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2003 Saab 9-3 Problems and Repair Histories

2003 Saab 9-3  Problems:

2003 Saab 9-3 problems reported via the Car Repair History and Car Reliability Surveys

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Repair costs are in local units.

2003 Saab 9-3

Engine not specified

Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Dec 2012 188000   First odometer entry
Jan 2013 188000 150 Coil Pack replacement 

 

Saab 9-3 in Connecticut, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jun 2010 142000   First odometer entry
Jan 2011 156000 950 right front wheel bearing, 450 replaced radiator, 500 
Jul 2011 166000 0 clutch master cylinder Secondary air injection pump Right front shock/strut Exhaust mounts rusted out and was barely hanging on. Autolocking door cylinder, Trunk latch not working Fuel pump sending unit not working (gas gauge doesn't work) 

 

Saab 9-3 in California, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Aug 2010 50000   First odometer entry
Sep 2010 50000 480 Informed me I need 4 pads/Rotors Saabs cost $1100.00. Bid from Midas $470.00. Battery Bad again. Replaced again in less than 2yrs. Intermediate service completed. Told I needed to replace the Head light connectors. Cost $300.00. Bought connectors myself and repaired myself. Cost $10 
Jun 2011   Most recent odometer entry.

 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Mar 2011 187000   First odometer entry
Nov 2011 198000 600 oil leak. Noticed oil on driveway after parking car. Shop said it was a common problem on my car. said oil was actually leaking into power steering fluid.. which made sense since my steering had also been "off" during leak. 

 

Saab 9-3 in Greece
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jun 2010 60140   First odometer entry
Dec 2011 66960 80 Replaced boost control valve 
Mar 2013 72540   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
May 2009 96000   First odometer entry
Jul 2009 97000 0 When sold, sunroof motor needed to be replaced as it would not work during hot summer days (this was already replaced 1 other time in 2007). When sold an air intake problem caused the car to severely shudder (and almost stall out) during heavy acceleration. 

 

Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Nov 2011 96000   First odometer entry
Dec 2011 97000 100 Drivers side rear door actuator fault. 
Mar 2013 117000   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Missouri, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Sep 2010 77000   First odometer entry
Oct 2010 77000 200 Window regulator was broken 
May 2011 89000 440 Replaced amp under the drivers seat  and windshield wiper transmission. 

 

Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Aug 2010 112000   First odometer entry
Sep 2010 112000 60 The ball joint was bad on the left front and replaced with a used part. 
Mar 2011   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Aug 2010 67000   First odometer entry
Sep 2010 68000 968 Cabin fan did not work Control unit was also burnt out. Replaced cabin fan motor, control unit, and air filter. Check operation everything was ok when done 
Mar 2011 71000 247 Replaced LH front upper strut mount and bearing. Replaced LH front sway bar link. 
Jun 2011 72000 611 Fixed driver’s side window(recalibrated) Replaced both rear upper strut mounts. No A/C from center or right side. Turned out it needed a refrigerant dye and a recharge system. Right side front side marker out. Socket rotted. Replaced socket and bulb. Fixed passenger’s side window(recalibrated) 
Dec 2011 78000 45 hooting noise from turbo when letting off accelerator. Due to a valve on the turbo. Put stock air filter back in(took out K&N) and it helped reduce hooting(pssst) noise when presure is released. Also have a squeeky AC fan. 
Mar 2012 80000 175 One of the A/C fans was making a noise as if a bearing was going unit. Then the A/C stopped blowing cold. Took it in quick fix was a re-charge. May need the whole A/C system to be replaced down the road, but works for now. 
Jun 2012 81000 1550 Problem with A/C. Had Dye stick and Freon done to get a base line. New Expansion valve, AC evaporator, and seal ring. Also Dye Stick and Freon. Note there was a metal OEM piece part of the fire wall that rusted. Others will have the same issue. We still have water leaking in the car during a rain. 
Sep 2012 81000   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Delaware, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Apr 2010 108000   First odometer entry
May 2010 109000 250 The headlights were unusually dim. One of the light bulbs was incorrectly installed and the wiring was discolored. The dealer replaced the wiring and bulbs. The lights are much better; although, I still wish that they were brighter. 
Jun 2011   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Dec 2006 40000   First odometer entry
Feb 2008 51000 827 Ignition switch and steering wheel lock failure. Could not start car. Could not turn ignition switch. 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Dec 2006 53000   First odometer entry
Aug 2008 67000 480 The check valve for the SAI pump did not work. The fuel pump sensor had to be replaced. 
Dec 2008 69000 310 Driver side window regulator did not work. 
May 2010 80000 0 The front left spring was broken. 
Dec 2010 84000 100 One of the ignition coils stopped working and had to be replaced.  
Jun 2011 86000   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in New Hampshire, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jan 2006 0 OnStar amp replaced 
Feb 2006 0 Emergency brake handle replaced 
Dec 2006 0 OnStar box replaced 
Apr 2007 33000 600 Rear brake pads and rotors needed replacement 
Aug 2007 37000 25 Loose heat shield. 
Mar 2010 51000 0 Front coil springs broken, replaced. Front struts and steering links replaced 
Jun 2010 54000 1300 Replaced front pads. Also replaced front struts (not actually replaced in March), but this was more an upgrade than a repair. 
Jan 2012 62500 788 Secondary Air Injection pump and check valve had failed. They were replaced. 
Feb 2012 63000 500 Fuel tank level sender replaced 
Jul 2012   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Nov 2012 75000   First odometer entry
Dec 2012 75000 1100 emissions air pump 

 

Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jan 2006 0 Replaced front end suspension. under warranty 
Aug 2006 0 Window fell off track. While in car wash! warranty 

 

Saab 9-3 in Connecticut, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Oct 2012 117000   First odometer entry
Nov 2012 117000 100 SAI Cutoff valve 

 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

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

Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Aug 2011 91000   First odometer entry
Sep 2011 91000 0 passenger side door has no power. window, lock and mirror not working. disconnected and reconnected battery to clear error. also cleared immobilizer failure error. 
Jan 2013   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Aug 2006 0 Rear Main Engine Seal 
Aug 2009 0 Door Gasket Leaking, replaced 
Jan 2010 630 Replace Alternator 
Mar 2010 105000 60 Gearbox Malfunction, Limp home. Problem resolved but reappeared 1 hr after leaving shop. 
Dec 2010 113000 35 All Warning Lights coming on, Radio/Dash not Lighting..... Battery was disconnected for a time.... problem never returned. Saab Gremlins 
Jun 2011   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Florida, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Apr 2006 0 Saab Hood Emblem replaced ACC trim panel replaced due to peeling finish on button 
Jun 2006 0 Drivers side door handle replaced due to fading OnStar shark fin antenna replaced due to fading 
Feb 2007 54000 0 headlight assembly failure cd player failure 
May 2007 60000 661 Headlight bulb shorted out. Transmission cooler line came loose. 
Jun 2008 81000 0 Main seal leaking 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in New Hampshire, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Apr 2010 70000   First odometer entry
May 2010 70000 100 Rough shifts (automatic transmission) going from Reverse to Drive where the whole car would rattle and a metallic noise would sound from under the hood. Also had rough shifts from first to second. Replaced transmission. 
Jun 2011   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in New South Wales, Australia
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Mar 2009 6300 Brand new automatic transmission!! Original price for transmission $14,000. Haggle haggle haggle and get the price down. Saab are trying to recover costs by charging customers on spare parts - not good Saab!! 
Aug 2010 39680 0 Many ongoing problems when sold. Ignition control unit (ICU)... radio... interior trim, rattles, the car continued to rattle, squeak, and fall apart. 

 

Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jan 2008 90000   First odometer entry
Feb 2008 90000 849 Car wouldn't shift right. 
Mar 2008 92000 876 Gearbox malfunction light came on not even 24 hours after getting it back from 23 days in the shop. 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Oct 2008 55000   First odometer entry
Dec 2008 55000 0 Column Integration Module (Saab Part No. 12805196) replaced. 
Jun 2009 63000 0 A/C blower motor was replaced Both front springs were replaced 
Feb 2010 73000 300 passenger side, rear caliper seized, locking that wheel 
Feb 2011 89000 340 Tie-rod end replaced. 
May 2011 90300 130 Sway bar link was broken 
Aug 2011 94300 120 loose exhaust heat shield 
Sep 2012 112000 180 replace one rear caliper and rotor. replace pads, both sides, rear. 

 

Saab 9-3 in Tennessee, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Mar 2012 138000   First odometer entry
Apr 2012 138700 150 Weeping radiator from plastic fins on both driver and passenger sides. Ordered replacement radiator, installed by self. 
Aug 2012 149000 40 Rubber seal between engine and power steering pump had deteriorated, allowing oil to flow unilaterally into the power steering pump and reservoir. Removed power steering pump, replaced seal with viton aftermarket seal. Reassembled. 
Jan 2013 151300 45 Exterior "shark fin" dummy antenna showed severe signs of rotting. Rear parcel shelf, C-Pillar trim, and top brake light cover removed. Unscrewed antenna bolt, severed old, nonfunctional OnStar wires. Installed new antenna, reassembled. 
Mar 2013 154000   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Ontario, Canada
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Nov 2007 52080   First odometer entry
Dec 2007 52700 1351 Strut mount worn, replaced both and included water guard. Alignment required and paid for by customer. Xenon light flickering. Headlamp module and socket repair may be needed. Module repaired unsuccessful in fixing issue Headlamp Socket was repaired subsequent to headlamp module being repaired. Problem seems to have been fixed at this point. 
Feb 2008 55180 100 Parking brake would not release. Wheels would not move, car needed to be towed to dealer. Dealer was able to release parking brake. There is a TSB on the parking brake release issue, dealer did not offer repair, said "try not to use it". 
Feb 2009 69440 0 CD changer skips in cold weather. Known issue with Clarion cd changer, dealer refuses to fix because could not replicate in warm shop. Also, only occurs during driving, and dealer did not test drive.  Replaced rusty wheel bolts. (known issue, to rust). 
Mar 2009 70680 0 Coolant level dropped twice in 2 weeks to warning level. Shop not able to find leak, used dye in coolant and returned 1 week later, still no evidence of leak. Told to keep eye on levels. No repair, no cost. 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Taiwan
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jun 2010 1450 Steering and suspension, repair 
Jul 2010 13 antenna cover replacement 
Aug 2010 60 intake pressure sensor 
Dec 2010 70 cd player parts 
May 2011 300 brake vaccum pump oil seal replacement preheating oxygen sensor replacement 
Jul 2011 175 water temp. regulator coolant coolant reservior  
Aug 2011 170 rear oxygen sensor replacement 
Sep 2011 78120 7172 check engine light on due to oxygen sensor voltage low check engine light on due to front oxygen sensor reading low voltage check engine light on due to front oxygen sensor reading low voltage. could caused by catalytic converter leak 

 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

Saab 9-3 in Maryland, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Nov 2008 89000   First odometer entry
Mar 2009 92000 1079 Oil Cooler had a leak and needed to be replaced. 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Feb 2007 0 Updated transmission software to combat rough shifts/surges (partially failed) Replaced aerial which wasn't flush with roof Repaired lumbar support in driver's seat Fixed rattle from passenger seat (loose screw) 

 

Saab 9-3 in Georgia, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Mar 2010 2400 AC motor replaced, because it was locking up and the belt was slipping as it is connected to the AC motor. 
Apr 2010 200 Coolant leak tube replaced. 
May 2010 0 Coolant leak fixed again. 
Mar 2011 650 Interior A/C Vent Motor Failed 
Apr 2011 500 Replaced oil gasket. Car had a major oil leak underneath, and was drenched in oil that was smoking from under the car. 

 

Saab 9-3 in Quebec, Canada
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jan 2008 0 front strut mount bearings, both sides Airbag system failure 

 

Saab 9-3 in Washington, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Mar 2012 119000   First odometer entry
Apr 2012 120000 0 Vacuum line broke 
Aug 2012 124000   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in New Mexico, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jul 2011 97000   First odometer entry
Sep 2011 99000 800 Replacement of alternator assembly. 
Oct 2011   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Maine, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jul 2012 130000   First odometer entry
Oct 2012 136700 0 Had to replace rear brake pads and calipers, and turn the front rotors. 
Dec 2012 140000   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in California, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Mar 2004 0 Gearbox malfunction. Reprogrammed SPS. Covered by warranty. 
Nov 2004 0 Water pump bolts leaking, reseal bolts. Covered by warranty. Onstar unit replaced. 
Feb 2005 0 Door handles replaced under warranty. 
Nov 2005 0 Remote keys replaced under warranty 
Jan 2006 0 Transmission slips between 2nd and 3rd. No problem found. 
Mar 2006 0 Steering wheel lock malfunction. 
Apr 2006 0 Brake booster vacuum recall. Low coolant. Radiator leak on driver side seam. Replaced under warranty. Gearbox malfunction light. Short to ground SLM. Readd SLM under warranty. 
Jul 2006 0 Transmission replaced under warranty 
Nov 2006 0 Performed oil cooler quick coupling reprogramming under warranty 
Mar 2007 0 Battery failure, replaced under warranty. 
Apr 2008 0 Gearbox malfunction. P0826-06 fault code. Readjust SLM. No charge. 
Nov 2008 260 Driver side window regulator replaced. 
Jun 2010 63000 460 Window regulator replaced in front passenger side 
Oct 2011 74000 60 Gearbox malfunction on display. Repair shop said they could not duplicate, probably intermittent problem. 
Mar 2013   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Ontario, Canada
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jan 2007 44640   First odometer entry
Mar 2007 46500 0 "Gearbox Malfunction - Limited Performance - Contact Saab Dealer" error message displayed on SID. Cleared by dealer. 
Apr 2007 48360 100 Power steering pump replacement. 
Apr 2008 62000 100 6-disc changer replaced. 
May 2008 62620 0 Replaced 6 disc in-dash changer due to constant skipping. 
Aug 2008 63860 600 Replaced the AC fan and amplifier a few weeks before I sold it, it had moisture build-up and had stopped working. 

 

Saab 9-3 in Connecticut, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Dec 2008 59000   First odometer entry
May 2009 64000 550 ABS Bearing on PF wheel went bad. Covered by warranty.  Also, leak in A/C caused minor water damage in PF footwell. Covered by owner. 
Sep 2009 71000 100 A/C not working, so it was taken in. Vacuum Pump faulty, replaced. Rear Main Seal leaking. Warranty company would not validate RMS, so I drove the car for 2 weeks til RMS leaked more oil. 
Oct 2009 73000 168 Rear Main Seal continued a slow oil leak, as Dealership foretold. Returned to Dealer, where problem was successfully repaired. 
Nov 2009 73000 400 Neutral Safety Switch, leaving the car thinking it was in 2nd gear (incapable of being in Park, so I left in a level parking lot with the e-brake on). Could not be restarted, as it was in gear. Towed to shop. Repaired. 
Mar 2010 78000 150 Tranny. Had to be replaced. Fitted with factory-rebuilt. Also had a vacuum hose crack during service, which had to be replaced. 
Aug 2010 83000 100 Fuel Sensor and Fuel Sender replaced. 
Sep 2010 84000 550 oil leak in gasket behind timing belt. water leak in cowl drain. cowl and drainage system replaced. 
Dec 2011 100000 1000 Loose front right tie rod was discovered during an end of warranty inspection. Replaced under warranty. Leaky power steering pump round during end of warranty inspection. Replaced under warranty. 
Mar 2013 115000   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Nov 2008 51000   First odometer entry
Dec 2008 54000 0 The blower on the heater stopped working so no air was coming out of the vents. My wife was borrowing the car that day and had the worst drive of her life in an unbearably cold car. Dealer installed new blower. 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Komi Rep., Russia
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Sep 2007 200 1. Thrust bearing, PartNo 9191181 2. Support bearing, PartNo 24435884 
Jun 2008 59520 0 Replaced in Rear axel: 1. Cross stay upper 2. Cross stay 3. Links for the anti-roll bar 4. Almost bushings  
Dec 2008 69440 0 Driver's window stopped go up & down. Because of frost it freezed and broked the plastic "piece" which is holding the rope... 
Jun 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Georgia, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Dec 2002 0 Car failed to start. Towed and repaired under warranty. 
May 2004 0 onstar unit failed. Replaced under warranty 
Oct 2004 0 pass door and window inoperative. Replaced under warranty 
Mar 2005 0 pass door and window relay inoperative. Replaced free under Saab "program" 
Oct 2006 1008 Rear crank seal leaking, replaced 
Nov 2006 400 inoperative climate control system. Electronic fault. 
Jul 2007 68000 650 Drivers side front and rear window regulators malfunctioned same week. Motors ok, regulator lifts only replaced. 
Feb 2008   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Georgia, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Apr 2007 0 Replaced solar sensor and the display unit. Covered under extended warranty. 
Aug 2007 74000 0 Driver's seat does not stay up (seat height). Needs to be manually raised each time when getting in the car. A number of parts have been replaced, but the problem still exists. 
Sep 2007 75000 0 Under warranty. Same ongoing problem with the drivers seat. They replaced the frame. Still same problem exists. Front passenger window failed while going down. Made a loud noise and then stopped working. Repaired under warranty. 
Oct 2007 76000 0 Passenger window stopped working. 
Jan 2008 82000 0 Same problem with falling driver seat. Rear windshield rubber molding disintegrating. Replaced. 
Jul 2008 84000 0 Engine light caused by faulty engine "back flow(?)" valve. Replaced under CPO warranty. 
Sep 2008 86000 0 Immobilizer malfunction. Had to replace ignition key module. 
Mar 2011 104000 220 Transmission revving when slowing down. Flushed and replaced fluid. 
Feb 2012 110000 300 Clogged drain resulting in wet interior. 

 

Saab 9-3 in Oklahoma, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Sep 2009 77000   First odometer entry
Jan 2010 78700 144 Faulty O-ring between the radiator and transmission. It was leaking coolant so I got it fixed, fortunately did not need to replace the radiator. 
Jun 2010 82000 600 The vehicle was leaking coolant. Waterpump had to be replaced. 
Jun 2011   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jan 2009 84000   First odometer entry
Jul 2009 90000 880 O2 sensor. O2 sensor wiring harness compromised, allowing moisture in. Took three repair trips to resolve. Shocks. 

 

Saab 9-3 in New Hampshire, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Feb 2010 93000   First odometer entry
Mar 2010 94000 0 Anti-vibration shaft chain tensioner needs to be replaced. Spring mounts need to be replaced. Auxiliary air pump needs to be replaced. 
Jun 2011   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Oct 2008 1000 Replace secondary air injection pump, check valve, and associated hoses, as pump was ruined because of previously "stuck open" check valve, allowing exhaust gas condensate to enter the pump and freeze during winter months. 
Aug 2009 950 Replace front and rear main seals to correct an engine oil leak. 
Jul 2010 81000 566 Replacement O2 sensor and ECU reflash to latest version. Replacement front coil suspension. I was made aware of this by a letter from Saab NA. I was told the warranty for this part had been extended to 10 years. Coils replaced free of charge as expected. 
Dec 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Rhode Island, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jun 2010 85000   First odometer entry
Jul 2010 86000 118 Ignition switch went bad Front upper strut mount broken 
Aug 2010 88000 400 Fixed original strut mount problem 
Feb 2011 93000 750 Steering lock solenoid seized causing the car immobilizer to not allow startup. 
Sep 2011 101000   Most recent odometer entry.

 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 175hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in Ohio, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Oct 2008 67000   First odometer entry
Mar 2009 78000 16 Left low beam headlight burned out. Took an hour to get the bulb from a parts store and replace it myself. 
May 2010 104000 750 Fuel pump needed replacement. 
Mar 2011 114000   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Colorado, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jan 2011 96000   First odometer entry
Feb 2011 97500 325 Alternator died; Having mechanic put in but one isn't available from distributor for two weeks! Called Saab dealer and will cost $1100 to repair!!  Left headlight went out. It cost me $300 for a new one!! I think they called it a Zion light which is more expensive. This car is costing me an arm and leg to repair. Great car BUT will cost you to fix!! 
Mar 2011 99000   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in California, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jul 2010 68000   First odometer entry
Nov 2010 72000 150 Steering wheel mounted switch for audio volume control failed. Replacement part was ordered, but not yet installed.  
Mar 2013 99000   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Quebec, Canada
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Oct 2010 115940   First odometer entry
Nov 2010 117800 500 While getting winter tires mounted, mechanic noted right rear brake caliper was frozen and had caused excessive wear to rotor. Had to replace both. 
Jul 2011 123560 240 Replaced leaking oil pressure switch. Also had the serpentine drive belt replaced. Car had 199954km at the time. 
Sep 2011 125240 1570 cable for the power driver's side window kinked and the whole regulator had to be replaced. Car suddenly refused to start. Towed to mechanic who after MUCH frustration found numerous intermittent electrical connections under the fuse box. Also found loose starter motor and fixed but that was not the cause of the problem. 
Dec 2011   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Wisconsin, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jan 2013 86000   First odometer entry
Mar 2013 88000 0 Strut bearings and struts replaced. 

 

Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jan 2006 0 traction control problem, front end noise, and saab emblems looked to be coming apart 
Apr 2006 0 passenger side seatbelt warning light came on with no one in seat and front end noise from suspension. fixed the seat sensor, and still no fix for the front end noise. 
May 2006 0 fog lamp went out, rear seat release broke, driver side lumbar cable snapped, traction control issue again, and sunroof would close then go back open, staying in the open position. software fix for sunroof, replaced the lamp and fixed the lumbar in seat. 
Jul 2006 556 replaced front rotors and brakes, front end noise continues - no fix, interior knobs peeling, door handles faded, and alarm going off for no reason inside of garage. software for alarm, replace knobs, door handles, and lug nuts 
Oct 2006 0 window framing came apart in door and dent the door skin outward fortunatly the window was stuck up, new clutch assist spring put in and it broke and was squeaking, replaced window frame and spring. scheduled to get body work fixed. 
Dec 2006 0 front end noise still and issue - nothing. replace all control arms and still didn't fix the noise, had gotten really bad and now (jan 6 2007) still there. shift knob came apart and front passenger side door close sensor is bad saying the door is staying  
Mar 2007 55000 350 this car sucks goat balls. I had every light up front out when i took it to the shop. Every drive light the only thing that worked was on fog light i had replace one month ago. I did hire a lawyer and he got me three thosand dollars from saab because this 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Wisconsin, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jul 2007 66000   First odometer entry
Oct 2007 70000 250 FRONT WHEEL BEARING-UNDER WARRANTY OIL CHANGE, ROTATE TIRES, REPLACE SOME BULBS & AIR FILTERS, REAR BRAKES-GENERAL MAINTENANCE 
Nov 2008   Most recent odometer entry.

 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD

Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Dec 2006 32000   First odometer entry
Apr 2007 37000 0 CD Changer jammed while attempting to change from one disk to another. Unable to remove any disks; needed a new disk changer. install cd changer water leak in right rear footwell. Not sure if caused by what appeared to be an improperly installed doorseal or not, dealer tested integrity of door seal & repositioned. 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab in Massachusetts, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jan 2007 35000   First odometer entry
Mar 2007 36000 0 Fuel gauge 
Apr 2007 37000 0 fuel pump 
Jun 2007 37000 0 charcoal canister for fuel system 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab in Missouri, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Dec 2006 55000   First odometer entry
Feb 2007 56000 0 Throttle "helper spring" dislodged because the clip that holds it in place broke. I discovered it on the floorboard 
Apr 2007   Most recent odometer entry.

 

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2003 Saab 9-3 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder automatic 2WD

Saab 9-3 in Georgia, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Feb 2007 61000   First odometer entry
Mar 2007 62000 3000 After replacing the fuel system module with its sensor and having a subsequent engine stoppage, the dealer reinstalled the ECM software. A week later the car stalled in traffic again and would not restart. Towed to dealer, dealer had to install another After fuel system module replacement, the car stalled on the road, had car towed to the dealership. The reflashed ECM based on diagonistics. Eventually in a later visit the ECM was replaced. Fuel gauge failed to report fuel level. Dealer reported fuel pump and module had to be replaced. 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Washington, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Feb 2007 39000   First odometer entry
Jul 2007 43000 0 Oil pump leaking fluid. 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

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2003 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

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

Saab 9-3 in Ontario, Canada
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jul 2008 63240   First odometer entry
Sep 2008 63240 1500 Engine sludge & PCV fix from latest TSB. The engine thus needed to drop sump,remove valve cover,secondary oil lines and clean. Replace timing chain and serpentine belt. Email: ultimately replaced engine. 
Dec 2008 63240 360 This was a TSB for PCV valve retrofit to avoid possible sludge build up. 
Jan 2009 65100 560 Water pump replaced. 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

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2003 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in California, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Jun 2011 96000   First odometer entry
Jul 2011 98000 2750 Car brought in for 90k maintenance, returned twice in two weeks - 1st for pressure hoses for power steering system,  then again for failing AC compressor. 
Oct 2011 101000 110 convertible gasket seal is allowing water in via flange (capillary action drawing it inside the window) - water drips down the interior of the window/door when it rains heavily. 
Jan 2012 106700 1140 full brake replacement temp sensor for coolant 
Jan 2013 120000 0 intermittent engine temp sensor failure grinding noise from passenger side mid-engine (around drive belts) 

 

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2003 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 205hp 2.0L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

Saab 9-3 in Georgia, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Aug 2007 47000   First odometer entry
Jun 2008 0 repair/replacement of ignition sensor and replace serpentine belt. 
Mar 2009 64000 350 A/C switch went bad also cabin filter replaced. 
Mar 2010   Most recent odometer entry.

 

Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Mar 2010 56000   First odometer entry
Apr 2010 57000 250 speed sensor for abs was bad 
Dec 2010 63000 800 Hole in stainless exhaust flex tube caused by corrosion. 
Mar 2013 83000 1200 A seal was leaking somewhere in the system. Brakes wouldn't hold when first driving car. 

 

Saab 9-3 in New Hampshire, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Oct 2010 86000   First odometer entry
Jun 2011 95000 0 Plastic piece on driver seat replaced 4 times (varies from $40-$60 each time) -- very cheap plastic. This time collision shop found a way to bolt it down and did not replace it -- so far, so good. 
Aug 2011 98000 1750 replace ac compressor for 2nd time in 2 yrs, now the hose is broken too 2 tires and brakes - front tires continue to wear quickly and unevenly despite alighments.... would not buy another SAAB 
Sep 2011 99000 0 AC hose replaced 
Apr 2012 112300 500 transmission supports giving out 
Jul 2012 116000 333 CV joint or something like that. Need to repair plastic side piece on driver's seat AGAIN - #6 I think. 
Oct 2012 122300 500 Axle and some other part on right front side, hard to get the parts. 
Nov 2012 123700 600 right front axle finally found ordered and replaced 
Jan 2013 127300 80 left front headlight not working on high beams; upon checking it is noted by owner that light is not working at all 
Mar 2013 132000 40 The light was actually fixed this time. 

 

Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States
Month Year Odometer
(in miles)
Cost Problem/Repair Description
Apr 2009 79000   First odometer entry
Sep 2010 95000 250 Pulley and bearing on alternator failed, serpentine belt destroyed. Alternator replaced, serpentine replaced. 
Sep 2011 106000 200 Alternator replaced 
Oct 2011 106700 100 Replaced oil drain box and hose according to technical service bulletin. Parts purchased online and installed myself. Engine had sludge problem and this fixed it over next two oil changes. 
Mar 2012 111000   Most recent odometer entry.

 

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