1999-2002 Saab 9-3: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1999-2002 Saab 9-3 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration
- Cargo room (except convertible)
- Brake performance
- Rear-seat room/comfort (convertible)
Cons
- Build quality (convertible)
- Rear-seat entry/exit (except 4-dr)
- Turbo-engine performance
- Rear visibility
Vehicle Highlights
Saab's updated compact, near-luxury 900 series was offered with a new name for 1999. The new front-drive 9-3 series came as a 4-door hatchback or a convertible in base and plusher SE trim, accompanied by a base 2-door hatchback. All models used turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines, with a five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic. With manual shift, SE models had a 200-horsepower engine, while others were rated 185 hp. Manual-transmission models had a numerically higher axle ratio for stronger standing-start acceleration. Standard safety features included antilock braking, front side airbags, and Saab's front Active Head Restraints--claimed to minimize whiplash injury. convertibles had a power top with glass rear window and defroster. During the initial model year, a high-performance Viggen 2-door hatchback joined the lineup, with a 225-hp, 2.3-liter turbocharged engine (manual shift only).
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Saab 9-3 SE 4-dr hatchback Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 7 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 58 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1999-2002 Saab 9-3. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1999-2002 Saab 9-3.
Year to Year Changes
2000 Saab 9-3:
Because General Motors owned Saab's car-making division, GM's OnStar satellite-based assistance system became available in 9-3 models. Four-door hatchback and convertible versions of the high-performance Viggen joined the 2-door hatchback body style. SE editions now had the previously optional 2.0 High Output Engine, which got a boost from 200 to 205 horsepower. The Viggen engine also gained 5 hp. All SE models got new lower-body skirts, the 4-door added a special sport suspension, and a standard rear spoiler went on the convertible.
2001 Saab 9-3:
Traction control and GM's OnStar system became standard this year. The lineup included base 2- and 4-door hatchbacks, uplevel SE 4-door and convertible, and the high-performance Viggen in three body styles. The base-model convertible was dropped. "Generation 2.6" OnStar added a voice-activated Internet connection to access web-based information, as well as voice-operated phone and e-mail functions. Traction control was designed to apply brakes and retard the throttle to restore traction when a front wheel began to slip.
2002 Saab 9-3:
The 185-hp base-level models were gone from Saab's "junior" line for 2002. 9-3 was redesigned for '03.
Our road test for the 1999-2002 Saab 9-3 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1999-2002 Saab 9-3 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1999-2002 Saab 9-3 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Compact Saabs deliver sporty driving in a space-efficient, if somewhat quirky, package. Overall acceleration is good. Base models are responsive but calm. A manual-transmission base car accelerated to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, and averaged 19.4 mpg even in hard driving. High Output models are slightly faster. A 4-door averaged 21.3 mpg. Viggens react with serious spirit. On the downside, the turbocharger does not yield extra power until the engine reaches 3000 rpm or so, and "turbo lag" (delay after flooring the throttle) makes smooth driving difficult. Unruly steering-wheel tug occurs when pushed hard, too, unless front wheels are pointed dead-ahead. Handling is sporty, responsive, and predictable, with good cornering grip. SE models (and Viggens) ride quite stiffly. High-performance tires transmit a lot of irritating thump and jiggle on small, sharp bumps. Base models have softer tires and should be noticeably more compliant and comfortable on any road. Braking is swift and powerful. Relatively narrow and tall, hatchbacks have fairly ample space for five, plus cargo room that rivals a wagon. Convertibles seat only four, with very limited rear leg room. Rear visibility is so-so in hatchbacks and awful in top-up convertibles. Gauges and controls are well-located. The floor-mounted ignition switch is a longtime Saab hallmark. Sadly, so is the SE's obstinate automatic climate-control system. Detail finish is good and materials are classy. A test convertible suffered excessive body flex over bumps, but other Saabs have felt rigid and mostly rattle-free.
Value for the Money
All models have their charms, but are compromised by turbo-engine performance. Saab loyalists are likely to love the quirky 9-3, but a Volvo S70 sedan or V70 wagon might be a more prudent choice for near-luxury motoring in the Swedish mode.
All models have their charms, but are compromised by turbo-engine performance. Saab loyalists are likely to love the quirky 9-3, but a Volvo S70 sedan or V70 wagon might be a more prudent choice for near-luxury motoring in the Swedish mode.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Saab 9-3 SE 4-dr hatchback Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 7 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 58 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Saab 9-3 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Saab 9-3 .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
The A/C compressor may fail to engage or fail to disengage due to a faulty thermo contact, which is now available separately from the compressor. (1999-03)
Automatic transmission:
A recall was issued to replace the shift-lock solenoid that prevented the transmission from shifting out of park. (1999)
Brakes:
If the brake-fluid reservoir cap is not installed properly, fluid can be sucked out of the reservoir through the cap's check valve. (1999-01)
Climate control:
There were several problems with the HVAC controls ranging from stiff controls to ticking motors to loose knobs and broken spindles. New parts were being installed under warranty. (1999)
Oil consumption:
A banjo bolt in the crankcase ventilation system should be replaced to prevent oil from possibly entering the combustion chamber (causing emissions) or starving the turbo bearing. (1999)
Wipers:
The rear wiper may get loose or fall off unless thread-locking compound is applied to the hold-down nut. (1999)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $775 |
| Alternator | $410 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,100 |
| Brakes | $745 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $830 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,290 |
| Exhaust System | $775 |
| Radiator | $700 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,455 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $655 |
Our price chart for this generation Saab 9-3 details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2002 | |||
| 9-3 Convertible | $8,000-9,000 | $7,200-8,100 | $4,100-4,600 |
| 9-3 SE | $6,300-7,000 | $5,500-6,200 | $2,800-3,100 |
| 9-3 Viggen | $9,200-10,200 | $8,300-9,200 | $4,800-5,300 |
| Viggen Convertible | $10,800-12,000 | $9,700-10,800 | $5,800-6,500 |
| 2001 | |||
| 9-3 Convertible | $7,000-7,900 | $6,200-7,000 | $3,300-3,700 |
| 9-3 SE | $5,500-6,200 | $4,700-5,300 | $2,300-2,500 |
| 9-3 Viggen | $8,000-9,000 | $7,200-8,100 | $4,100-4,600 |
| 9-3 hatchback | $4,300-5,000 | $3,600-4,200 | $1,500-1,700 |
| Viggen Convertible | $9,500-10,500 | $8,600-9,500 | $4,900-5,500 |
| 2000 | |||
| 9-3 Convertible | $5,900-6,600 | $5,100-5,700 | $2,500-2,800 |
| 9-3 SE | $4,700-5,400 | $3,900-4,500 | $1,800-2,100 |
| 9-3 Viggen | $7,000-7,800 | $6,200-6,900 | $3,300-3,700 |
| 9-3 hatchback | $3,700-4,400 | $3,000-3,600 | $1,100-1,300 |
| Viggen Convertible | $8,200-9,200 | $7,400-8,300 | $4,200-4,700 |
| 1999 | |||
| 9-3 Convertible | $5,300-6,000 | $4,600-5,200 | $2,200-2,500 |
| 9-3 SE hatchback | $4,000-4,700 | $3,300-3,900 | $1,300-1,500 |
| 9-3 Viggen | $6,200-7,000 | $5,400-6,100 | $2,700-3,000 |
| 9-3 hatchback | $3,300-3,900 | $2,600-3,100 | $800-1,000 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Saab 9-3 include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 2-door hatchback | 4-door hatchback |
| Wheelbase, in. | 102.6 | 102.6 | 102.6 |
| Overall Length, in. | 182.2 | 182.2 | 182.2 |
| Overall Width, in. | 67.4 | 67.4 | 67.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.0 | 56.2 | 56.2 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3140 | 2990 | 3040 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 28.3 | 46.0 | 46.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.9 | 16.9 | 16.9 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.9 | 39.3 | 39.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.3 | 42.3 | 42.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.9 | 37.9 | 37.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 33.0 | 34.1 | 34.1 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Base engine was a 185-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, while the SE got a High Output 200-horsepower version (205 hp in 2000). Viggens benefited from a 2.3-liter turbo four that produced 225-230 hp. Viggens came only with 5-speed manual shift, but other models could have an optional 4-speed automatic transmission. The 185-hp 4 cyl was gone from the lineup for 2002.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | 2.0 / 121 | 200-205 | 209 | 5-speed manual: 20/27 | 5-speed manual: 21.3 |
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | 2.3 / 140 | 225-230 | 258 | 5-speed manual: 19/28 | 5-speed manual: -- |
| Turbocharged dohc I4 | 2.0 / 121 | 185 | 194 | 5-speed manual: 19/27 4-speed automatic: 19/25 |
5-speed manual: 19.4 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Sweden
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Saab 9-3 include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1999-2002 Saab 9-3 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1999 w/manual front seats, made March 4 - October 17, 1998:
Failure of "Easy Entry" cable in front manual seats can cause seat fore/aft adjustable mechanism to be unlocked, reducing the restraint capability of the safetybelts in a crash.
2000 9-3 convertibles:
The fuel pump retaining tabs holding the fuel lines were damaged during production. Over time, this could cause the fuel lines to loosen from the pump resulting in fuel leakage. Dealers will install a bracket that will secure the fuel lines to the fuel pump.
2000-02 w/B205/B235 four-cylinder or B308 six-cylinder engine:
Overheating and burnout of isolated gated bipolar transistor may occur, most often at engine start-up.
2001:
Airbag alert labels may not be permanently affixed.
2001-02 Sedan and Convertible:
Some fuel pump retaining tabs were damaged during production; over time, fuel lines could loosen from pump, resulting in leakage.
2002:
A loose tie rod could result in a sudden reduction or total loss of steering control.
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