Saab 9-3 problems
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Saab 9-3 model years
Common Saab 9-3 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Saab 9-3, here is a detailed list of common problems associated with this car:
- Engine Coolant Loss: Many Saab 9-3s (1999 to 2010) experience engine coolant loss due to a porous engine block. Gas and contaminants present during the casting process lead to low coolant levels. Repair attempts like replacing head gaskets and water pumps have had varying success rates. Solutions may involve inspecting the engine block for repair or replacement.
- Loud Noises on Rough Roads: The front-wheel-drive design of the second-generation Saab 9-3 (2002 to 2011) puts strain on the front suspension, causing top mounts and bearings to fail between 35,000 to 185,000 miles. This issue results in loud noises when driving on rough roads and may require replacement of these components for improved driving comfort.
- ECU, Electric Windows, and Rattles: Some owners have reported problems with the engine's ECU, faults with electric windows, and various rattles and creaks in the Saab 9-3. These issues can impact the overall driving experience and comfort of the vehicle, requiring careful inspection and potential repairs to address them.
- Uneven Tyre Wear and Clutch/Gearbox Troubles: Watch out for uneven tyre wear, which could indicate misaligned suspension or worn tyres, especially in hotter versions that can wear out fronts quickly. Additionally, be cautious of clutch slip and gearbox troubles, as these can affect the performance and drivability of the Saab 9-3. Ensuring a full service history and checking for specific features like leather trim and a good stereo system can enhance the resale value of the car.
These common problems highlight areas where Saab 9-3 owners may encounter issues, emphasizing the importance of thorough inspections and regular maintenance to address these concerns effectively.
Is a Saab 9-3 reliable?
The 9-3 is one of the most reliable and cost-efficient vehicles in the market. Some of its issues can be tedious to deal with, but most of them are preventable and repairable. If you're thinking of buying the Saab 9-3, keep in mind the importance of proper maintenance and repair.
What is the problem with the Saab 9 3x?
There is a well-known issue with Saab 9-3s where leaks can occur between the lubrication and cooling systems due to the chain powered design of the water pump. This issue is one of the more expensive on our list to fix and is definitely one that should make you think twice about parting with your money.
Are Saabs expensive to fix?
The annual maintenance cost of a Saab is $908. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
What is the transmission problem on a Saab 9-3?
Most Common Saab 9-3 Problems
- Transmission Pressure Control Solenoid Failure May Cause Erratic Shifting.
- Nissan Crankshaft and Camshaft Sensor Recall.
- Harsh or Delayed Shifting of Automatic Transmission.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Saab 9-3 years
We have researched Saab problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Saab 9-3 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Saab 9-3 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Saab 9-3 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Saab 9-3 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Saab 9-3 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Saab 9-3 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Suspension problems
- Seat belts problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Saab 9-3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 9-3 model years
A total of 56 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 9-3 model years
There were a total of 22 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 9-3 model years
There were a total of 71 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by 9-3 model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1347 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Saab 9-3 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Saab 9-3 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Saab 9-3 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-30
- VIN: YS3FB79Y086
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Saab 9-3. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 14V318000 (Seat Belts) and 16V063000 (Air Bags); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted; however, the dealer declined to service the vehicle. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Saab 9-3 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-01
- VIN: YS3DD58H7Y2
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The driver's side, side air bag deployed spontaneously. There was no apparent reason or cause, ie no side impact of any kind, no door slamming or other provocation. The car was parked in a garage for six hours before I sat in the car, closed the door, then BLAM! Temperature was moderate, where as the car is often parked on a city street in direct sun. Air bag deployment was a loud bang followed by smoke from an explosive, and a sting on my neck and shoulder where the bag hit me. Bits of foam from the seat interior, where the air bag was located, blew around the car interior. I suffered temporary hearing loss in my left ear due to the loud bang. I was also quite startled. No other people were at risk. No other air bags have deployed since I've owned the car, approx. 20 yrs., purchased used. I will consult an authorized repair shop, insurance agent, and a dealer service center for more info. A Saab dealer service center told me a new replacement air bag would be available from Sweden at a cost of $700. That would be in addition to the cost of repairing the seat, door frame panel, and other items. There were no prior dash board or related fault code messages. The car has never been in an accident or impacted in any way to the best of my knowledge (I saw a Carfax report at purchase).
Saab 9-3 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-15
- VIN: YS3FD45YX41
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Retractor won't pull driver side seat belt back in
Saab 9-3 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-17
- VIN: YS3FC4BY2A1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Saab 9-3. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 11V015000 (Fuel System, Other) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the fuel gauge failed to accurately provide fuel level in the vehicle. The contact stated that while the tank was a half tank full, the fuel gauge would drop to 0 gallons. The failure occurred intermittently. The check engine warning light was illuminated with a message indicating a fuel pump failure. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer confirmed that the remedy was not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 104,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Saab 9-3 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-14
- VIN: YS3DF78K027
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: The radiator exploded, spewing fluids everywhere, overheating my vehicle without warning when I was driving 45 mph, almost causing a multi-car crash.
Saab 9-3 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-03
- VIN: YS3FB79N156
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Saab 9-3. The contact stated that the front passenger's side seat belt failed to latch. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V318000 (Seat Belts). The vehicle was not repaired. There was no further information provided. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Saab 9-3 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-18
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-18
- VIN: YS3FB79Y786
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: at about 98,000 miles the starts to fail transmission fails Also when the car gets too cold in the winter it refuses to start and it is not a battery issue. the cylinders get to cold to start. When the warm weather comes back around it starts again.
Saab 9-3 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-11
- Date Complaint: 2023-02-16
- VIN: YS3DF78K027
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The soft top is faulty and the rear lights are as well.
Saab 9-3 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-04
- VIN: YS3FH46Y041
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Constant random recurrence of error codes P2122 and P2138 (either together or on their own) which results in the car switching to low power mode, with very low acceleration which makes it very dangerous to merge into traffic, pull out of stops, red lights, etc. Technically supposed to require changing the throttle pedal sensor, but changing it does not solve the issue, which is electrical. This is a known issue for GM cars.
Saab 9-3 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-29
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-29
- VIN: YS3FH49Y641
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: ******* DELETE VOQ ******* THIS COMPLAINT IS BEING MARKED FOR DELETION BECAUSE THE CONSUMER PLACED THE REQUEST*DJR ******* DELETE VOQ *******
Saab 9-3 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2021-10-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: YS3DF78K717
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: unexpected and unrequested deployment of driver side seat air bag. i was driving the vehicle at a speed of 0-5mph attempting to back the vehicle into a parking spot when the driver seat air bag deployed. a report was made with the local police department. no indicator or failure lights were present, the vehicle is able to be inspected at this time for further information. It is unknown about any other inspections by anyone other than the local police department.
Saab 9-3 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-26
- Date Complaint: 2021-10-01
- VIN: YS3FH71U366
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Warning message that airbag is not working. Loud hissing sound immediately in front of dashboard, as if air is escaping. We cannot drive the car for fear of the airbag inflating. We are going to have to towed to a repair shop to be fixed and will keep all paperwork.
Saab 9-3 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-31
- Date Complaint: 2021-07-28
- VIN: YS3FB46Y581
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Driver seat belt fails to retract. When retraction failure occurs, it is obvious to the seat occupant immediately. If a crash were to occur with a seat belt in this condition, the result could increase the risk of injury to the driver. The seat belt retraction failure has been reproduced and confirmed. No warning lamps but, the seat belt showed earlier symptoms of not working properly, by not engaging when hard braking occurred. I will have the tensioner replaced.
Saab 9-3 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-29
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-01
- VIN: ys3fa4cy4b1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: driver side seat belt not retracting, there is a recall but does not include this vin number.
Saab 9-3 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-10
- Date Complaint: 2021-05-17
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: ys3df55k112
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I left my home with my daughter in the afternoon to go to the bank and hardware store. I drove to the bank to make a deposit. We had to wait for quite awhile in the drive-through line at the bank, so I turned off my engine a couple of times rather than having the car idle. After making the deposit at the bank, I pulled out of the bank lot and began driving to the hardware store. I had driven for about two minutes and was driving along at approximately 25-30 miles an hour, and suddenly there was a terrible explosion at my left ear and massive pain in my left arm. I thought the car had been shot at and my arm hit. I was terrified we were still being shot at and looked at my daughter whose hands were over her ears. I could tell by that time that I was not bleeding and so was worried that the bullet had hit her. I could hear only faintly out of my left ear. There was smoke and the smell of an explosion. I could see by this time that an airbag had come out of my driver's seat and thought that it had been hit too. My daughter told me she was o.k. and to pull the car over so that we could see what had happened. I was shaking with fear and pain in my arm but finally calmed down enough to park the car and get out to see what had happened. It became clear that the car had not been shot at and that the driver's side seat airbag had simply spontaneously exploded without any warning whatsoever. The driver's seat side seam was completely ripped, multiple pieces of seat foam were lying about, and the air bag in the seat was out and ripped. The seat was still smoking. Luckily I had had my window completely down, or the explosion would have been louder in the car, and my arm and left side could have been more badly injured. I called my longtime Saab repairman who told me that what happened to me was extremely rare. He said I would need a new seat and that the computer system would need to be reset for the airbag system to work again. Insurance will examine soon. I may try GM too.
Latest 5 recalls Saab 9-3
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 47 recalls for different components of the Saab 9-3.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Saab 9-3 2007
- Report Received Date: 2016-02-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on March 1, 2017. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.
- Model: Saab 9-3 2009
- Report Received Date: 2016-02-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on March 1, 2017. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.
- Model: Saab 9-3 2008
- Report Received Date: 2016-02-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on March 1, 2017. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.
- Model: Saab 9-3 2010
- Report Received Date: 2016-02-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on March 1, 2017. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.
- Model: Saab 9-3 2006
- Report Received Date: 2016-02-03
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on March 1, 2017. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.
Latest negative Saab 9-3 car reviews
Latest positive Saab 9-3 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2004
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to reach out because I've had a few issues with my car recently. Over the past three months, I've had to visit the dealership eight times for various problems. These include a security lock system failure, electronic stability control failure, turbo failure at 37k miles, a broken outside temperature sensor, needing to add oil in between oil changes, and a loud clicking sound when making sharp turns. I was wondering if you could help me out with these issues?
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Vehicle year: 2000
I can tell you from personal experience that owning a Viggen was quite an experience. It was like being addicted to a drug, you know it's not good for you but you can't help but love it. Out of all the cars I've owned, the Viggen was by far the most fun to drive. Even more so than my older Porsche and many BMW's. Although, I did have some issues with the engine and had to replace it at 120,000km which cost me a hefty $8000 repair bill. Unfortunately, my dad had a 9-5 at the same time and had nothing but trouble with it. It's a shame that GM ruined these cars. However, if you're looking for a Saab, I would recommend a pre-1991 model as they were much more reliable. On a positive note, my Viggen got AMAZING fuel economy for a turbo car. I once got 1012 km on one tank of gas on a road trip.
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Vehicle year: 2003
If you're someone who enjoys working on cars and doesn't mind the occasional challenge, this car could be a great value for you. I personally bought this car after the previous owner failed to diagnose a blown ignition cassette, but with a little bit of work and only $150, I was able to get a great deal. Some people have reported CEL lights, but this is often due to non-OE specific spark plugs. By taking the time to learn about proper maintenance and service, you can save a lot of money and keep this car running smoothly. I've owned it for a while now and have never had to take it to the shop. I fully expect it to continue running well for the next 50k miles, whether it's in my garage or out on the highway.
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Vehicle year: 2003
I purchased a used 2003 9-3 Saab a few years ago. This was my fourth Saab. It was still under warranty. This model is a far cry from the old Saab. I too, have had issues with lights, engine light on, heat/cooler blower...just to name a few. Even the 6 CD gave me issues. I had the CD into the local dealer several times -- of course, never acted up while at the dealer. Finally (200 miles out of warranty) it acted up -- and they were refusing to honor the warranty!! Gave me a price of $2000 to fix. I was on the phone quite a bit with Saab, when they finally agreed to fix it. Funny thing, the dealer only fixed $1100 of the $2000 -- said the other didn't need fixing!
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Vehicle year: 2006
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with my Saab. I bought it brand new back in 2006 after doing a lot of research, and I have to say, it's been the best vehicle I've ever owned! It's so much fun to drive, and it's really economical, reliable, and functional. Plus, it's amazing in the snow, and the turbo gives it some serious acceleration. I highly recommend it!
Are you having problems with your Saab 9-3?
Raul Schaefer 2025-05-06
Vehicle year: 2002
The engine of my car failed due to the well-known 'Saab oil sludge problem' that affected many 9-3's and 9-5's from that era. Saab acknowledged that the oil sludge accumulation was caused by an engine defect, not consumer negligence, and extended coverage to '99-'03 9-3's and 9-5's. However, it is important to note that eligibility for coverage requires proof of oil change receipts for the entire life of the car. Unfortunately, this means that those who purchased their car used are not eligible for coverage. Nevertheless, there are options available such as investing in a new engine or selling the car for parts.
Oswald Denesik 2025-04-27
Vehicle year: 1999
Great car! It's good on gas and perfect for young teens. Although, I traded it in for a Hummer H2 and I regret it now.
Baylee Bailey 2025-04-25
Vehicle year: 2003
Hi there! I recently bought this car with 89,xxx miles on it and I must say, it's a solid car that is really fun to drive! Although it needed a few cosmetic items and new tires, I got it for a great value of $4400. The AC is so cold that I had to turn it down on a 90+ degree day! The only downside is that the Sweeds didn't think to include cup holders. I did have some trouble with the DIC and fluid for the convertible top, but I found lots of helpful videos on YouTube and parts on eBay to fix it. The car is quick and responsive, but it does throw trouble codes every day. However, I found that buying a scanner when you buy a Saab is a great solution. Most of the codes are harmless warnings and can be fixed without spending a lot of money. The DIC (coil pack) is the common failure for most codes, but a new one only costs $500.
Braeden Ebert 2025-04-12
Vehicle year: 2001
If you're considering purchasing a 9-3 Hatchback, I would advise against it. I had a difficult time working on the vehicle myself due to the poor planning of the engine compartment, and the parts were both hard to find and expensive. Additionally, finding a mechanic who is willing to work on it can be a challenge. Despite taking good care of the car, I have experienced nothing but problems for the past year and a half. While there are some satisfied customers, I wanted to share my negative experience with this car. It's unfortunate that Saab is no longer in business.
Eriberto Hirthe 2025-04-07
Vehicle year: 2004
It's a beautiful car that can be really fun to drive, but unfortunately, it seems like there are often issues with it. The sunroof, radio, and CD player only work sporadically, and the locks and brakes are also problematic. I've had to replace the master cylinder twice in just a year and a half, and even had to pay $700 to fix the stability control. I've also had to replace a wheel bearing. All of this has happened in less than two years of owning the car. Although I still have payments to make on it, I'm considering trading it in. Unfortunately, my experience with this Saab has been quite frustrating. SAAB - Something's Almost Always Broken.