2005 Saab 9-3 problems
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Common 2005 Saab 9-3 problems
The Saab 9-3, particularly the 2005 model, is known for several common problems that owners have reported. One of the most significant issues is related to the anti-lock brake system (ABS) and traction control. These safety features are crucial for maintaining control during hard braking and slippery road conditions. However, many second-generation Saab 9-3s, including the 2005 model, have experienced persistent problems with the ABS and traction control lights. The primary cause of these issues is often corroded wire harness connectors in the front wheel sensors, which can prevent the traction control module from accurately detecting wheel speed. If left unaddressed, ABS and traction control failure can lead to a complete loss of control on slippery or uneven roads, necessitating replacement of both parts to restore the vehicle's braking system.
Another common problem with the Saab 9-3, particularly the 2005 model, is related to the bulkhead. When out on the road, performing full lock steering movements can reveal clicking noises, which may indicate a problem with the bulkhead. 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 and slightly unresponsive steering, it's advisable to avoid the vehicle, as these symptoms could indicate a faulty bulkhead.
Cooler oil leaks are another well-known issue with the Saab 9-3. These leaks can occur between the lubrication and cooling systems due to the chain, leading to oil contamination in the coolant. This problem is one of the more expensive ones to fix and should be a significant consideration when purchasing a used Saab 9-3.
The Saab 9-3 convertible is a popular choice, but potential buyers should ensure that the hood is in good working order. Raising and lowering the hood a few times during the test drive can help reveal any issues. Additionally, scouring the hood for rips and damage is essential to ensure the vehicle is in good condition.
Interior heating is another common problem with the Saab 9-3, although it's not typically related to deep faults within the air conditioning unit. Instead, structural problems with the dial controls and knobs can cause these issues. The knobs and dials are known to easily crack off and split, but fortunately, they cost less than £10 each to repair. Therefore, potential buyers should not let heating control issues deter them from purchasing a Saab 9-3.
Oil sludge is a potential problem for petrol-powered Saab 9-3s, particularly if the previous owner has not maintained regular services or used thicker oil than recommended. Checking the service history is crucial to ensure that the owner has been diligent in maintaining the vehicle. If not, costly problems with the engine may arise.
Lastly, strut mounts are a known issue with the Saab 9-3, particularly the second-generation models
. Grinding noises and squeaks, especially during cornering, can indicate problems with the mounts and bearings at the top of the McPherson struts in the suspension system. Regularly changing the oil and using SAE 0w-40 oils can help prevent these issues.
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 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.
Is A Saab 9-3 A Good car?
Saab 9.3 Vector Sport TiD. No longer in production does not impact the reliability and value for money which a later model Saab provides. It delivers a high level of comfort, reliability and performance for a car that is now nearly eight years old.
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.
2005 Saab 9-3 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:
- Suspension problems
- Seat belts problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2005 Saab 9-3 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2005 Saab 9-3
The NHTSA has received 95 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Saab 9-3. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2005 Saab 9-3 vehicles.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-15
- 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.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-07
- VIN: YS3FD79Y856
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: IT HAPPENED TO ME TWICE.. WHILE DRIVING THE GAS GAUGE WILL DROP TO EMPTY AND WHEN PRESSING ON THE GAS IL JUST REV THERE BE A CUT OFF DUE TO THE FUEL LEVEL SENSOR IN WHICH IT'S A COMMON IN ALL SAABS I DON'T KNOW WHY THIS ISSUE HASN'T BECOME A RECALL. IT'S DANGEROUS THE CUT OFF IS AROUND 2-3 SECONDS. I ALMOST CAUSE AN ACCIDENT DUE TO THE LOST OF POWER. I WAS ENTERING THE FREE WAY AND AN 18 WHEELER HAD TO SWITCH LANES AND PASSED I WAS GOING AROUND 45 MPH MERGING . THE SECOND TIME I WAS GOING 25 MPH AND IT FELT LIKE THE ENGINE SHUT OF AND GATHER SPEED. THERE IS A RECALL FOR THE FUEL PUMP AND MY VEHICLE HAS THE SAME SYMPTOMS OTHERS HAVE DESCRIBE. IT FEELS LIKE THE CAR HAS ISSUES BUT THEIR NOT PARTS TO DIFFICULT TO CHANGE BUT IF YOU TAKE THE CAR TO A MECHANIC THEYL CHARGE YOU RIDICULOUS FOR LABOR ALMOST $1200 JUST IN CHANGING THE DRIVE BELT?
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-06
- VIN: YS3FB45S151
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALTORNATOR KEEP MALFUNCTIONING HAPPEND MULTIPLE TIME
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-02
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YS3FB49S351
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE TRYING TO START THE VEHICLE, HE HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE. THE CONTACT STATED HE SAW SMOKE COMING THE HOOD. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED HE EXITED THE VEHICLE AND WAS INFORMED FIRE WAS COMING FROM A FUEL LEAK ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE. THE CONTACT STATED A BYSTANDER CAME WITH A FIRE EXTINGUISHER AND EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WERE NO INJURIES OR MEDICAL ATTENTION NEEDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE CONTACT CALLED THE LOCAL DEALER FLIKKEMA SAAB LOCATED AT 2424 176TH ST, LANSING, IL 60438, (708) 474-1933, AND WERE MADE AWARE OF FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AS OF YET. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 74,000. *DT *JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-16
- VIN: YS3FB45S551
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: NHTSA 14V318000 WAS A RECALL FOR SEAT BELTS THAT FAILS TO RETRACT. WHEN I GET INTO MY CAR AND PULL IT OUT TO FASTEN IT OFTEN REMAINS SLACK. THAT EVENT CAUSED ME TO DO RESEARCH AND FIND THE RECALL. BUT IT DID NOT EXTEND TO MY CAR WHICH HAS THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM. IT APPEARS TO ME THAT THE RECALL WAS TOO NARROW.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-19
- VIN: YS3FD49YX51
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: MY CAR WON'T START AND NO MECHANIC CAN FIGURE OUT EXACTLY WHY DUE TO THERE NOT BEING ANY SAAB DEALERS NEAR THE AREA I'M STUCK IN... I HAVE BEEN LIVING OUT OF MY CAR FOR 3 MONTHS CUZ I DON'T WANT ANYONE TO STEAL MY CAR
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-12
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 14V318000 (SEAT BELTS) AND 16V063000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIRS WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. WEST COUNTY VOLVO (14410 MANCHESTER RD, MANCHESTER, MO) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-01
- VIN: YS3FD79Y956
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER'S SEAT-BELT HAS STOPPED RETRACTING. THE ITEM HAS A RECALL BUT PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-02
- VIN: YS3FH75Y556
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: POWER SEAT TRACKS ON BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER SLIDE BACK AND FORTH SUCH THAT WHEN STOPPING QUICKLY THE SEAT SLIDES FORWARD ABOUT AN INCH. IT'S A KNOWN PROBLEM ON SAABS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-29
- VIN: YS3FH75Y556
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: HORN DOES NOT BLOW, PLEASE WAIT LIGHT STAYS ON. AND BURNS THE BATTERY OUT OVER A DAY OR SO WHILE CAR IS STATIONARY HAVE TO RECHARGE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-11
- VIN: YS3FD49Y861
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS) FOR THE DRIVER FRONTAL AIR BAG INFLATOR. THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE VEHICLE HAD AN APPOINTMENT AFTER RECEIVING THE LETTER SIX WEEKS LATER TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER (SCHUMACHER BUICK GMC OF WEST PALM BEACH LOCATED ON 3031 OKEEBHOBEE BLVD WEST PALM BEACH, FL, 33409). ONCE THE CONTACT ARRIVED FOR THE APPOINTMENT, SHE WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE SERVICED BECAUSE THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE SAAB MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AT 1-800-955-9007, BUT THE PHONE DISCONNECTED. THE CONTACT ALSO INFORMED GENERAL MOTORS AT 1-800-462-8782 WHO STATED THAT NOTHING COULD BE DONE BECAUSE THEY WERE NO LONGER AFFILIATED WITH SAAB AND OFFERED NO ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-15
- VIN: WBAWL135X8P
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FREQUENTLY THE CAR STALLS SUDDENLY IN TRAFFIC, LOOSES POWER I CAN'T ACCELERATE THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS POTENTIAL TO GET HIT. THE OTHER PROBLEM IS THE CAR VIBRATES AND ALL OF SUDDEN A LOT OF SMOKE COMES OUT FROM BACK AND RICH GASOLINE SMELL COMES AND THE SPEED TURNS TO 0. I TURN IT OFF FOR FIVE MINUTES AND RESTART SOMETIMES IT STARTS OK SOMETIMES IT VIBRATES AGAIN. THIS HAPPENS VERY FREQUENTLY
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-03
- VIN: YS3FD49Y351
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 SAAB 9-3. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RETRACT WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V318000 (SEAT BELTS). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 128,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-01
- VIN: YS3FB49Y181
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL WHY AREN'T PARTS AVAILABLE TO FIX THIS PROBLEM. HOW LONG CAN I EXPECT TO WAIT FOR A SOLUTION TO THIS SERIOUS PROBLEM? WHO IS RESPONSIBLE IF SOMEONE IS INJURED AS A RESULT OF THIS RECALL. WHY ISN'T MORE BEING DONE ABOUT IT. WHY IS THIS COMPANY STILL ALLOWED TO BE IN BUSINESS?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-27
- VIN: YS3FD49Y551
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: PER GM, THE 2005 SAAB 9-3 WAS DELETED FROM THE TAKATA AIRBAG RECALL. I WANT THE DEFECTIVE TAKATA AIRBAG SERIAL NUMBERS TO ENSURE MY SAAB IS SAFE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-27
- VIN: YS3FD49Y551
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHAT ARE THE SERIAL NUMBERS FOR THE TAKATA RECALL AIRBAGS?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-15
- VIN: YS3FB49S651
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V63000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO PERFORM THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. 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. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-29
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART WAS UNAVAILABLE TO PERFORM THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-28
- VIN: 037449
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I RECEIVED A SAFETY RECALL FROM SAAB ABOUT THE POSSIBILITY OF THE INFLATOR OF THE AIRBAG RUPTURING AND METAL FRAGMENTS COULD PASS THROUGH THE CUSHION. THEY DO NOT CURRENTLY HAVE A SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM. WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT THIS? HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO WAIT TIL IT IS FIXED OR SOMETHING HAPPENS? CAN THEY TAKE AS MUCH TIME AS THEY NEED TO FIX THE CAR WITHOUT HAVING ANY RESPONSIBILITIES? ANY INFORMATION WILL HELP. THANK YOU. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-02
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YS3FD49Y451
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL DRIVER IN FRONT WAS IN MOTION AND CAME TO AN ABRUPT STOP AT THE YELLOW SIGNAL LIGHT. I WAS NOT ABLE TO STOP IN TIME. THERE WAS A DIRECT IMPACT FRONT END COLLISION TO MY CAR. THE FORCE OF COLLISION ACTIVATED MY PASSENGER AIRBAG TO INFLATE, BUT MY DRIVER'S AIRBAG DID NOT...UPDATED 05/09/16 *BF *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-04
- VIN: YS3FB45S451
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL CANT TRUST MY CAR IF I HAVE TAKATA AIRBAGS
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-01
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PASSENGER STRUT WAS BENT. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE STRUT WAS REPLACED BUT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE FAILURE WOULD RECUR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STRUTS NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-03
- VIN: YS3FB49S051
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON THE STREET AT 30 MPH I HEAR A BANG! I START TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE STEERING WHEEL I IMMEDIATELY PUT MY HAZARD LIGHTS ON AND PULLED OVER SAFELY ONCE I GAINED CONTROL WHEN I GET OUT THE CAR TO INSPECT IT MY PASSENGERS SIDE FRONT SPRING IS BROKEN IN TWO AND MY PASSENGER SIDE TIRE IS BLOWN. I COULD HAVE BEEN VERY BADLY INJURED OR KILLED! SAAB YOU NEED TO DO A RECALL THIS IS LIFE THREATENING!
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-01
- VIN: YS3FB49S351
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MUCH LIKE NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 14V318000 (GM RECALL NUMBER 14222), THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT DOES NOT RETRACT. THIS OCCURS EVERY TIME THE BELT IS PULLED OUT. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE BELT WOULD NOT BE CLOSE ENOUGH TO THE DRIVER TO RETRACT, SINCE IT IS TOO LOOSE.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-28
- VIN: YS3FH79Y956
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: RECALL 14222/15027. RECEIVED SAFETY RECALL NOTICE TO REPLACE DRIVER'S SIDE SEATBELT MECHANISM. UPON MAKING SERVICE APPOINTMENT WITH LOCAL GM DEALER THEY STATED THEY DO NOT HAVE A TECHNICIAN TO DO IT. I TRIED CALLING THE 800 NUMBER ON THE RECALL NOTICE AND GOT A RECORDING THAT THE NUMBER WAS NO LONGER IN SERVICE. HOW CAN I FIND OUT WHO CAN PERFORM THIS RECALL SERVICE?
2005 Saab 9-3 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2005 Saab 9-3.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2011 Saab 9-3 Convertible vehicles manufactured July 30, 2003, to February 15, 2011. In the affected vehicles, the driver's side front seat belt retractor may break, causing the seat belt webbing not to retract.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, a seat belt that has not retracted may not properly restrain the seat occupant, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's seat belt retractor, free of charge. The recall began on October 6, 2015. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007. GM's number for this recall is 14222. Note: Special Coverage 10086 will replace the passenger side seat belt retractor if it fails, free of charge, for the life of the vehicle.
- 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: 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.
Negative 2005 Saab 9-3 car reviews
Positive 2005 Saab 9-3 car reviews
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I love driving my 9-3 Arc! It handles the secondary, curving roads I drive on daily with ease. (and I like to drive it fast...) It averages 26 MPG on my rural roads. I've had the car for almost a year and haven't had any problems with it. It was our second European Delivery purchase and we'll certainly purchase future cars in the same manner.
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I've had my '05 9-3 for a year now and it's been great! The only issue I had was with the radio, but it was quickly and easily fixed under warranty. While it may not be a Bimmer 330 or an A4 Quattro, it's still a fantastic car for the price. In fact, I think the Saab offers the best overall value in the entry-level luxury sport sedan class. The manual version is especially fun to drive and the turbo gives it a nice boost. The handling is tight and the braking is exceptional. While there are a few cheesy design features, the build quality is decent. The only downside is the stereo, which could be better. Overall, I highly recommend this car!
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I can tell you put a lot of thought into your purchase! The 2005 incentive was a great push towards the Saab, and it sounds like it was a fantastic choice. From what you've said, it seems like you're really enjoying the car. The 5-speed manual sounds like a great option if you're a fan of stick shift. The turbo really gives it some power! The interior features, like the input jack for iPods, are a great touch. Overall, it sounds like you made a great choice and I would definitely recommend it to others.
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The car handles well and we were able to average 32 mpg with a lot of highway driving. However, we did experience a few issues such as the headlight burning out 3 times in less than 2 years, the passenger door not always locking, and the emblem on the hood falling off. We also had to replace the armrest in the center console and many of the interior parts due to the cheap plastic coating rubbing off. Despite these issues, we have enjoyed the vehicle overall. However, we would have liked to trade it in for something that fits our 2 car seats better, as a rear-facing car seat requires that the front seat is moved all the way forward. Thank you for considering our feedback.
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I had a 2003 car that never gave me any issues except for a squeaky top in cold weather. I love ragtops and was considering Audi or BMW. However, I received an early termination deal for my SAAB, coupled with a GM program, which would save me quite a bit. So, I looked at the SAAB Aero and fell in love with it. The black on black is a hot car with great seats and interior, although I think the trunk is smaller. I miss the fold-down back seat, but it had to be sacrificed for the pop-up rollbars. I still haven't figured out the displays.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2005 Saab 9-3 problems:
2005 Saab 9-3 Problems and Complaints - 15 Issues
Top 2005 Saab 9-3 Problems · Engine Coolant Loss and no Leak Noted · Knocking Noise While Turning and/or a Banging Noise When Driving on Rough Roads · The Anti- ...
Potentially a new SAAB 2005 9-3 Convertible owner - what are the ...
Jun 19, 2021 ... Then the problems keep increasing. So to the OP, if the car has issues now, don't bother. If it doesn't, why not go for it?
Any bad experiences with the 9-3 1.8t 2005? : r/saab
Mar 25, 2023 ... ... common issues I should know about, since it's my first Saab. more.
Electrical issues w/2005 9-3 Aero Convertible
Dec 17, 2014 ... Took the car to several different mechanics, including a Saab mechanic 25 miles away. Battery was new. No one could find the problem. Solution: ...
2005 Saab 9-3 or 2010 Saab 9-3 for reliability?
Apr 20, 2022 ... If so it's a good car and even better deal. The 2010 is mostly cosmetic improvements at this point, unless there's any residual problems on the ...
Other years of Saab 9-3
Are you having problems with your 2005 Saab 9-3?
Harmon Upton 2024-08-29
I initially purchased a 93 Aero, but unfortunately it shook terribly. I returned it and got a 93 Arc, but this one also shakes! Even in a loaner from the dealer, it shakes at 70 mph. My car has been in the shop for over a month just because of a simple balancing job, but it turns out that it couldn't be fixed, so they had to replace all 4 tires! Unfortunately, not even a year after my second purchase, I am already planning to trade it in after summer. If you are not prepared for a high maintenance car, I would advise against buying a 93 convertible. It seems to be in the shop for 'updates' almost every month.
Dejon Batz 2024-08-13
The car has been a great driving machine! However, there have been some issues with the electrical system. The sunroof and windows had some trouble closing, but thankfully, they were covered by warranty. Recently, I had to take the car to the shop for some repairs, including the belt and tensioner, solenoid, filter, and coolant system. Although it cost $1200, I'm glad to have it fixed. Unfortunately, they just informed me that the radiator needs to be replaced, which will cost $1100. Despite these repairs, I still enjoy driving the car. I did have to replace the brakes and rotors at 40,000 miles, but that's just regular maintenance. Overall, I'm happy with the car and its performance on the road.
Sheldon Lueilwitz 2024-06-17
I have owned Saabs for most of my driving career and I must say that it is sad that GM bought the brand and then put it out of business. However, I was able to save considerable cost by buying the 2005 Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible used. I have not had any major maintenance expenses other than high mile service (30-60-90). Although the performance tires run hard, they don't last long which is a bit of a shame. The interior is simple and the plastic buttons made by GM have peeled. I have a love/hate relationship with a brand that harkens back to speed and safety. It is worth noting that mechanics charge more for their services on discontinued brands, but overall, the maintenance is not considerably more than any other convertible.
Pedro Raynor 2024-03-28
The sun roof, A/C blower motor, center caps of rims, rear logo, and passenger seat plastic trim have all experienced issues. However, these problems can be resolved with proper maintenance and repair. It is important to note that the interior may not be as durable as some other models. Overall, the Toyota is a reliable choice.
Cordelia Runolfsson 2024-03-11
It looks like there are a few small flaws.