traction control computer, need to replace cim module, the main module of the car. 
101000 mi

US $300
Windshield washer arm would not move. 
112000 mi

US $125
No Airconditioning 
122000 mi

US $449
Needed oil change, tire rotation and a/c system has small leak. Needed recharge 
93000 mi

US $1600
Car would not start due to CIM failure. Locks and alarm were also affected. Replaced the CIM and keys. Dealer programming was required. 
98000 mi

US $140
Loose sway bar link. One ball joint was loose and making noise. Sway bar link was replaced as it is not servicible AC was low on refrigerant following recharge 6 months prior. No leaks found under the hood. Detected refrigerant in the area of the evaporator. Recharged the AC again and system is working again. 

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2007 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

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

110200 mi

US $650
Convertible top hydraulic hoses cracked, spraying hydraulic oil on the passenger seat and preventing the top from moving. Required replacement of both full lines. About 6 hours of work + 2 used lines. 
118000 mi

US $600
Fuel sender stopped working, resulting in unreliable gas gauge. Needed new fuel sender. 
120000 mi

US $3000
Transmission damaged beyond repair--issues with valve body, torque converter, 2nd and 3rd gears. Leaking fluid everywhere. However, transmission was not replaced at shop, because this model of transmission apparently wasn't available used in mechanic's parts network. Fix estimated to cost $3000 or more once transmission becomes available. 

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2007 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

124000 mi

US $1200
ignition coils replaced 

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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 noisy drivers side front wheel bearing Replaced leaky brake vacuum pump Replaced leaky power steering pump Replaced failed PCV valve 
116395 mi

US $1547
Replaced front sway bar links Replace front struts and springs. One spring broken. 
124694 mi

US $800
Replace rear brake rotors and pads Replace spark plugs 
42000 mi

US $1900
replaced leaking power steering pump. 
44700 mi

US $1300
Replace two hydraulic cylinders and sensor in convertible top mechanism. 
74400 mi

US $350
Fuel pump failed. 
75000 mi

US $100
Serpentine belt failed. 
96000 mi

US $1200
Replaced A/C evaporator. 
98000 mi

US $350
Faulty door lock was causing security system to fail. Door lock was replaced. 
104000 mi

US $200
Crankshaft position sensor replaced. 
108300 mi

US $350
Replace cooling fans and controller. 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

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

72000 mi

US $640
Fuel gauge would go to zero when tank filled. After 100 miles of driving, gauge would come on scale and work normally until next fillup. Happened consistently. Mechanic replaced fuel pump assembly which resolved problem. 
93800 mi

US $504
Blower motor for circulating air inside the vehicle developed chirping noise, needed to be replaced due to incipient failure. 
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

152900 mi

US $1100
Rear brake job. Right rear brake caliper found to be defective, causing excessive and uneven wear and was replaced. 
165000 mi

US $200
Front passenger side wheel well liner was loose and rubbing tire when turning. 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 150hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

75020 mi

C $500
Replaced one front and one rear coil spring that had broken 
75640 mi

C $600
Replaced both front door electric locks 
82800 mi

C $1200
Replaced passenger front electric window actuator Replaced front brake caliper, passenger side 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

120000 mi

US $1000
Broken front springs required replacement 
140000 mi

US $850
Replaced inner and outer tie-rod ends,front sway bar links and rear upper control arm due to expected wear. 
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.  Installed new cabin fan motor, cabin filter seal and cabin filter.  Replaced melted passenger side tail/brake circuit board and 4 pin terminal connector with good used unit. Replaced corroded right front marker socket and bulb. 
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. 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

47000 mi

US $14000
compressor for AC unit failed and needed to be replaced 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

122222 mi

US $1700
ECU wiring bad Headlight reflector delaminated - had to replace both front headlight assembly. Had to replace defective seat position sensor 
90200 mi

US $212
One of the two horns failed in the car, so when hitting the car horn sounded like a clown car. Fixed in 1.25 hours. 
111000 mi

US $200
Driver's left bolster ripped. Needed to be replaced. Was replaced and looks like new. 
117500 mi

US $1500
Struts in front replaced. One spring in the front broken and replaced. Upper control arms in back replaced. All of my cars need this repair around 120,000 miles as the road in CT beat up suspensions on all brands. 
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. 
130000 mi

US $300
Blower motor needed replacement. Just age of car and use. Greased it to put off replacement for a few months. 
135000 mi

US $396
The blower motor for the heat/ac I had applied grease to stop squealing two months ago. It returned in October, so had the motor replaced before it failed and left me without heat or ac. The blower motor for the heat/ac I had applied grease to stop squealing two months ago. It returned in October, so had the motor replaced before it failed and left me without heat or ac. 
141000 mi

US $200
Power steering was seeping oil. Time to replace at 140,000. 
120500 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. 
168000 mi

US $166
Battery was failing and needed replacement 
107800 mi

US $160
Xenon headlights replaced Windshield wiper transmission. Replaced Front spring broke both replaced with aftermarket parts 
125000 mi

US $125
I had to replace the passenger door lock. The actuator had failed. It was an easy job. 
130000 mi

US $300
Replace two more failing door lock mechanisms. Parts getting hard to find new. 
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 
58000 mi

US $1110
Replaced failed A/C compressor. 

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2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

159600 mi

US $1100
Replaced struts, strut mounts, front LCAs (bushings & ball joints included), and rear suspension bushings. Struts had become very loose when rallycrossing, which probably affected other bushings & ball joints. Repair was done before an HPDE. 
187000 mi

US $180
Radiator developed a leak, needed to be replaced 
196000 mi

US $200
One of the soft hydraulic lines began to bubble, necessitating replacement. I opted to replace all four soft brake lines as a precaution. 
217000 mi

US $110
Driver's side lower control arm containing the lower ball joint was loose and had play. This was replaced 
19840 mi

C $2500
Door rattles, blown speaker 

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2006 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

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

61500 mi

US $2600
Check engine light code indicated fuel pressure out of spec. Replace sensor and pump. $1600 for both Rough shift third to fourth. Replace trans fluid twice 
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 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

59000 mi

US $150
Electric mirror switch was found faulty and replaced 
80000 mi

US $600
Uneven wear pattern on right rear tire indicated worn shock absorber. Decided to replace all 4 shocks and struts. Also replaced front brake pads and rotors while front end was apart. New tires and alignment the following week. 
111200 mi

US $1750
Traction control warning displayed on dash. Dealer diagnosed as faulty ABS module. Replaced module with new. 
134000 mi

US $270
Knocking in front suspension when going over bumps. Problem diagnosed as worn ball joints in front lower control arms. Removed and replaced both front lower control arms. Problem persists. 
146000 mi

US $150
Driver seat upholstery was worn and tearing at the seams. Replaced upholstery with OEM. 
180000 mi

US $600
Audio would randomly cutout while driving. Suspected fault in optical bus. Replaced Amp1, problem persists. Replaced Amp2, problem persists. Replaced Infotainment Control Module, problem persists. Replaced radio unit, problem resolved. 
180000 mi

US $300
Convertible top hydraulic cylinder was leaking at seal. Replaced with rebuilt unit. 

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2005 Saab 9-3

Engine not specified

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. 

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2005 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

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. 
US $200 The REC fuse block in the trunk #17 block for the auto dim mirror/compass and Intermittent wiper control failed. I had to replace the entire Rear electrical center and have it reprogrammed to match the car's options. 
74100 mi

US $300
The A/C blower motor failed. 

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2005 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

72000 mi

US $1110
hub bearing passenger front headlight bulb burned out and the wire harness also bad stabilizer bar bushing replaced 
81000 mi

US $380
Broken spring covered under warranty.  strut bushings replaced that I paid for. 
90000 mi

US $600
left front wheel speed sensor failed triggering abs, stability and traction control failure. Hit a minor bump in road 
67000 mi

US $1225
Replaced water pump and thermostat 
99000 mi

US $2400
ac only blowing hot air. Replacement of cooling fan module, compressor, drier, orings, orifice tube, lines, condensor flush with freon refill. still not working correctly. 

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2005 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

94000 mi

US $242
Left rear upper control arm worn out causing poor rear-end control 
98700 mi

US $464
Cracked left rear shock absorber mount. Replaced mount, both rear shocks. 
108400 mi

US $1100
Radiator slow leak, due to rust on lower radiator body where side frame joins aluminum fins. 
129000 mi

US $120
Left front stabilizer bar worn, making "clunking" sound, replaced 
134000 mi

US $1500
Steering became extremely heavy. Replaced power steering pump, which did not correct the problem. Then replaced rack and pinion. Steering now normal. 
67580 mi

C $1900
hvac recirc motor & blower 
71300 mi

C $1500
Broken springs, sway bars, replaced struts 

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2005 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

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

108900 mi

US $100
replace worn link rod 
161000 mi

US $350
replaced leaking intermediate pipe along with gasket and clamp 
121000 mi

US $149
Brake booster oil seal was leaking. I had the area cleaned and a new seal installed. 
188000 mi

US $1500
stuck caliper-left rear, replaced caliper, new rear pads and rotors-left and right broken front spring, leaking front strut replaced front springs and struts 
146000 mi

US $1300
No start when cold. ECU replaced 
163000 mi

US $250
Replaced front struts 
29000 mi

US $1000
draining battery, source could not be found. tried replacing acc resistor and checked all fuses and starter system 
56000 mi

US $238
Anti-pinch window feature kept driver-side window from rolling up completely without driver intervention. Window module was reprogrammed. 
71000 mi

US $1050
Small rust spot developed under the convertible hatch. No perforation occurred so manufacturer did not cover the repair. 
73000 mi

US $200
Sway bar linkage rubber bushings worn out. Replaced. 
87000 mi

US $100
Car was blowing its low-beam headlight at least once/every two months on the left-hand side and had started blowing the right-hand side low-beam about once every six months. Dealer replaced the bulb connectors on both sides. 

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2005 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

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

98000 mi

US $3000
Transmission failed during driving. Encountered a flat tire at that time. Car wouldn't start due to steering wheel malfunction had CNM reprogrammed During the replacement of the tranny the motor mount was done. During the replacement of the tranny we did a modification to the air cabin filter area that had a part missing and all other parts aren't correct. During the replacement of the tranny we did a modification to the air cabin filter area that had a part missing and the part number corresponding to that part isn't correct. 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

75000 mi

US $340
Ignition Control Module replaced 
85500 mi

US $1600
Turbo replaced. Clogged oil return line. Turbo replaced. Clogged oil return line. 
89000 mi

US $225
Air Recirculation motor needed replaced, $160. Driver side mirror glass fell out. Replaced just mirror glass, $65. 
124200 mi

US $350
The struts and shocks were the original on the car and were worn out. Expected at that mileage 

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2004 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

79000 mi

US $3000
Water pump failed, engine coolant leaked. Air conditioning failed. 
88000 mi

US $1100
System lock failure displayed. Right rear door lock sticking, part replaced. 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. Driver's side and passenger side windows would automatically roll down 2 inches after rolling up. Dealer made tension adjustment, reset anti-pinch feature. 
112500 mi

US $170
Saab issued a safety bulletin for broken front springs and I brought the car to the dealer to be inspected. No problems, right front spring broke 2 wks later. While apart they replaced rt front control arm and other misc wear items. 
119000 mi

US $1200
Driver's side window would not roll down. Motor replaced; however first window setting not operable, was told I would need another $400 part. The window intermmittently works while holding down the button to open window fully. Key fob would not lock or unlock car, had to manually use key which most of the time would then trigger the car alarm. 

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2004 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

89280 mi

C $2000
ABS lights, traction control lights came on. speed sensor. Water pump leaking - replaced it. Had to replace struts and springs. 
97960 mi

C $1500
wheel bearing had to be replaced 

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2004 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

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. 
108200 mi

US $190
Windshield wipers would not park properly, washers did not work properly. Replaced wiper motor and linkage 
109000 mi

US $1400
Replaced front struts, strut mounts and strut bearings. Replaced both rear upper control arms and 4 wheel alignment. 
130000 mi

US $120
Right rear electric lock replaced. 

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2004 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

51000 mi

US $1000
Broken spring, known issue under warranty. Column interface module faulty causing left signal to remain on. 
58000 mi

US $1200
Fuel pump failed, was replaced. 
68000 mi

US $1000
Broken spring 
35000 mi

US $1049
Right turn signal working intermittently. Dealer replaced column integration module. 
38200 mi

US $108
Replaced battery 

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2004 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

27000 mi

US $150
Windshield washer pump relay replaced. 
39000 mi

US $100
Both headliner hydralic valves for the convertible topped needed replacing (leaking). 
47200 mi

US $1400
Replaced convertible top hydraulic motors. Replaced rear brakes. 
49000 mi

US $300
Hear/ac blower motor and resistor replaced. 

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2004 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

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

57000 mi

US $1297
Couldn't start. Replaced Column Interation Module that controls alarm and steering.  Also Ignition Switch Module that controls remote activity and monitors ignition position, also 2 remote transmitters.  Also yaw rate sensor. What an ordeal. Fortunately Saab paid half of total cost. 
62800 mi

US $500
Replaced passenger door window motor.  

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2004 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

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

28520 mi

A $1600
1. Gearbox malfunction light came on. 2. Seats wouldn't slide horizontally when the handle to let the rear seat passanger in was used. 
34100 mi

A $120
Front passenger seat would no longer recline forward to allow passengers to enter to the back seats. 
63860 mi

A $270
problem 1: gearbox clunky. Could not replicate problem. No error codes found. Oil OK. 
62000 mi

A $4500
Gearbox overhaul 
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. 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

75000 mi

US $1100
emissions air pump 
68000 mi

US $968
Cabin fan did not work Control unit was also burnt out. Replaced cabin fan motor, control unit, and air filter. Check operation everything was ok when done 
71000 mi

US $247
Replaced LH front upper strut mount and bearing. Replaced LH front sway bar link. 
72000 mi

US $288
Fixed driver’s side window(recalibrated) Replaced both rear upper strut mounts. No A/C from center or right side. Turned out it needed a refrigerant dye and a recharge system. Right side front side marker out. Socket rotted. Replaced socket and bulb. Fixed passenger’s side window(recalibrated) 
80000 mi

US $175
One of the A/C fans was making a noise as if a bearing was going unit. Then the A/C stopped blowing cold. Took it in quick fix was a re-charge. May need the whole A/C system to be replaced down the road, but works for now. 
81000 mi

US $1426
Problem with A/C. Had Dye stick and Freon done to get a base line. New Expansion valve, AC evaporator, and seal ring. Also Dye Stick and Freon. Note there was a metal OEM piece part of the fire wall that rusted. Others will have the same issue. We still have water leaking in the car during a rain. 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

37200 mi

A $6300
Brand new automatic transmission!! Original price for transmission $14,000. Haggle haggle haggle and get the price down. Saab are trying to recover costs by charging customers on spare parts - not good Saab!! 
62125 mi

$1450
Steering and suspension, repair 
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 front oxygen sensor reading low voltage. could caused by catalytic converter leak 

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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

127000 mi

US $230
Replace alternator and serpentine belt 
141000 mi

US $1100
Replaced entire exhaust system 
US $2400 AC motor replaced, because it was locking up and the belt was slipping as it is connected to the AC motor. 
60000 mi

US $200
Coolant leak tube replaced. 
75000 mi

US $650
Interior A/C Vent Motor Failed 
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. 
64500 mi

US $1008
Rear crank seal leaking, replaced 
65000 mi

US $400
inoperative climate control system. Electronic fault. 
68000 mi

US $650
Drivers side front and rear window regulators malfunctioned same week. Motors ok, regulator lifts only replaced. 
156700 mi

US $1400
Soft steering --,dangerous, required major part and pulling motor. Side and brake light; now, two months later, same problem. Air bag warning lights come on, off . Hood and top of cab has paint peeling, fading badly. 
160500 mi

US $120
A new (one month old) tire blew out while I was Driving; had to be towed to have it replaced. It later turned out it was because a piece of the rear passenger side broken spring, not identified or repaired until March, pierced it. 
163000 mi

US $2500
Bar was replaced, along with three springs. front light again went out -- cost $200! 
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. 
71000 mi

US $950
Replace front and rear main seals to correct an engine oil leak. 
81000 mi

US $566
Replacement O2 sensor and ECU reflash to latest version. Replacement front coil suspension. I was made aware of this by a letter from Saab NA. I was told the warranty for this part had been extended to 10 years. Coils replaced free of charge as expected. 
64000 mi

US $550
ABS Bearing on PF wheel went bad. Covered by warranty.  Also, leak in A/C caused minor water damage in PF footwell. Covered by owner. 
71000 mi

US $100
A/C not working, so it was taken in. Vacuum Pump faulty, replaced. Rear Main Seal leaking. Warranty company would not validate RMS, so I drove the car for 2 weeks til RMS leaked more oil. 
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. 
78000 mi

US $150
Tranny. Had to be replaced. Fitted with factory-rebuilt. Also had a vacuum hose crack during service, which had to be replaced. 
83000 mi

US $100
Fuel Sensor and Fuel Sender replaced. 
84000 mi

US $550
oil leak in gasket behind timing belt. water leak in cowl drain. cowl and drainage system replaced. 
100000 mi

US $1000
Loose front right tie rod was discovered during an end of warranty inspection. Replaced under warranty. Leaky power steering pump round during end of warranty inspection. Replaced under warranty. 
126300 mi

US $1200
Water pump replaced. 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

69000 mi

US $250
FRONT WHEEL BEARING-UNDER WARRANTY OIL CHANGE, ROTATE TIRES, REPLACE SOME BULBS & AIR FILTERS, REAR BRAKES-GENERAL MAINTENANCE 
117800 mi

C $500
While getting winter tires mounted, mechanic noted right rear brake caliper was frozen and had caused excessive wear to rotor. Had to replace both. 
123160 mi

C $240
Replaced leaking oil pressure switch. Also had the serpentine drive belt replaced. Car had 199954km at the time. 
125240 mi

C $1300
cable for the power driver's side window kinked and the whole regulator had to be replaced. Car suddenly refused to start. Towed to mechanic who after MUCH frustration found numerous intermittent electrical connections under the fuse box. Also found loose starter motor and fixed but that was not the cause of the problem. 

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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. 

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2003 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

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

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

98000 mi

US $1000
Car brought in for 90k maintenance, returned twice in two weeks - 1st for pressure hoses for power steering system,  then again for failing AC compressor. 
100000 mi

US $110
convertible gasket seal is allowing water in via flange (capillary action drawing it inside the window) - water drips down the interior of the window/door when it rains heavily. 
105800 mi

US $1140
temp sensor for coolant 
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

98000 mi

US $1500
replace ac compressor for 2nd time in 2 yrs, now the hose is broken too 
111800 mi

US $500
transmission supports giving out 
116000 mi

US $333
CV joint or something like that. Need to repair plastic side piece on driver's seat AGAIN - #6 I think. 
121700 mi

US $500
Axle and some other part on right front side, hard to get the parts. 
124100 mi

US $600
right front axle finally found ordered and replaced 
142000 mi

US $200
Alternator needed to be replaced; also battery as alternator had damaged it. 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. 
184000 mi

US $1500
not sure 
187000 mi

US $800
compressor third time 
204000 mi

US $1000
5th AC Compressor. Are you sure this car has never been recalled for AC Compressor issues? AC just went out again - it is July of 2017, less than one year since work was done. 
219000 mi

US $425
I needed the ignition module replaced;  also I had a left bright headlight that kept burning out; both were fixed and care is running well (a different shop replaced this part with a defective part)....  
57000 mi

US $250
speed sensor for abs was bad 
63000 mi

US $800
Hole in stainless exhaust flex tube caused by corrosion. 
83000 mi

US $1200
A seal was leaking somewhere in the system. Brakes wouldn't hold when first driving car. 
90200 mi

US $100
Information center was unreadable. Replaced unit. 

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2002 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

63000 mi

US $1200
AC compressor replaced 
87000 mi

US $1100
Fuel pump failed. New fuel pump was defective, failed aftr a couple of days, and replaced at no further cost. 
76000 mi

US $200
Right rear shock leaking. Harsh ride in rear. Replace both rear shocks with OEM parts from dealer. Soft/squishy brake pedal, poor stopping distance. Flushed and bled brake system. This improved pedal feel and greatly improved stopping distance. 
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. 
94800 mi

US $1170
Slave cylinder gave out. Slave is internal to the bellhousing requiring removal of the trans. W/ 84K miles, did the clutch disc and pressure plate as well. 
95000 mi

US $200
Power steering pressure hose burst. Replaces both pressure hoses as 2nd line was corroded and split open during repair of 1st line. 
34100 mi

C $170
New antenna. 
35340 mi

C $940
New A/C and muffler repair. 
41540 mi

C $600
New alternator. 
44640 mi

C $100
Coolant temp sensor. 
47120 mi

C $300
Crank position sensor. 
48360 mi

C $400
Brake caliper. Sway bar link. 
51150 mi

C $300
New wheel bearing 
52080 mi

C $550
New water pump. 
55800 mi

C $600
Scan codes, filters and re-re a/c 
57040 mi

C $791
New A/C 
58280 mi

C $136
Replace and reseal rear tail light. 
60140 mi

C $1800
New stainless steel exhaust, new pads and rotors on all four corners and new ball joint. 
60760 mi

C $300
Rear window failure. Stays in down position.  
63860 mi

C $500
Front spring and control arm. Change spark plugs.  
67580 mi

C $200
Replace parking brake cable 
68200 mi

C $300
Another rear window stayed in down position.  Other rear window stayed in down position. 
68820 mi

C $900
New alternator 
77680 mi

C $150
Washer pump not working. Check valve replaced. Key fob dead. 
88840 mi

C $500
Idler pulley, oil pressure switch 
91140 mi

C $1200
Need new clutch. Simply wore out. 
92240 mi

C $300
Wheel bearing 
105400 mi

C $250
Strut assembly blew threw the body. 
107460 mi

C $700
Rear rotors, pads and callipers replaced. 
156000 mi

US $268
HVAC recirculation flap motor inoperative; replaced.  
167000 mi

US $1800
Replaced clutch, slave cylinder, axle seals and rear main seal. Replaced leaking valve cover gasket, distributor O ring and retorqued head bolts. 
187200 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. 
197000 mi

US $600
Alternator/charging light came on. Alternator was found to have failed, and was replaced. 
211000 mi

US $400
Coolant temp gauge reading erratically, sometimes setting of CEL. Coolant temp sensor found to be failing and was replaced. Upon owner request to change/refill gearbox lubricant, dealer noticed one of the seals leaking. The seal was replaced along with the gearbox oil. 
182500 mi

US $1400
HVAC blower fan was not working, found to be wiring fault, and wiring connector was replaced. A/C compressor clutch was making noise. A/C compressor replaced, along with drier and expansion valve. 

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2002 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

82000 mi

US $800
A/C compressor clutch failure. Replaced A/C compressor. 
85000 mi

US $200
Crankcase position sensor replaced. 
120700 mi

US $700
Fuel pump. Pounded on gas tank to get car to start. 
141300 mi

US $1700
Alternator went bad... died. had to be replaced. Since 
55000 mi

US $790
Motors in both driver and passenger windows went out 
81000 mi

US $1700
driver and passenger side springs broke Fuel sensor failed 
90000 mi

US $550
The transmission switch...for starting...had to be replaced 
104000 mi

US $1000
New alternator. Oil leaks were repaired. The water pump was replaced. 

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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. 
45880 mi

C $1500
Replaced a/c compressor. Still not working, will check coil next. 

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2001 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 230hp 2.3L I4 5-speed manual FWD

121000 mi

US $800
transaxle seals leaking front right bearing started to seize. Bearing and assembly replaced. 
122100 mi

US $1300
radiator, water pump, heater core 

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2001 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

93000 mi

US $2885
Oil leak from timing cover onto alternator, alternator had to be replaced. Tie rod ends worn out, left tie rod end dangerously worn and close to detaching, all tie rods replaced. Front struts and rear shocks worn out, new strut insert and shocks installed. 

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2001 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 185hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

170000 mi

US $800
Replaced brake master cylinder.  
170000 mi

US $2100
Replaced clutch and clutch master/slave cylinders.  

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2001 Saab 9-3 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 185hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

132000 mi

US $1264
Front end wear. Ripped right boot. Oil change. Flush brake fluid. 
133000 mi

US $2560
Auto needed a valve job 
150800 mi

US $957
Check engine light cam one about 75% of the time. Slight leak of coolant/anti freeze Radiator leak 
155000 mi

US $150
Hatchback did not stay up. Struts had to be replaced. 
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 4-speed automatic FWD

149700 mi

US $430
Broken climate control unit, replaced with used.  Gear shifter linkage tightened and sensor replaced. 
150000 mi

US $300
convertible top motor 
152000 mi

US $1600
Hydraulic system for the convertible top shifter cable 
158000 mi

US $974
idler arm pulley mount broke which ruined several pulleys and the belt. several hoses and connectors needed replacing 
165000 mi

US $1125
replaced several front end pieces. 
166000 mi

US $886
replace fuel pump 
178000 mi

US $239
replaced 2 sensors 

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2001 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 185hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

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 
78000 mi

US $300
Original wood trim cracked and peeling. Replaced with aftermarket product. 
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 
94000 mi

US $350
Neutral safety switch (2nd one) Seat belt retractor on drivers side failed and locked closed. Recall issue on other model years. 
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

125000 mi

US $700
Routine brake replacement Engine and transmission mounts replaced. 
127000 mi

US $900
Tires 
128000 mi

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

US $1600
Clutch replacement 
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 
59076 mi

US $1115
REPLACE TRANS MOUNT,TRANSAXLE ASSEMBLY - Removal & Installation,(Combination) FLYWHEEL - Remove & Replace,OIL PAN GASKET - Remove & Replace 
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

127000 mi

US $220
Noise when turning steering wheel, empty power steering fluid reservoir every 15-20 miles, failed/broken power steering rack seals. Noise and rattling from front end, especially when driving over bumps. Deteriorating/failing front strut tops/mounts and struts. 
192000 mi

US $1500
Steering Rack Replaced with rebuilt unit. Then hose leaks, then more repairs before alignment, ball joints, struts, idler arm, outer tie rod end... 

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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.  Radio antena replaced/fixed. 
106000 mi

US $4000
Power steering pump had to be rebuilt. 
106500 mi

US $850
Replaced tie rod ends and strut mounts. 
102000 mi

US $1500
Brakes needed repair as well as struts, shocks and other items as well 

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1999 Saab 9-3 2-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD

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 Sedans, Convertibles, and Wagons.
See TrueDelta's information for all Saab models.

Saab 9-3 Expensive 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.