2003-2008 Saab 9-3: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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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. (2003)
Cold-starting problems:
Cars equipped with an engine heater may be hard to start when the heater runs but the temperature is at or above freezing (23 degrees F) requiring reprogramming of the engine control computer. (2003)
Ignition switch:
The key will not come out of the ignition if it is turned off while the vehicle is still moving. (2006)
Manual transmission:
Difficulty shifting manual transmission up or down into 2nd gear requires adjustment to the shifter mechanism. (2003)
None:
Rough idle and/or low engine speed may be due to the brake booster vacuum hose coming loose from the intake manifold. (2006)
Oil leak:
Oil leaks from the timing cover, valve cover or main seal due to excessive crankcase pressure require installation of ventilation kit. (2003)
Steering noise:
Snapping or popping noise from steering shaft requires removal and reinstallation of steering shaft joints using thread locking compound on bolts. (2003)
Suspension noise:
Banging from front suspension over bumps may be due to faulty thrust bearing on the tops of the MacPherson struts. (2006)
Wheels:
A campaign to replace the right-front wheel sensor harness was conducted to prevent corrosion of the connector. (2006)
Windows:
Side windows may be noisy, may go up slowly or not at all, may leak in rain or carwash because window support bar is weak and gets twisted or breaks. (2003)
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 | $550 |
| Alternator | $440 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $4,500 |
| Brakes | $370 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $620 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,730 |
| Exhaust System | $505 |
| Radiator | $680 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $3,110 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $670 |
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