Saab 9-3 2003 problems
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Common Saab 9-3 2003 problems
The Saab 9-3, particularly the 2003 model, has several common problems that owners have reported.
One of the most frequently mentioned issues is related to the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and traction control, which are crucial safety features in the vehicle. The ABS system prevents wheel lockup during hard braking situations, while the traction control helps keep the vehicle's wheels engaged, especially when it starts to lose control. Both components share the same module in your Saab 9-3. Many owners have reported persistent ABS and traction control light problems, mainly in second-generation Saab 9-3s from 2002 to 2011, excluding the 2009 model year.
Another common problem is related to the bulkhead, which can cause a clicking noise during full lock steering movements and result in vague and slightly unresponsive steering. This issue is caused by a mounting system that connects the bulkhead to the steering rack. If you hear a clicking noise or experience vague steering, it's best to avoid the vehicle.
Cooler oil leaks are also a well-known issue in the Saab 9-3. These leaks can occur between the lubrication and cooling systems due to the chain. This issue is one of the more expensive on the list to fix and should make you think twice about purchasing a vehicle with this problem.
The Saab 9-3 convertible's hood is another area where issues may arise. When considering a convertible, it's essential to ensure the hood is in good working order, with no rips or damage. Raise and lower it a couple of times to ensure it's functioning properly.
Interior heating is another common problem, but it's not related to deep faults within the air conditioning unit. Instead, the issue lies with the dial controls and knobs, which are known to easily crack off and split. Fortunately, these parts cost less than £10 each to repair, so don't let heating control issues deter you from purchasing a Saab 9-3.
Oil sludge is a potential problem for petrol-powered 9-3s, especially if the previous owner has not kept up with regular services or used thicker oil than recommended. Check the service history to ensure the owner has been diligent about maintenance. If not, you could face costly problems with the engine.
Lastly, strut mounts can cause grinding noises and squeaks, particularly when going around corners. These issues are typically caused by the mounts and bearings at the top of the McPherson struts in the suspension system
What is the most common problem with the Saab 9-3?
Many owners have complained about engine failure caused by a faulty direct ignition cassette (DIC). Saab vehicles primarily use a DIC system, with ignition coils that directly go on top of the spark plugs. If there's a problem with the DIC, the engine may crank but not start.
What is the most reliable engine in the Saab 9-3?
Saab 9-3 Saloon engines, drive and performance
Eight-valve single-turbo models (120hp TiD) are generally considered the most reliable, with the 130, 160 and 180hp later twin-turbo 16-valve variants the next choice.
What year of Saab is the most reliable?
The Saab 900 (1994-1998) is a mid-size luxury car produced by the Swedish automaker Saab. It is the fourth generation of the Saab 900 series. Known for its Scandinavian design, innovative features, and solid build quality, the Saab 900 (1994-1998) is considered one of the most reliable Saabs in its lineup.
What is the life expectancy of a 2005 Saab 9-3?
What is Saab 9-3 lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Saab 9-3 is 200,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
Saab 9-3 2003 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Saab 9-3 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Saab 9-3 2003 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints Saab 9-3 2003
The NHTSA has received 214 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Saab 9-3 2003. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Saab 9-3 2003 vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-20
- VIN: YS3DF75K337
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING MY 2003 SAAB 9-3 SE CONVERTIBLE TO THE NEARBY PUBLIX SUPERMARKET. THE CAR HAS NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT OR HIT. I PARKED IT IN THE LOT WITH THE TOP DOWN AND WENT INTO THE STORE FOR APPROXIMATELY 10 MINUTES. IT WAS A WARM DRY DAY IN FLORIDA ABOUT 85 DEGREES. I CAME OUT AND PUT THE KEY IN THE IGNITION AND TURNED IT TO START THE CAR, AND THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG EXPLODED FOR NO KNOWN REASON. I CALLED GM, THEY TOOK THE CAR TO A GM FACILITY AND INSPECTED IT, AND THEN CAME BACK A WEEK LATER AND SAID THE UNEXPLAINED DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG WAS NOT A MANUFACTURERS DEFECT AND THEY WOULD NOT REPAIR IT. I FIND THAT DIFFICULT TO BELIEVE. THE AIRBAG SHOULD NOT DEPLOY ARBITRARILY WHEN THE IGNITION KEY IS TURNED.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-20
- VIN: YS3FB49S631
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WITH THE KEY FOB IN THE IGNITION, THE POWER STEERING WHEEL LOCK MALFUNCTION WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT MANUALLY TURNED THE IGNITION KEY TO THE LEFT TO RIGHT IN ORDER TO HAVE THE VEHICLE STARTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO FLIKKEMA SAAB (2424 176TH ST, LANSING, IL 60438 (708) 474-19330) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE COLUMN INTEGRATED MODULE (CIM) NEEDED TO BE REPROGRAMMED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-17
- VIN: YS3FD49Y131
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SAAB 9-3. WHEN THE VEHICLE DECELERATED, IT SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING AT WILL. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE DECELERATED WHEN DRIVING UP A HILL. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-15
- VIN: YS3FD49Y631
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ECU IN CAR BECOMES COMPLETELY FRIED BECAUSE OF THE LOCATION IT IS MOUNTED FROM THE FACTORY BECAUSE OF HEAT SOAK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-03
- VIN: YS3DF75K827
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I AM RECEIVING AN ONSTAR NOT AVAILABLE ERROR - THERE WAS A RECALL 08089-B PART # 10027804 - I WANT MY ONSTAR DISABLED. WHO DO I CONTACT?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. DRIVER'S SEAT AIRBAG DEPLOYED WHILE WAITING AT A RED LIGHT THIS MORNING.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-01
- VIN: YS3FD49Y331
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2003 SAAB. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIRBAG INFLATOR SAFETY RECALL. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME COMPLETING THE RECALL REPAIR. *JS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YS3FD49Y531
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING AT ABOUT 15 - 20 MPH TRYING TO ENTER HWY I-75. UPON ROUTINE BRAKING,THE AIRBAG DEPLOYED, CAUSING AN ACCIDENT.AFTER I HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME,THE SECOND AIRBAG DEPLOYED. I AM HURT. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED TOTALLED BECAUSE THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, AND TAKEN AWAY.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-01
- VIN: YS3FD49Y961
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL I WAS NOTIFIED BY SAAB IN MARCH 2016 THAT I HAVE TAKATA AIRBAGS INSTALLED AND ARE SUBJECT TO RECALL. IT IS NOW SIX (6) MONTHS SINCE THE NOTIFICATION. I HAVE HAD NO FURTHER COMMUNICATION FROM SAAB. I FEEL THAT THE RECALL SHOULD TAKE PLACE IMMEDIATELY BEFORE I GET KILLED FROM THE AIRBAG INFLATING. SIX MONTHS SHOULD BE MORE THAN ADEQUATE TO RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. I ASK THAT SAAB BE COMPELLED TO IMMEDIATELY MAKE THE NECESSARY REPAIRS!
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-22
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: HIT CONCRETE WALL
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-01
- VIN: YS3DF78KX37
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL I DO NOT HAVE A DATE FOR OR MY SAAB AIR BAG RECALL. THIS CLEARLY SENDS A MESSAGE ABOUT GM. "DON'T BUY GM, AND FROM THOSE COMPANIES WHICH PLACE PEOPLE AT RISK OF AIR BAG FAILURE"
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-15
- VIN: YS3DF78K337
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART FOR THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-22
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: COIL SPRING BROK CAUSED TIRE TO COME OFF TURNDED SIDEWAYS UNDER FIREWALL CAUSING US TO CRASH INTO CONCRETE BARRIER
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-03
- VIN: YS3FB45S631
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-05
- VIN: YS3DF78KX37
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL...I AM ADVISED THAT THERE IS RISK OF INJURY/DEATH DUE TO DEPLOYMENT OF AIR BAGS. ASKING FOR REPAIR ADVISED TODAY 4/4/2016 BY (GENERAL MOTORS) THEY ARE NOT NOW DOING/CANNOT DO SAME. UNACCEPTABLE SAFETY.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-22
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YS3DF78K337
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 SAAB 9-3. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE STEERING LOST POWER. THE DRIVER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE WALL. THE DRIVER SIDE TIRE BECAME STUCK UNDER THE DRIVER SEAT WITHOUT WARNING. THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. BOTH THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER RECEIVED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE POLICE WAS AT THE SCENE, BUT DID NOT FILE A REPORT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOW YARD. THE INSURANCE COMPANY TOTALED THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. ONE DAY AFTER THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 71,810.
STRUCTURE,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-07
- VIN: YS3FD49Y031
- Components: STRUCTURE,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE JERKED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND STALLED. THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY. IN ADDITION, IT TOOK MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS TO OPEN THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENTLY MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SPARK PLUGS HAD FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 87,171.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-04
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SAAB 9-3. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, SMOKE EMITTED UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. THE VEHICLE WAS MANEUVERED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT SMOKE EMITTED FROM THE BATTERY COMPARTMENT. THERE WERE NO FLAMES VISIBLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CONTRIBUTED TO THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 158,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-15
- VIN: YS3DF78K537
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SAAB 9-3. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING AND WAS ABLE TO BE RESTARTED. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS NOT DIAGNOSED; HOWEVER, THE MECHANIC REPLACED THE DIC AND THE CRANKSHAFT SENSOR. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED AND THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE MECHANIC AND THE DIC WAS REPLACED. THE FAILURE PERSISTED AND IT TOOK SEVERAL ATTEMPTS TO START THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE MIRRORED NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: EA04008 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,000. UPDATED 02/23/16*LJ *CN
POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-05
- VIN: YS3FD49Y431
- Components: POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE AND DECELERATED INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL ODOR AND SMOKE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND DISCOVERED THAT OIL WAS LEAKING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VALVE COVER GASKET NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 184,000. ...UPDATED 01/07/16 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE WHEN ENTERING TRAFFIC FROM THE DRIVEWAY, IT MOVES OUT OF GEAR, AND THE VEHICLE HAD AN ELECTRICAL GLITCH THAT CAUSED THE HEADLIGHTS TO GO OUT OFTEN NEEDING TO BE REPLACED. *JS
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-08
- VIN: YS3FB79Y986
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SAAB 9-3. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE STEERING WHEEL LOCK WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE DOORS OF THE VEHICLE FAILED TO LOCK. ON ANOTHER OCCASION, THE IGNITION KEY FAILED TO MOVE INTO THE ON POSITION. A TOW TRUCK OPERATOR STATED THAT THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE MOVED BECAUSE THE WHEELS WERE LOCKED. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-03
- VIN: YS3FB49S031
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY REFUSED TO TURN TO THE ON POSITION AND A STEERING WHEEL LOCK MALFUNCTION MESSAGE APPEARED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-04
- VIN: YS3DF78K637
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: [XXX] BOUGHT JUST IN MAY. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-21
- VIN: YS3FB45S531
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DRIVING STEADY PACE, SID FADES OUT, RADIO SHUTS OFF, GAUGES TURN OFF, AND ENGINE SHUT OFF. PULLED OVER AND WHITE SMOKE CAME OUT FROM ENGINE BAY. IT WAS FROM THE SOLENOID ON THE STARTER. I GOT A NEW STARTER AND THE BATTERY WAS DEAD. I THEN BOUGHT A NEW BATTERY AND THE SAME ISSUE OCCURRED. I HAD TO CHARGE THE BATTERY UP TO 100% TO GET THE CAR STARTED. THE ALTERNATOR WAS FINE SO MY BELIEF IS THERE IS AN OPEN CIRCUIT SOMEWHERE IN THE CAR. JUST RECENTLY THE SAME SITUATION HAPPENED AGAIN, STARTER MOTOR BURNED UP AND BATTERY DRAINED. *TR
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-30
- VIN: YS3DF78K937
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: AS I WAS DRIVING IN THE MIDDLE LANE OF THE 3 NORTHBOUND LANES OF U.S. 23, THE ENGINE SUDDENLY STALLED. I WAS GOING ABOUT 62 MPH. I ACTIVATED MY EMERGENCY FLASHERS, SHIFTED THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION TO NEUTRAL, AND SHUT OFF THE IGNITION KEY. I THEN TURNED THE IGNITION KEY TO RESTART THE ENGINE AND IT RESTARTED. THIS IS ABOUT THE 5TH TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED IN THE PAST 5 MONTHS. THIS VEHICLE SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN GMS IGNITION RECALL!!! *TR
Saab 9-3 2003 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the Saab 9-3 2003.
- Manufacturer: TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.
- Consequence: A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.
- Remedy: TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL PUMP RETAINING TABS HOLDING THE FUEL LINES WERE DAMAGED DURING PRODUCTION.
- Consequence: OVER TIME, THIS COULD CAUSE THE FUEL LINES TO LOOSEN FROM THE PUMP RESULTING IN FUEL LEAKAGE. IF AN IGNITION SOURCE WERE PRESENT, THE FUEL MAY IGNITE RESULTING IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL DEVELOP A SECURING BRACKET THAT WILL SECURE THE FUEL LINES TO THE FUEL PUMP EVEN IF THE PLASTIC RETAINING TABS SHOULD BREAK. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 13, 2007. THIS IS AN EXPANSION OF PREVIOUS RECALL CAMPAIGNS - SEE 04V557 AND 06V126. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT SEDAN AND CONVERTIBLE PASSENGER VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH A VACUUM PIPE CHECK VALVE FOR THE BRAKE BOOSTER THAT MAY FAIL FROM EXPOSURE TO ELEVATED TEMPERATURES. THIS COULD RESULT IN SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER BRAKE ASSIST, USUALLY WITH LITTLE OR NO WARNING.
- Consequence: IF THIS CONDITION WERE TO OCCUR WHEN MINIMUM STOPPING DISTANCE IS REQUIRED, A CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW REDESIGNED CHECK VALVE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 17, 2006. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE ENGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM SOFTWARE MAY CAUSE ENGINE HESITATION OR STALLING.
- Consequence: IF THE VEHICLE STALLS AS A RESULT OF THIS CONDITION, IT CAN BE RESTARTED IMMEDIATELY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL UPDATE THE ENGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
- Summary: SOME SPORT SEDANS WERE BUILT WITH SEAT BELT RETRACTORS THAT WERE DAMAGED DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS. IF DAMAGED, OVER TIME, THE AUTOMATIC TENSIONING SYSTEM (ATS) CABLE IN THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR COULD BREAK CAUSING THE BELT WEBBING TO NOT RETRACT.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, A FRONT SEAT OCCUPANT MAY RECEIVE MORE SEVERE INJURIES.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR ASSEMBLIES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 24, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.
Negative Saab 9-3 2003 car reviews
Positive Saab 9-3 2003 car reviews
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I've had the car for a week and I'm happy with my choice. The styling, power, and features are great. According to JD's latest survey, the electronics are of high quality. However, the car was delivered with a few bugs that I need to have fixed, such as the radio on/off button sticking and the 'nxt' button on the steering wheel not working well. Overall, I think the new design is strong and the car is positioned to be a legitimate player in the sport/premium mid-size segment.
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I consider myself very fortunate to have acquired one of the few Vectors available in the Washington DC area. After test driving several competing models such as Audi, 04 Maxima, and G35, I knew that this was the car for me. The car's handling, performance, acceleration, and design are all exceptional. I receive many compliments on my car and it always turns heads. The interior is well-designed, the seats are incredibly comfortable, and all the gauges are easy to read. The driver settings for heat, air, etc. are also very convenient, and the xenons are a must-have feature! I highly recommend test driving one, and I guarantee you'll be sold! Even BMW owners are envious of my car!
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This car is perfect for local driving and even for a fun drive. However, it may not be the most comfortable option for long hauls due to the lack of a center armrest.
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Your 2003 9.3 Vector is a great car! It's impressive how well it drives and looks, especially considering it's 14 years old. You're lucky to have purchased it from a friend who was the original owner and had most of their service records. It's also great to hear that your 16-year-old can easily change the oil and filter. In the next month, you plan to do the air and cabin filter and plugs, which is fantastic. It's amazing that your car has 147,500 miles on the odometer and still runs like a top. You've had no problems after a little over 3,000 miles, which is a testament to how well-maintained it is. Well done!
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Electrical quirks aside, this car is pretty amazing. I don't think there is a better value for the money. The worst mpg I have gotten over the past 6 months is 32.5, and the best was 36.7. The handling is great, and the leather looks new. The engine is a peach. In 5 years, when I'm done with this one, I fully intend to get the 2008 9-3.
Additional sources
More sources of information about Saab 9-3 2003 problems:
Saab 9-3 Problems and Complaints - 37 Issues
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Are you having problems with your Saab 9-3 2003?
Ernest Durgan 2024-11-25
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
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!
Karson Terry 2024-09-07
In 14 months, my car needed major repairs 18 times! It was a frustrating experience, but I was able to get Saab to honor the lemon law eventually. Although I have always loved Saab, I don't think I will be owning one again after this ordeal.
Guy Dare 2024-08-02
I've had to take my vehicle to the shop 15 times in just 3 years. Unfortunately, the interior choices were not the best, as the rubber coating on the control panels and door handles tends to peel off. Additionally, I only get 20 mpg due to the turbo kicking in at every stop light. The brakes had to be replaced at 21k and both headlight assemblies malfunctioned and had to be replaced at 20k miles. The gas gauge is also inaccurate. It seems that GM used too many inexpensive parts to improve margins on the Saabs, which negatively affected the consumer and dealer network. It would be great if quality parts were used to make a good car.
Halle Goodwin 2024-07-08
The engine has performed very well. However, there have been some issues with the electronics and interior design. The Gas Cap design often triggers the Engine Check light, and the Traction control can fail on and off again. Additionally, the drivers window came off track, and the side mirror adjustments needed replacement. There have also been some water leak issues from the Pollen filter design and door leaks due to poor rubber seal and interior door seal. It goes on, but this should be enough. Unfortunately, the car noise is non-stop, with something always rattling.