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: 2008
Despite some criticisms in the Edmunds model review, this car is a fantastic performer that is incredibly satisfying to drive. It's amazing how quickly you can reach 70 without pushing the accelerator very far. The ride on the highway is great, making this car a cruiser! I've been getting double takes in this car that I'd never get in most of the other non-descript cookie-cutter designs out there. The Sportcombi is very versatile without the typical station wagon look (I think it looks better than the sedan). With the incentives currently available on the '08 model, this car should definitely be on your shortlist.
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Vehicle year: 2006
We drove this car from the Factory to our home near Frankfurt the next day. The car feels completely at home while cruising at the 133mph gov. Although some magazines criticize Saab for a couple of reasons that stem from the FWD, it is still great for a FWD. The shifter is fine until you are speed shifting when it becomes a little slow. However, during spirited driving, you'd never know it. Only when one thrashes the car through a small road course, like the magazines do, would one see the difference. The interior is much 'nicer' than the BMW, and the rear has more room than the BMW5dr. Overall, it's a great car to drive and enjoy.
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Vehicle year: 2000
This car is perfect for those who love performance driving, including high-speed autobahn-style trips, but also want to ensure their passengers are comfortable during road trips. With spacious interior and more trunk space than BMW, this car is a great choice. While the engine is extremely powerful, it may not be the best choice for those looking for a stoplight racer - a Mustang may be more suitable. However, if you're looking for a car that can handle tight curves and make highway miles a blast, this is the car for you!
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Vehicle year: 2002
I've owned about 4 Saab 9-3s as I move a lot and sell my car before every move. I always buy these because they are one hundred percent reliable and fast. Recently, I drove my 2002 9-3 from WA to ID and back, and I got 35mpg on the highway for real, no joke! So, I think the average fuel economy should be changed on here. When driving in the city and using the turbo all day, you only get 25 mpg (lowest I've seen). Overall, I give this car a 9 out of 10. The only brand I like better than Saab is Lexus!
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Vehicle year: 1999
Hi there! I'm so glad to hear that you found the perfect car for your bicycle races! It sounds like you made a great choice with this car - it's fast, fuel-efficient, comfortable, and has plenty of space for your bikes. What's even better is that it's been super reliable for you, with only a few minor fixes needed over the years. It's always great to hear about a car that can stand the test of time! And it's pretty funny that BMW drivers try to race your wife in it - they must not know what they're up against with that turbo! :)
Are you having problems with your Saab 9-3?
Hayley Nader 2025-01-07
Vehicle year: 2002
The '02 Saab 9-3 that I purchased had a few issues right after I drove it off the lot. However, I was able to address each problem as it came up, including fixing the front right wheel bearing, replacing the right headlight twice, repairing the heating coil, and restoring the air conditioning. Although the car stopped on the expressway three months later due to a faulty fuel pump, I was able to get it fixed and it has been running smoothly since. I did have to replace a few parts, such as the starter, left wheel bearing, control arm & ball joints on drivers side, CV Shaft, Spring Coil Sensor for Check Engine light, Brake Pads & Rotors, but I was able to handle each issue with confidence. Although there is still a starting issue that no one has been able to diagnose, I remain optimistic that it will be resolved soon.
Winston Walter 2025-01-05
Vehicle year: 2006
10K miles summary: The car has had a few issues, including a broken coolant reservoir, replaced ABS pump, replaced air bypass valve, and updated window control software. We also had the HID leveling system replaced. Unfortunately, we've had to spend quite a bit of time at the dealership, but the courtesy cars have been a lifesaver. We've put more miles on them than on our own 9-3!
Ernest Durgan 2024-11-25
Vehicle year: 2003
I purchased this vehicle with 95k miles on it. It was a one owner vehicle that was dealer serviced, so I thought it would be a good buy. I have had a Saab in the past ('92 900 turbo) which was a great vehicle. Unfortunately, this '03 model did not live up to my expectations. On the third day, the engine light came on due to some emissions issue. Even the grill fell out twice while driving down the road. There have been other issues too. Currently, the water pump is out. I got tired of the car and it has been sitting for a year now. I hope that Saab will return to its former glory now that GM is out of the picture.
Kaden Thiel 2024-11-19
Vehicle year: 2003
In short, I would recommend avoiding Saab. Unfortunately, my personal experience with my Saab has not been great. It has been involved in six separate recalls, needed a new transmission due to mechanical failure (which took two weeks to fix), and has lost two batteries, requiring a tow. Additionally, I had no idea what 'turbo-lag' was until I tried to pull out into traffic with this car. While the service teams have been less than stellar, I must say that my Saab only has 24K miles on it!
Paxton VonRueden 2024-11-14
Vehicle year: 2006
Although the car is fun to drive, it has unfortunately been plagued with numerous issues such as rattling noises throughout the interior and persistent electrical problems with the radio, windows, sunroof, and blinkers. As a result, I regret purchasing this car and cannot recommend it. It is important to note that while all new cars may ride nicely at the beginning, not all are able to maintain that level of quality.