What are the most common problems with a Saab 9-3?

What are the most common problems with a Saab 9-3?

Believe it or not one of the most common issues with the Saab 9-3 is with the heating system. However, we’re not talking about deep faults within the air conditioning unit, but rather structural problems with the dial controls and knobs. These are known to easily crack off and split.

When did the Saab 9 diesel engine come out?

If you like efficient motoring that puts a lot of power underneath the pedal, then this is a great place to start. Originally unleashed on the motoring public back in 1998, various iterations of the vehicle have featured a range of power systems including 1.8t BioPower and 2.8T V6 Diesel engines.

Why is my Saab 9-3 steering not working?

If so, then you could be looking at a problem with the bulkhead, which is caused by a mounting system that connects this part to the steering rack. Another tell-tale sign of this issue is vague and slightly unresponsive steering. Avoid any vehicle exhibiting these symptoms.

Why does my Saab have trouble starting cold?

My Saab has worn intake valve seats which was confirmed with a compression test. Because of this problem, my car is having trouble starting cold. According to multiple Saab blogs, this is a very common problem and is possibly caused by defective parts. Pearl Wilson is typing…

Where is the brake fluid in a Saab 9-3?

The brake fluid reservoir is fitted on the master cylinder with separate chambers for the primary and secondary circuits. used in clutch system. A brake fluid level switch is mounted on the brake fluid reservoir. The circuit and warns the driver regarding the condition. a vacuum pump.

What are the most common problems with the Saab 9-3?

We carry the motor in Valeo, which is the OEM supplier of these motors to Saab. Broken suspension springs are a common problem in new-gen 9-3’s, and are something to keep an eye out for. For whatever reason, the springs snap near the perch, causing a knocking/popping noise.

If so, then you could be looking at a problem with the bulkhead, which is caused by a mounting system that connects this part to the steering rack. Another tell-tale sign of this issue is vague and slightly unresponsive steering. Avoid any vehicle exhibiting these symptoms.

When did the second generation Saab 9-3 come out?

The most drastic change from the former generation was the elimination of the hatchback design. The second-generation 9-3 was available as a four-door saloon, an estate (introduced in late 2005 as a 2006 model, known as the SportWagon, SportCombi or Sport-Hatch dependant on the market), and a two-door convertible (introduced in 2004).

Is the fuel level sensor on a Saab 9-3?

The fuel pump assembly has the fuel level sensor built-in. Like nearly all modern cars, the 9-3ss uses an electronic throttle body that is prone to failure.

What causes engine management light to come on on Saab 9-3?

This Saab 9-3 engine ECU is a common failure that causes the engine management light to come on followed by the engine cutting out when hot, the car will then fail to restart until the engine cools down again. The ECU fault will usually start out as intermittent but will become more permanent with time.

How to send Saab 9-3 engine ECU repair?

Print the payment/booking confirmation email. Package the Saab 9-3 engine ECU inside a sturdy box with plenty of packaging material (make sure you include your confirmation email in the box). Send us your package by tracked courier (the shipping instructions are on the confirmation email).

How much does a Saab 9-3 convertible cost?

Whilst on the subject of GM and parts, now Saab are sadly defunct is parts availability likely to be an issue or will the wonders of parts sharing ensure they’re still easy to come by? I believe it’s up for £5,495 which sounds fairly reasonable. No problems whatsoever with parts availability.

When did the Saab 9-3 get a facelift?

In 2007 the interior was updated, and in 2008 the 9-3s underwent an external facelift, with many newly designed parts added with both. The 2.0 4 cylinder is a GM Ecotec unit that is also used in tons of other applications.

In 2007 the interior was updated, and in 2008 the 9-3s underwent an external facelift, with many newly designed parts added with both. The 2.0 4 cylinder is a GM Ecotec unit that is also used in tons of other applications.

How do you remove a radio from a Saab 93?

Given that Saab dealers don’t exist any more you’ll need to contact a professional locksmith to have them reprogram your Saab’s key to the car itself. How to remove Saab 93 radio? Begin by gently popping out the air vents in-line with the vent control knobs using a plastic trim removal tool.

How do you hotwire a Saab 9 3?

Slide and twist the vents out to remove them, then use a TX25 Torx bits from the top of the radio unit. Lift the radio up and pull it forward, then unplug the wiring. How to hotwire a Saab 93?

Why does my Saab 9 have sludge in it?

If the previous owner of this Saab has not been keeping up with regular services or has used thicker oil than is stipulated in the owner’s manual then sludge can build up rapidly in the engine.

Why does my Saab 9-3 crank but not start?

If your 9-3 isn’t getting enough fuel, or any fuel at all, it may have a bad fuel filter, bad fuel pump, or bad fuel injectors. Without the proper amount of fuel getting into the combustion chamber, the 9-3 will crank, but not start. 2. Ignition Issues One of the biggest issues that causes a vehicle to crank but not start is ignition issues.

What kind of platform does the Saab 9-3 have?

The 9-3 was first based on the GM2900 platform and subsequently changed to the GM Epsilon platform. Other vehicles using this platform included the Opel Vectra and Cadillac BLS. Saab’s last owners, National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS) were assembling the 9-3 sedan (saloon) as Saab’s only model.

When did the Saab 9-3 anniversary convertible come out?

Saab 9-3 Anniversary convertible (Australia) The first generation 9-3, an updated Saab 900 (NG) was launched in 1998 for the 1999 model year. It was known to enthusiasts as the OG 9-3 (old generation) and internally as body style 9400. It continued as a full line through the 2002 model year.

Where was the Saab 9-3 Viggen hatchback made?

As with the preceding generation, convertibles were built by Valmet in Uusikaupunki, Finland. Valmet was also the only plant assembling the 9-3 Viggen, in all three bodystyles. After production at Saab’s main plant ended, Valmet kept producing non-Viggen hatchbacks until 2003.

When did Saab extend warranties on turbo engines?

Saab has ten years ago extended warranties on its turbo engines made from 1999 to 2002 due to a nasty oil sludge problem.

Why is my Saab 2.0 engine leaking oil?

Experts suggest this may be due to the catalytic converter being mounted below the sump, cooking the oil at high temperature. Currently, Saab recommends removal of the sump and doing a complete cleaning. That’s if the engine is still running. Then there’s direct-ignition cassette failures and cylinder-head gasket leaks to contend with.


What do some people think about Saab ownership?

One of the worst thinks about Saab ownership is the quality of the keys they are a made of a substance that disloves in air. Saab 9-3 TID any good? – Mike H

Believe it or not one of the most common issues with the Saab 9-3 is with the heating system. However, we’re not talking about deep faults within the air conditioning unit, but rather structural problems with the dial controls and knobs. These are known to easily crack off and split.

Is there a Saab forum for technical information?

A new forum for technical information for Saab’s first Sports Utility Vehicle: the new Saab 9-7X M04-. Performance Saab forum for all Saab models. Information and advice regarding the forthcoming SaabTrackday. This forum is for the posting and comment on Saab press releases and news stories.

If the previous owner of this Saab has not been keeping up with regular services or has used thicker oil than is stipulated in the owner’s manual then sludge can build up rapidly in the engine.

Is there a Repair Manual for a Saab 9-3 Turbo?

Our most popular manual is the Saab Saab 9-3 Saab 9 3 2000 Workshop Manual Convertible 2.0L Turbo . This (like all of our manuals) is available to download for free in PDF format. How to download a Saab 9-3 Repair Manual (for any year)

How do you know if your Saab has a trouble code?

On all models, turn ignition on. The check engine will come on. Turn the jumper lead switch on (grounding ECU pin 16). The check engine light will now go out. Watch the check engine light carefully. After approximately 2.5 seconds, the check engine light will flash briefly, signifying that the first diagnostic trouble code will be displayed.

How to display the DTC on a Saab?

To display the DTC’s again, starting from the first DTC, proceed as follows: Turn the jumper lead switch on. After two short flashes of the check engine light, immediately turn the jumper lead switch off. The DTC for the first fault will now be displayed.

Why does my Saab 9-3 engine not start?

It really can get that one last start out of it. There are a lot of issues that can cause your 9-3 to crank, but not start. The engine needs air, fuel, and a spark in order to run. It is highly likely that if the engine is cranking, but not starting that it has thrown an OBDII code.

The following chart shows the 24 most common problems for SAAB 9-3 cars. The number one most common problem is related to the vehicle’s air bags (373 problems). The second most common problem is related to the vehicle’s engine and engine cooling (225 problems). Table 2. Common problems of SAAB 9-3

What was the difference between the Saab 900 and 900 NG?

Improvements over the Saab 900 (NG) included better crashworthiness with more extensive A-pillar reinforcements, stronger door sills and frames, standard torso/head side-airbags and Saab Active Head Restraints. Other notable changes were stronger AC compressor and a switch to an hydraulically operated convertible top instead of electric.

What kind of car is a 1999 Saab 9-5?

It’s definitely geared more towards fun or fast driving versus the old man Cadillac feel. The 1999 Saab 9-5 represents the first year of the newly designed relaunch. As you make your way into the newer models of this vehicle, you find many of the typical Saab ‘quirks’ erased and replaced with bland and (often times) faulty GM components.

What kind of gas mileage does a Saab get?

Fuel efficiency, especially with ethanol-free petrol, is top notch. With 93 octane gas untainted by corn byproducts, I could get upwards of 46 mpg and average between 38 and 41 on most highways. The car handles well and is engineered for the driver- all controls are centrally located (born from jets, remember).

Why does my Saab make a knocking noise?

Saab 9-3 2.0tHi Jeffrey,I have a knocking noise, drivers side front, when turning at low speed and when going over speed bumps, uneven roads. When stationary with steering at full lock when steering wheel is moved quickly left to right the knocking will correspond Submitted:5 years ago.

What’s the problem with my Saab 93 Convertible?

The windows go down to the set 20cm, the roof aperture within the boot compartment is not obstructed, nor is it hooked up. The handle at the front of the roof releases perfectly. The tailgate is also closed. The problem arises when you press the button to fold the roof down.

What makes the engine rattle in a Saab 9-3?

The exhaust system is one of the most common culprits that can make it sound like your Saab 9-3’s engine is rattling. While the exhaust is outside of the engine itself, it can often cause sounds that are confused for an internal engine rattle. Heat Shield The number one rattling culprit in your 9-3’s exhaust system is the heat shield.

What causes a head gasket to fail on a Saab 9-3?

Loss of Coolant – If your 9-3’s engine coolant level is going down, but there is no noticeable leak, it could be a sign that the head gasket has blown. While there are many reasons that your 9-3’s head gasket can fail, the most common ones have to do with the cooling system causing the engine to overheat.

What’s the price of a Saab 9-3 Aero convertible?

Autotrader has 93 Saab Convertibles for sale, including a Used 2002 Saab 9-3 SE Convertible, a Used 2003 Saab 9-3 SE Convertible, and a Used 2004 Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible ranging in price from $1,299 to $15,500.

A new forum for technical information for Saab’s first Sports Utility Vehicle: the new Saab 9-7X M04-. Performance Saab forum for all Saab models. Information and advice regarding the forthcoming SaabTrackday. This forum is for the posting and comment on Saab press releases and news stories.

Can you create a new post on saabscene?

Only SaabScene Staff can create new posts in this section. This forum is for the comment on Saab and motoring news stories that come to us on RSS feeds. Saabscene organised events around the UK, Europe & the world.

Why was GM’s reinvention of Saab failed?

The GM-Saab agreement is a high-profile example of an established small company losing its brand identity within an indifferent corporate structure. GM’s mismanagement of Saab is also emblematic of the internal turmoil within the corporation in the 20 years leading to its bankruptcy.

Is the Saab brand going to be revived?

If the sale goes through, it will be Saab’s fourth owner from a different country in five years. While a revived and successful Saab is an enticing fantasy for any car enthusiast, the possibility of Saab returning to the marketplace as a competitive builder of mass-produced cars dwindles each time the moribund brand is dragged through court.