2003 Saab 9-3 Saab 9-3 2003

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2003 Saab 9-3 repairs by problem area

Engine (34%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (7%)

Brakes and Traction Control (3%)

Suspension and Steering (12%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (34%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (6%)

Other (4%)

Chart based on 308 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2003 Saab 9-3.

2003 Saab 9-3 repair cost distribution

$2500+ (2%)

$1000 - $2499 (9%)

$500 - $999 (19%)

$100 - $499 (35%)

< $100 (34%)

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

Chart based on 239 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2003 Saab 9-3

Engine not specified

Saab 9-3 in Utah, United States
Dec 2007 - Mar 2010
Jan 2008

51000 mi

US $73
Changed Exhaust parts and reset ECU program by Tech II machine. Check engine light comes up again. I don't know do I pay for it again or not. I will pick up my car tomorrow. Dealer told me that if those problem relate with previous, they will not charge it to me. But, if it is not related with same problem, they will 
Saab 9-3 in California, United States
Aug 2010 - Jun 2011
Sep 2010

50000 mi

US $10
Told I needed to replace the Head light connectors. Cost $300.00. Bought connectors myself and repaired myself. Cost $10 
Saab 9-3 in Connecticut, United States
Jun 2010 - Jul 2011
Jan 2011

US $950
right front wheel bearing, 450 replaced radiator, 500 
Jul 2011

166000 mi
clutch master cylinder Secondary air injection pump Right front shock/strut Exhaust mounts rusted out and was barely hanging on. Autolocking door cylinder, Trunk latch not working Fuel pump sending unit not working (gas gauge doesn't work) 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in Missouri, United States
Sep 2010 - May 2011
Oct 2010

77800 mi

US $200
Window regulator was broken Head Lights, Fog Lights Window regulator was broken 
May 2011

89000 mi

US $440
Replaced amp under the drivers seat  and windshield wiper transmission. 
Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States
May 2009 - Jul 2009
Jul 2009

97000 mi
When sold, sunroof motor needed to be replaced as it would not work during hot summer days (this was already replaced 1 other time in 2007). When sold an air intake problem caused the car to severely shudder (and almost stall out) during heavy acceleration. 
Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Nov 2011 - Jun 2016
Dec 2011

97000 mi

US $100
Drivers side rear door actuator fault. 
Jul 2013

122700 mi

US $200
Bad caliper 
Dec 2014

141000 mi

US $150
Power steering pump replacement, bad seal 
Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Aug 2010 - Mar 2011
Sep 2010

112000 mi

US $60
The ball joint was bad on the left front and replaced with a used part. 
Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States
Aug 2010 - Sep 2012
Sep 2010

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 
Mar 2011

71000 mi

US $247
Replaced LH front upper strut mount and bearing. Replaced LH front sway bar link. 
Jun 2011

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) 
Dec 2011

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. 
Mar 2012

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. 
Jun 2012

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. 
Saab 9-3 in Delaware, United States
Apr 2010 - Jun 2011
May 2010

109000 mi

US $250
The headlights were unusually dim. One of the light bulbs was incorrectly installed and the wiring was discolored. The dealer replaced the wiring and bulbs. The lights are much better; although, I still wish that they were brighter. 
Saab 9-3 in Greece
Jun 2010 - Mar 2023
Dec 2011

66960 mi

€80
Replaced boost control valve 
Jun 2013

73160 mi

€150
Engine mount 
Jul 2014

76360 mi

€15
I had to replace myself the broken reverse lock plastic piece under the gear lever. Cost 15 euro. I did it myself. 
Mar 2023

93620 mi

€100
Intake hose from M A F to turbo was broken 
Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Nov 2012 - Dec 2012
Dec 2012

75000 mi

US $1100
emissions air pump 
Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States
Mar 2011 - Mar 2014
Nov 2011

198000 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. 
Mar 2014

258000 mi

US $500
water pump broke 
Saab 9-3 in Connecticut, United States
Oct 2012 - Nov 2012
Nov 2012

117000 mi

US $100
SAI Cutoff valve 
Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Dec 2006 - Jun 2011
Aug 2008

67000 mi

US $480
The check valve for the SAI pump did not work. The fuel pump sensor had to be replaced. 
Dec 2008

69000 mi

US $310
Driver side window regulator did not work. 
May 2010

80000 mi
The front left spring was broken. 
Dec 2010

84000 mi

US $100
One of the ignition coils stopped working and had to be replaced.  
Saab 9-3 in Missouri, United States
Dec 2006 - Apr 2007
Feb 2007

56000 mi
Throttle "helper spring" dislodged because the clip that holds it in place broke. I discovered it on the floorboard 
Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Dec 2006 - Mar 2010
Feb 2008

51000 mi

US $827
Ignition switch and steering wheel lock failure. Could not start car. Could not turn ignition switch. 
Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
- Aug 2006
Jan 2006

40000 mi
Replaced front end suspension. under warranty 
Aug 2006

44000 mi
Window fell off track. While in car wash! warranty 
Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States
Dec 2012 - Jan 2013
Jan 2013

188000 mi

US $150
Coil Pack replacement 
Saab 9-3 in Colorado, United States
Aug 2015 - Mar 2017
Jun 2016

171000 mi

US $30
Radio signal very weak, no stations being received clearly, FM or AM. Replace antenna amplifier with a used unit purchased on eBay. Repair not successful. 
Feb 2017

173000 mi

US $16
Passenger side low-beam bulb replaced. 
Saab 9-3 in New Hampshire, United States
Feb 2006 - Jul 2012
Jan 2006

24272 mi
OnStar amp replaced 
Feb 2006

24714 mi
Emergency brake handle replaced 
Dec 2006

30972 mi
OnStar box replaced 
Aug 2007

37000 mi

US $25
Loose heat shield. 
Mar 2010

51000 mi
Front coil springs broken, replaced. Front struts and steering links replaced 
Jan 2012

55100 mi

US $788
Secondary Air Injection pump and check valve had failed. They were replaced. 
Feb 2012

63000 mi

US $500
Fuel tank level sender replaced 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

Saab 9-3 in Arizona, United States
Jun 2016 - Jun 2016
Jun 2016

119000 mi
radiator/hoses leak. headlight went out. 
Saab 9-3 in Tennessee, United States
Mar 2012 - Mar 2015
Apr 2012

139800 mi

US $150
Weeping radiator from plastic fins on both driver and passenger sides. Ordered replacement radiator, installed by self. 
Aug 2012

149000 mi

US $40
Rubber seal between engine and power steering pump had deteriorated, allowing oil to flow unilaterally into the power steering pump and reservoir. Removed power steering pump, replaced seal with viton aftermarket seal. Reassembled. 
Jan 2013

US $45
Exterior "shark fin" dummy antenna showed severe signs of rotting. Rear parcel shelf, C-Pillar trim, and top brake light cover removed. Unscrewed antenna bolt, severed old, nonfunctional OnStar wires. Installed new antenna, reassembled. 
Jun 2013

155000 mi

US $55
Lower oxygen sensor failed 
Nov 2013

158600 mi

US $240
Alternator went bad. Replaced alternator and (still good) serpentine belt. 
Jan 2015

163000 mi

US $42
Brake booster vacuum line had rotted away from power steering pump leak. Replaced part with new part supplied by dealer. 
Feb 2015

176600 mi

US $200
Outer tie rod ends and sway bar links worn causing sloppy steering and uneven tire wear. Replaced at home. 
Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States
Jan 2006 - Jun 2011
Aug 2006

49000 mi
Rear Main Engine Seal 
Aug 2009

49500 mi
Door Gasket Leaking, replaced 
Jan 2010

102500 mi

US $630
Replace Alternator 
Mar 2010

105000 mi

US $60
Gearbox Malfunction, Limp home. Problem resolved but reappeared 1 hr after leaving shop. 
Dec 2010

113000 mi

US $35
All Warning Lights coming on, Radio/Dash not Lighting..... Battery was disconnected for a time.... problem never returned. Saab Gremlins 
Saab 9-3 in Ohio, United States
Sep 2012 - Sep 2013
Sep 2013

41000 mi

US $140
Sway bar linkages replaced, bilaterally 
Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States
Aug 2013 - Jun 2015
Aug 2014

109300 mi

US $250
Bad coil 
May 2015

120700 mi

US $90
Recharge A/C. No leak found? 
Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Aug 2011 - Jan 2013
Sep 2011

91000 mi
passenger side door has no power. window, lock and mirror not working. disconnected and reconnected battery to clear error. also cleared immobilizer failure error. 
Saab 9-3 in Connecticut, United States
Oct 2015 - Nov 2015
Oct 2015

108000 mi

US $900
Replaced coils. 
Nov 2015

108000 mi

US $600
Vacuum intake, fuel pump, system flush 
Saab 9-3 in Taiwan
Jul 2010 - Sep 2011
Jun 2010

62125 mi

$1450
Steering and suspension, repair 
Jul 2010

63011 mi

$13
antenna cover replacement 
Aug 2010

64187 mi

$60
intake pressure sensor 
Dec 2010

66654 mi

$70
cd player parts 
May 2011

72736 mi

$300
brake vaccum pump oil seal replacement preheating oxygen sensor replacement 
Jul 2011

74957 mi

$175
water temp. regulator coolant coolant reservior  
Aug 2011

75956 mi

$170
rear right window motor rear oxygen sensor replacement 
Sep 2011

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 
Saab 9-3 in New Hampshire, United States
Apr 2010 - Jun 2011
May 2010

70000 mi

US $100
Rough shifts (automatic transmission) going from Reverse to Drive where the whole car would rattle and a metallic noise would sound from under the hood. Also had rough shifts from first to second. Replaced transmission. 
Saab 9-3 in Florida, United States
Jan 2006 - Mar 2010
Apr 2006

38500 mi
Saab Hood Emblem replaced ACC trim panel replaced due to peeling finish on button 
Jun 2006

42000 mi
Drivers side door handle replaced due to fading OnStar shark fin antenna replaced due to fading 
Feb 2007

54000 mi
headlight assembly failure cd player failure 
May 2007

60000 mi

US $661
Headlight bulb shorted out. Transmission cooler line came loose. 
Jun 2008

81000 mi
Main seal leaking 
Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Jan 2008 - Mar 2010
Feb 2008

90000 mi

US $849
Car wouldn't shift right. 
Mar 2008

92000 mi

US $876
Gearbox malfunction light came on not even 24 hours after getting it back from 23 days in the shop. 
Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Oct 2008 - Sep 2012
Dec 2008

55150 mi
Column Integration Module (Saab Part No. 12805196) replaced. 
Jun 2009

63000 mi
A/C blower motor was replaced Both front springs were replaced 
Feb 2010

73000 mi

US $300
passenger side, rear caliper seized, locking that wheel 
Feb 2011

89300 mi

US $340
Tie-rod end replaced. 
May 2011

91000 mi

US $130
Sway bar link was broken 
Aug 2011

93300 mi

US $120
loose exhaust heat shield 
Sep 2012

112000 mi

US $180
replace one rear caliper and rotor. replace pads, both sides, rear. 
Saab 9-3 in Ontario, Canada
Nov 2007 - Mar 2010
Dec 2007

52700 mi

C $161
Strut mount worn, replaced both and included water guard. Alignment required and paid for by customer. Xenon light flickering. Headlamp module and socket repair may be needed. Module repaired unsuccessful in fixing issue Headlamp Socket was repaired subsequent to headlamp module being repaired. Problem seems to have been fixed at this point. 
Feb 2008

55180 mi

C $100
Parking brake would not release. Wheels would not move, car needed to be towed to dealer. Dealer was able to release parking brake. There is a TSB on the parking brake release issue, dealer did not offer repair, said "try not to use it". 
Aug 2008

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. 
Sep 2008

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.  
Feb 2009

69440 mi
CD changer skips in cold weather. Known issue with Clarion cd changer, dealer refuses to fix because could not replicate in warm shop. Also, only occurs during driving, and dealer did not test drive.  Replaced rusty wheel bolts. (known issue, to rust). 
Mar 2009

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. 
Saab 9-3 in Connecticut, United States
Feb 2008 - Mar 2010
Saab 9-3 in New South Wales, Australia
Oct 2009 - Aug 2010
Mar 2009

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!! 
Aug 2010

39680 mi
Many ongoing problems when sold. Ignition control unit (ICU)... radio... interior trim, rattles, the car continued to rattle, squeak, and fall apart. 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

Saab 9-3 in Maryland, United States
Nov 2008 - Mar 2010
Mar 2009

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

Saab 9-3 in Washington, United States
Mar 2012 - Sep 2018
Aug 2015

166000 mi

US $600
The electronic steering look system was malfunctioning. The repair shop took the ignition control module apart and cleaned all contacts on the circuitry. 
Jan 2018

178000 mi

US $500
Blower fan was seized. Mechanic replaced blower fan and resitor. 
Feb 2018

178000 mi

US $400
Left rear tail light circut board was shorting. Tail lights break light and turn signals would work intermintly. Replaced tail light circut board,wiring harness and conector. 
Saab 9-3 in Komi Rep., Russia
Nov 2007 - Jun 2010
Sep 2007

55800 mi

$200
1. Thrust bearing, PartNo 9191181 2. Support bearing, PartNo 24435884 
Jun 2008

59520 mi
Replaced in Rear axel: 1. Cross stay upper 2. Cross stay 3. Links for the anti-roll bar 4. Almost bushings  
Dec 2008

69440 mi
Driver's window stopped go up & down. Because of frost it freezed and broked the plastic "piece" which is holding the rope... 
Saab 9-3 in Maine, United States
Jul 2012 - Apr 2015
Oct 2012

135800 mi
Had to replace rear brake pads and calipers, and turn the front rotors. 
Jul 2014

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. 
Nov 2014

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. 
Mar 2015

163000 mi

US $2500
Bar was replaced, along with three springs. front light again went out -- cost $200! 
Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States
Jan 2007 - Mar 2010
Mar 2007

36000 mi
Fuel gauge 
Apr 2007

37000 mi
fuel pump 
Jun 2007

37000 mi
charcoal canister for fuel system 
Saab 9-3 in Quebec, Canada
- Jan 2008
Jan 2008 front strut mount bearings, both sides Airbag system failure 
Saab 9-3 in Georgia, United States
- Apr 2011
Mar 2010

US $2400
AC motor replaced, because it was locking up and the belt was slipping as it is connected to the AC motor. 
Apr 2010

60000 mi

US $200
Coolant leak tube replaced. 
May 2010

62000 mi
Coolant leak fixed again. 
Mar 2011

75000 mi

US $650
Interior A/C Vent Motor Failed 
Apr 2011

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. 
Saab 9-3 in Ohio, United States
Apr 2013 - Jun 2018
Jun 2018

240000 mi
Car sold - Still ran great engine and transmission-wise! Has oil leak (moderate),  trans leak (minor), no other major problems! 
Saab 9-3 in Georgia, United States
Dec 2002 - Feb 2008
Dec 2002

2000 mi
Car failed to start. Towed and repaired under warranty. 
May 2004

35000 mi
onstar unit failed. Replaced under warranty 
Oct 2004

48000 mi
pass door and window inoperative. Replaced under warranty 
Mar 2005

60000 mi
pass door and window relay inoperative. Replaced free under Saab "program" 
Oct 2006

64500 mi

US $1008
Rear crank seal leaking, replaced 
Nov 2006

65000 mi

US $400
inoperative climate control system. Electronic fault. 
Jul 2007

68000 mi

US $650
Drivers side front and rear window regulators malfunctioned same week. Motors ok, regulator lifts only replaced. 
Saab 9-3 in Ontario, Canada
Jan 2007 - Aug 2008
Mar 2007

46500 mi
"Gearbox Malfunction - Limited Performance - Contact Saab Dealer" error message displayed on SID. Cleared by dealer. 
Apr 2007

48360 mi

C $100
Power steering pump replacement. 
Apr 2008

62000 mi

C $100
6-disc changer replaced. 
May 2008

62620 mi
Replaced 6 disc in-dash changer due to constant skipping. 
Aug 2008

63860 mi

C $600
Replaced the AC fan and amplifier a few weeks before I sold it, it had moisture build-up and had stopped working. 
Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Jan 2014 - Sep 2014
Apr 2014

151800 mi

US $235
Tensioner broke, snapping the belt rendering the car inoperable. 
May 2014

156000 mi

US $500
Alternator went. 
Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Oct 2014 - Mar 2016
Jan 2015

127000 mi

US $230
Replace alternator and serpentine belt 
Mar 2016

141000 mi

US $1100
Replaced entire exhaust system 
Saab 9-3 in Georgia, United States
May 2007 - Feb 2012
Apr 2007

65000 mi
Replaced solar sensor and the display unit. Covered under extended warranty. 
Aug 2007

74000 mi
Driver's seat does not stay up (seat height). Needs to be manually raised each time when getting in the car. A number of parts have been replaced, but the problem still exists. 
Sep 2007

76000 mi
Under warranty. Same ongoing problem with the drivers seat. They replaced the frame. Still same problem exists. Front passenger window failed while going down. Made a loud noise and then stopped working. Repaired under warranty. 
Oct 2007

76000 mi
Passenger window stopped working. 
Jan 2008

82000 mi
Same problem with falling driver seat. Engine light came on. Dealer replaced some kind of vacuum part. Rear windshield rubber molding disintegrating. Replaced. 
Jul 2008

84000 mi
Engine light caused by faulty engine "back flow(?)" valve. Replaced under CPO warranty. 
Sep 2008

86000 mi
Immobilizer malfunction. Had to replace ignition key module. 
Mar 2011

104000 mi

US $220
Transmission revving when slowing down. Flushed and replaced fluid. 
Feb 2012

110000 mi

US $300
Clogged drain resulting in wet interior. 
Saab 9-3 in New Mexico, United States
Jul 2011 - Oct 2011
Sep 2011

99000 mi

US $800
Replacement of alternator assembly. 
Saab 9-3 in Connecticut, United States
Dec 2008 - Sep 2014
May 2009

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. 
Sep 2009

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. 
Oct 2009

73000 mi

US $168
Rear Main Seal continued a slow oil leak, as Dealership foretold. Returned to Dealer, where problem was successfully repaired. 
Nov 2009

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. 
Mar 2010

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. 
Aug 2010

83000 mi

US $100
Fuel Sensor and Fuel Sender replaced. 
Sep 2010

84000 mi

US $550
oil leak in gasket behind timing belt. water leak in cowl drain. cowl and drainage system replaced. 
Dec 2011

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. 
May 2014

126300 mi

US $1200
Water pump replaced. 
Sep 2014

127000 mi
Clutch is going. Transmission needs replacing. No cost because I am not repairing it. 
Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States
Nov 2008 - Mar 2010
Dec 2008

54000 mi
The blower on the heater stopped working so no air was coming out of the vents. My wife was borrowing the car that day and had the worst drive of her life in an unbearably cold car. Dealer installed new blower. 
Saab 9-3 in Rhode Island, United States
Jun 2010 - Jul 2013
Jul 2010

86000 mi
Ignition switch went bad Front upper strut mount broken 
Aug 2010

88000 mi

US $400
Fixed original strut mount problem 
Feb 2011

93000 mi

US $750
Steering lock solenoid seized causing the car immobilizer to not allow startup. 
Saab 9-3 in California, United States
May 2004 - Mar 2013
Mar 2004

6200 mi
Gearbox malfunction. Reprogrammed SPS. Covered by warranty. 
Nov 2004

12600 mi
Water pump bolts leaking, reseal bolts. Covered by warranty. Onstar unit replaced. 
Feb 2005

15300 mi
Door handles replaced under warranty. 
Nov 2005

21300 mi
Remote keys replaced under warranty 
Jan 2006

23000 mi
Transmission slips between 2nd and 3rd. No problem found. 
Mar 2006

23900 mi
Steering wheel lock malfunction. 
Apr 2006

25500 mi
Brake booster vacuum recall. Low coolant. Radiator leak on driver side seam. Replaced under warranty. Gearbox malfunction light. Short to ground SLM. Readd SLM under warranty. 
Jul 2006

27600 mi
Transmission replaced under warranty 
Nov 2006

31000 mi
Performed oil cooler quick coupling reprogramming under warranty 
Mar 2007

21300 mi
Battery failure, replaced under warranty. 
Apr 2008

43800 mi
Gearbox malfunction. P0826-06 fault code. Readjust SLM. No charge. 
Nov 2008

47900 mi

US $260
Driver side window regulator replaced. 
Jun 2010

63000 mi

US $460
Window regulator replaced in front passenger side 
Oct 2011

74000 mi

US $60
Gearbox malfunction on display. Repair shop said they could not duplicate, probably intermittent problem. 
Saab 9-3 in New Hampshire, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2011
Mar 2010

94000 mi
Anti-vibration shaft chain tensioner needs to be replaced. Spring mounts need to be replaced. Auxiliary air pump needs to be replaced. 
Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Sep 2008 - Dec 2010
Oct 2008

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. 
Aug 2009

71000 mi

US $950
Replace front and rear main seals to correct an engine oil leak. 
Jul 2010

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. 
Saab 9-3 in Oklahoma, United States
Sep 2009 - Jun 2011
Jan 2010

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. 
Jun 2010

82000 mi

US $600
The vehicle was leaking coolant. Waterpump had to be replaced. 
Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States
Jan 2009 - Jul 2009
Jul 2009

90000 mi

US $880
O2 sensor. O2 sensor wiring harness compromised, allowing moisture in. Took three repair trips to resolve. Shocks. 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Apr 2015 - Sep 2018
Dec 2015

105000 mi

US $340
replaced SAI pump/or smog pump, and the SAI check valve. Bought both from eEuroparts.com 
May 2018

128000 mi

US $80
Replaced rusted out flex pipe 
Saab 9-3 in Washington, United States
Jun 2014 - Jun 2015
Apr 2015

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. 
Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Feb 2006 - Mar 2010
Jan 2006

26000 mi
traction control problem, front end noise, and saab emblems looked to be coming apart 
Apr 2006

32000 mi
passenger side seatbelt warning light came on with no one in seat and front end noise from suspension. fixed the seat sensor, and still no fix for the front end noise. 
May 2006

34000 mi
fog lamp went out, rear seat release broke, driver side lumbar cable snapped, traction control issue again, and sunroof would close then go back open, staying in the open position. software fix for sunroof, replaced the lamp and fixed the lumbar in seat. 
Jul 2006

36000 mi

US $556
replaced front rotors and brakes, front end noise continues - no fix, interior knobs peeling, door handles faded, and alarm going off for no reason inside of garage. software for alarm, replace knobs, door handles, and lug nuts 
Oct 2006

42500 mi
window framing came apart in door and dent the door skin outward fortunatly the window was stuck up, new clutch assist spring put in and it broke and was squeaking, replaced window frame and spring. scheduled to get body work fixed. 
Dec 2006

51000 mi
front end noise still and issue - nothing. replace all control arms and still didn't fix the noise, had gotten really bad and now (jan 6 2007) still there. shift knob came apart and front passenger side door close sensor is bad saying the door is staying  
Mar 2007

55000 mi

US $350
this car sucks goat balls. I had every light up front out when i took it to the shop. Every drive light the only thing that worked was on fog light i had replace one month ago. I did hire a lawyer and he got me three thosand dollars from saab because this 
Saab 9-3 in Wisconsin, United States
Jan 2013 - Aug 2013
Mar 2013

88000 mi
Strut bearings and struts replaced. 
Jun 2013

89000 mi

US $581
Engine and transmission mounts replaced to solve buzzing/rattling and rough engine. Problem not solved. 
Jul 2013

89000 mi

US $961
The problem ended up being a balance shaft tensioner. 
Saab 9-3 in California, United States
Jul 2010 - Jan 2016
Nov 2010

72000 mi

US $150
Steering wheel mounted switch for audio volume control failed. Replacement part was ordered, but not yet installed.  
Saab 9-3 in Ohio, United States
Oct 2008 - Mar 2011
Mar 2009

78000 mi

US $16
Left low beam headlight burned out. Took an hour to get the bulb from a parts store and replace it myself. 
May 2010

104000 mi

US $750
Fuel pump needed replacement. 
Saab 9-3 in Quebec, Canada
Oct 2010 - Dec 2011
Nov 2010

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. 
Jul 2011

123160 mi

C $240
Replaced leaking oil pressure switch. Also had the serpentine drive belt replaced. Car had 199954km at the time. 
Sep 2011

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. 
Saab 9-3 in Wisconsin, United States
Jul 2007 - Nov 2008
Oct 2007

69000 mi

US $250
FRONT WHEEL BEARING-UNDER WARRANTY OIL CHANGE, ROTATE TIRES, REPLACE SOME BULBS & AIR FILTERS, REAR BRAKES-GENERAL MAINTENANCE 
Saab 9-3 in Colorado, United States
Jan 2011 - Mar 2011
Feb 2011

96000 mi

US $325
Alternator died; Having mechanic put in but one isn't available from distributor for two weeks! Called Saab dealer and will cost $1100 to repair!! Left headlight went out. It cost me $300 for a new one!! I think they called it a Zion light (Xenon) which is more expensive. This car is costing me an arm and leg to repair. Great car BUT will cost you to fix!! Alternator died; Having mechanic put in but one isn't available from distributor for two weeks! Called Saab dealer and will cost $1100 to repair!!  Left headlight went out. It cost me $300 for a new one!! I think they called it a Zion light which is more expensive. This car is costing me an arm and leg to repair. Great car BUT will cost you to fix!! 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD

Saab in Pennsylvania, United States
Dec 2006 - Mar 2010
Apr 2007

37000 mi
CD Changer jammed while attempting to change from one disk to another. Unable to remove any disks; needed a new disk changer. install cd changer water leak in right rear footwell. Not sure if caused by what appeared to be an improperly installed doorseal or not, dealer tested integrity of door seal & repositioned. 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder automatic 2WD

Saab 9-3 in Washington, United States
Feb 2007 - Mar 2010
Jul 2007

43000 mi
Oil pump leaking fluid. 
Saab 9-3 in Georgia, United States
Feb 2007 - Mar 2010
Mar 2007

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

Saab 9-3 in Ontario, Canada
Jul 2008 - Mar 2010
Sep 2008

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. 
Dec 2008

63240 mi

C $360
This was a TSB for PCV valve retrofit to avoid possible sludge build up. 
Jan 2009

65100 mi

C $560
Water pump replaced. 
Saab 9-3 in Great Britain
Mar 2013 - Jun 2016
Jul 2013

76500 mi

£155
altenator burnt out ignition system failed 

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2003 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in California, United States
Jun 2011 - Jul 2018
Jul 2011

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. 
Oct 2011

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. 
Jan 2012

105800 mi

US $1140
temp sensor for coolant 
Jan 2013

105000 mi
intermittent engine temp sensor failure grinding noise from passenger side mid-engine (around drive belts) 
Jun 2017

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

Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States
Apr 2009 - Sep 2018
Sep 2010

95000 mi

US $250
Pulley and bearing on alternator failed, serpentine belt destroyed. Alternator replaced, serpentine replaced. 
Sep 2011

106000 mi

US $200
Alternator replaced 
Oct 2011

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. 
Mar 2016

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. 
Saab 9-3 in New Hampshire, United States
Oct 2010 - Oct 2018
Jun 2011

95000 mi
Plastic piece on driver seat replaced 4 times (varies from $40-$60 each time) -- very cheap plastic. This time collision shop found a way to bolt it down and did not replace it -- so far, so good. 
Aug 2011

98000 mi

US $1500
replace ac compressor for 2nd time in 2 yrs, now the hose is broken too 
Sep 2011

99000 mi
AC hose replaced 
Apr 2012

111800 mi

US $500
transmission supports giving out 
Jul 2012

116000 mi

US $333
CV joint or something like that. Need to repair plastic side piece on driver's seat AGAIN - #6 I think. 
Oct 2012

121700 mi

US $500
Axle and some other part on right front side, hard to get the parts. 
Nov 2012

124100 mi

US $600
right front axle finally found ordered and replaced 
Jan 2013

126200 mi

US $80
left front headlight not working on high beams; upon checking it is noted by owner that light is not working at all 
Mar 2013

132000 mi

US $40
The light was actually fixed this time. 
Sep 2013

142000 mi

US $200
Alternator needed to be replaced; also battery as alternator had damaged it. 02 sensor, about a week after the alternator 
Apr 2014

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. 
Mar 2016

184000 mi

US $1500
not sure 
Jun 2016

187000 mi

US $800
compressor third time 
Sep 2016

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. 
Sep 2018

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)....  
Oct 2018

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 
Saab 9-3 in Georgia, United States
Aug 2007 - Mar 2010
Jun 2008

55000 mi
repair/replacement of ignition sensor and replace serpentine belt. 
Mar 2009

64000 mi

US $350
A/C switch went bad also cabin filter replaced. 
Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Feb 2011 - Sep 2016
Jul 2016

156000 mi

US $300
Exhaust system...muffler 
Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Mar 2010 - Sep 2015
Apr 2010

57000 mi

US $250
speed sensor for abs was bad 
Dec 2010

63000 mi

US $800
Hole in stainless exhaust flex tube caused by corrosion. 
Mar 2013

83000 mi

US $1200
A seal was leaking somewhere in the system. Brakes wouldn't hold when first driving car. 
Jan 2014

92200 mi
Information center was unreadable. Many bad pixels 
May 2014

90200 mi

US $100
Information center was unreadable. Replaced unit. 
Jun 2015

94000 mi
Stretched timing chain. 
Saab 9-3 in Alabama, United States
Jul 2014 - May 2018
Aug 2014

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. Replaced ACC fan controller with used unit 
Oct 2014

115300 mi
AC compressor/expansion valve/receiver-dryer replacement. Compressor clutch pulley bearing noisy. Update March: Still underway. The replacement compressor wasn't quite correct one, so old one went back on and a short-belt bypass is currently in place. 
May 2015

121000 mi

US $165
Replaced compressor 

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2003 Saab 9-3 Repair Histories

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 2003 Saab 9-3 problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.