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1999 Saab 9-3 Consumer Discussions

All Saab 9-3 Models

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Saab 9-3 Maintenance and Repair

  • Idle Air Controller Saab 9 E 1999

    Written by: me262 on Jun 12, 2011 8:39:33 PM

    I was sure glad to here some one who know some much about Saab's as you.I'm the first owner of this car all service has been dun at Saab.It's almost time for it's 150,000 mile service.but any way it runs great starts every time dashboard precheck always states checking then OK.But every now and then it all most stalls,and sometimes does.I have ran into this before and it's the throttle botty ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Real World MPG

  • saab 9-3 convert 1999 bad gas mileage by Ron

    Written by: rondo5 on Jul 23, 2010 3:49:04 AM

    I have the car about 3 years. It has 62k miles and is used less than 3k a year in mixed driving. It seems to run perfectly and has been tuned. It does have a very very slight hesitation on takeoff. It gets about 15 mpg since I got it. I've reset the sid many times. I use mid-grade fuel. Any ideas?

Keep Saab 9-3

  • Keep Saab 9-3

    Written by: alexandria07 on Mar 27, 2010 6:39:50 AM

    My husband and I are a devoted Saab family. We have a 2004 9-3 and a 1999 9-3 hatchback. The 2004 has 50k miles and the 1999 has 110k. We've been watching the news about Saab and our Saab mechanic says it will become increasingly difficult and expensive to get parts over the coming 5 years. We do not want to end up with 2 car payments at once in 2-3 ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Maintenance and Repair

  • Re: 1999 9-3 Rough idle and take off [bostondaphne]

    Written by: bluedogs on Sep 25, 2008 12:19:34 AM

    Hi, I suppose I had a moment of hope. False hope that is. The car still runs terribly. I had a former Saab tech look at it last week and he thinks I need a new Direct Ignition Cassette. Can't afford it right now, but he thinks that should do it. Another tech--non-Saab thinks I need to get the fuel pressure checked before doing anything... Please let me know if you ... Read More

  • Re: 1999 9-3 Rough idle and take off [bluedogs]

    Written by: waterdr on Jul 30, 2008 7:38:48 PM

    Whoever told you that has neither owned a Saab or worked on one - lol. On to serious business.....has the car been road-tested with a data-logger? Since you have already replaced the likely culprits, there are still a few more areas that you can check. Vacuum leak? It could also be a sensor problem. Thing is about sensors, a bad sensor can give you a "good" reading because the sensor is ... Read More

  • 1999 9-3 Rough idle and take off

    Written by: bluedogs on Jul 30, 2008 3:14:28 PM

    My '99 Saab 9-3 is giving me fits. I just bought it a week ago from an individual but didn't do my home work before buying. the car has 133K miles, but I have heard nothing but good things about Saabs, so I bought it. Problem is, the thing just does not idle smoothly and when I give it gas to take off it sputters and acts as if it will ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Real World MPG

  • Re: MPG [eurospecialist]

    Written by: waterdr on Dec 27, 2007 4:05:26 PM

    Glad you like the 9-5, but if you out running a V-8 Mustang, then they were not trying hard or it was really a V-6 made to look like a V-8. 1999 - 2004 Mustangs run 14.0 flat in the quarter out of the box. The 2005-2008 Stangs run mid 13's out of the box....both cars are sub 5.5 second cars 0-60 mph. The 95 Aero runs a 15.2 in the ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Reliability?

  • Re: Saab 9-3 Reliability? [wayland1985]

    Written by: baldnj on Oct 22, 2007 11:30:16 AM

    It unfortunately depends on the model year. The first year of the last generation 9-3 is 2003 (2003-2007). That year in particular had a number of electrical problems experienced by many owners, as this one did. Not all the problems always stay fixed, so there is risk involved in this purchase. As time passed the problems were fixed. My 2006 Saab 9-3 with luxury package and moon roof has had zero ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Sedan

  • advice about buying Saab

    Written by: jimmyf on Jun 2, 2007 5:57:41 PM

    Hi, I'm new here but have been reading about Saab cars both here and elsewhere. I'm in the market in the next 6-12 months for a new car and I generally like what I've read about Saab. Any suggestions for a new buyer as to what questions and considerations should be kept in mind about Saabs? I've been driving a Pontiac Bonneville SSEi (1995) and Olds Bravada (1999). The Pontiac's been ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Convertible

  • Re: 2003 Saab 9-3 Convertible [jeep53]

    Written by: jeep53 on Feb 27, 2007 2:42:44 PM

    Thanks for your info about the armrest you can purchase for the Saab 9-3 convertible. I looked at the site but it said for years 1999 thru 2002. I thought the '02's and '03's were the same interior but I might be wrong about that. I'm going to send the company a question about that. By the way, was it easy to intall and did it help much? Thanks again for ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Lease Questions

  • Re: 2006 Saab 9-3 Lease numbers [radioative2006]

    Written by: redrumkev on Aug 10, 2006 12:43:58 PM

    I am looking at this offer: http://www.suburbansaab.com/Specials-New.aspx for the 9-3 2.0T Aero, which is $240 a month with $1999 down and saab loyalty. This is for GMS (employee discount) eligable people only. My question: Is this a fair price for a lease. I have strong credit and do not want to put any money down, I was going to roll the $1999 and $1000 (loyalty) into the payment. So I figured ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Sedan

  • vent selector switch

    Written by: 99saab on Jul 23, 2006 3:38:27 PM

    So I just purchased a 1999 Saab 9-3 that is in excelent shape except for the vent selector switch, its constantly blowing air on the floor. I was wondering if you all had and suggestions on where the problem might be located, and or how to fix it? thanks drew

Saab 9-3 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

  • Deals on 20th Anniversary convertible?

    Written by: nickl1 on Jun 5, 2006 4:36:14 AM

    I am shopping for a 2006 Aero 20th Anniversary edition convertible (supposedly only 300 made). Are you finding any deals out there on these? One dealer is willing to give $3000 off on an automatic, another one $2750 off on a 6 speed stick. What is everyone else seeing compared to this? I still have some reservations about the reliability of the car. I've owned 5 Saabs over the years (1970 ... Read More

Saab 9-3 SportCombi

  • regarding reliability

    Written by: floppymoose on May 9, 2006 8:43:24 AM

    Part of the reliability issue is when in the lifetime of the model do you buy the car? When the 9-3 debuted in 1999, it had some problems. But by the time I bought a late '01 (May '01), most of the problems had been fixed. The only one that bit me was an ignition system failure, which happened under warrantee. Same for my '95 Jetta GLX. The VR6 was solid ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Sedan

  • HELP...

    Written by: beckie_12000 on Apr 17, 2006 7:34:53 PM

    I just bought a 1999 saab 9-3 on the 15th of April so two days ago... and. yesterday, the battery went dead so I jump started it and now my check engine light is on and won't go off... is there any connection of the two... The light wasn't on when I bought it.??? I really like the car it is awesome. is there anyway I can reset the light??? do ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Lease Questions

  • Re: 9-3 Sport [bberke]

    Written by: sah2 on Dec 27, 2005 2:51:06 PM

    Thank you for your reply. I am not being charged the acquisition fee. One note...Saab direct mailed a $1000 cash voucher in November to randomly selected households and GM direct mailed a $2000 voucher. This bonus cash is for purchase or lease. Since I did not receive this, I have contacted Saab Fin., Saab incentives, and Saab customer service. All have advised me to talk to the dealer and push them ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

  • 1999 9-3 value with a brand new dealer installed engine

    Written by: jay45 on Sep 4, 2005 10:39:31 AM

    Hey all, I have a 99 SAAB 9-3, 4 door hatchback coupe, with sports/turbo package (71K miles, leather interior, sun roof, low profile tires, overall good condition). Head gasket blew and subsequently the engine fouled and started to seize. It was covered by warantee although I had to fight for 2 months to get them to agree during which time I bought another vehicle. So now I have a car with ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Coupe (2002 and earlier)

  • Tires

    Written by: sastryb on Aug 27, 2005 4:51:06 PM

    Well, I have 80,000km on my 1999 Saab 9-3 and it's time to change the tires. Any reccomendations on what I should replace them with? I currently have Michelin Pilots 205 50 R16 (stock). I appreciate the feedback.

Saab 9-3 Sedan

  • Re: My View [jwnihill]

    Written by: doug900 on Aug 9, 2005 3:15:56 PM

    Maybe you should re-think your 9-3. I own a 1999 9-3 and it is definitely the best saab that I have ever owned! It absolutely flies and handles like a dream! I too have owned saabs all of my driving days. My first one was a 1967 3 cylinder 2-stroke with an oil injection tank. I have had the following- 72' 99, 80' 99, 85' 99, 91' 900 (my first new ... Read More

  • Re: To Mortymer and the turbodiesel [snaab1]

    Written by: saablcp on Mar 22, 2005 12:09:46 PM

    As far as top speed is concerned,I've yet to let my 2 year old Vector run out full but the stability at triple digit speeds is absolutely awesome.As for the claimed top speed,in 1999 two factory stock SAAB 900-SE 5-speed coupes with the 2.0 liter 185 H.P. engine ran at Talledega superspeedway in a high speed endurance test.Average speed for 25,000 miles (yes...TWENTY-FIVE THOUSAND MILES)including pit-stops was 140.709 M.P.H..In light of ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Coupe (2002 and earlier)

  • Time to trade

    Written by: sastryb on Mar 20, 2005 3:31:01 PM

    My 1999 Saab 9-3 is almost up on the extended warranty. I have 80,000km (50,000 miles) and have had minimal problems. In the past month, though, the head gasket needed replacing as well as the PCM. Thankfully, both repairs were covered under warranty, saving my a few thousand dollars. So now I am at the crossroads - do I get rid of the car, or should I hang on to it. ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Prices Paid and Buying Experience

  • loking to purchase a SAAB 93 convert. within the next few days....

    Written by: jenreb1 on Sep 24, 2004 8:21:48 AM

    Hello, I am looking to purchase a used saab 9 3 convert. a 1999 or 2000, I have driven a couple and one I heard noises in the front end (no thanks!) and the other they were literally asking me to GIVE them my trade-in (laughed and walked out)... I am going again today to look at another 1999 saab with 57,000 miles on it and all the options I would ... Read More

  • Saab 9-3

    Written by: gail1 on Jun 12, 2004 12:18:04 AM

    kbb retail value on the 1999 Saab 9-3 convertible I'm interested in is $17,105 and I'm getting $13,900 from a dealer in Ca. It has 39,250 miles.Ran a carfax and everything checks out OK. Any advice on what I should look out for or is this just a good deal? Also, any comments/ experiences with the 99 9-3 conv. would be appreciated. Thanks.

Saab European Delivery

  • Answer...

    Written by: GBrianK on Nov 13, 2003 10:21:14 PM

    By previous generation, I mean the 1999-2002 9-3's. As for Euro pickup, yes 100% finance is expected on the day you pick up the car UNLESS you finance thru SAAB Financial Services. If you chose SFSC, there is a "delayed" payment of sorts that SAAB has figured out. For greater detail you would have to contact them. Pickup in Sweden or purchase in the USA, either way you are getting a ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Sedan

  • URGENT - desperate 93 owner in a jam....

    Written by: ramonaledge on Oct 24, 2003 6:37:22 PM

    greetings, i own a 1999 saab 93. for the most part i like it a lot. BUT.... i let my dad drive it today and i told him that the only way to remove the key is to put it into reverse. well, he got home and put it into what he must have thought was reverse and he couldnt remove the key. so i went out to check it out ... Read More

  • expat0007

    Written by: arcman on Aug 7, 2003 12:42:31 PM

    The final price prior to the mfg. to dealer rebate was $33506. If you deduct the rebate ($3500) if came down to $30006. In this situation the employee price would be Employee Price $32,117.00 before the rebate.  employee discount is $1,712.00 off of the msrp I am sure you realize that the less options you select the lower the price. The beauty of this is that the dealer is required to ... Read More

  • Current lease rates

    Written by: goose1207 on Jul 16, 2003 1:01:24 PM

    What kind of lease rates are people getting on the 9-3 Linear or Arc? I know that SAAB has is running a national promotion of $299/mo w/ $1999 down for 36 mos, 12k miles/yr. I have seen a local dlr advertise a $239/mo lease rate, same terms except the d.p. is about $1500 I believe. Is this a realistic deal; has anyone gotten such a deal? Is the Onstar service thrown ... Read More

  • RE: Does GM have an "A" plan by richn2

    Written by: tgp1810 on Jun 22, 2003 12:30:54 PM

    GM currently has GMS (option 1) for its employees and GM Supplier discount for select GM suppliers. GM reciently changed the way the discounts work. Because of fraud in the past, GM now requires the SSN of all persons trying to use GMS pricing. GMS does not apply to Saab and Saturn pricing though. The discounts on these makes is slightly less than GMS. For Saab, the employee discount is equal ... Read More

  • HELP: a 9-3 or 9-5 ?... a 99 ' or 2000 ?

    Written by: maybesaab on Jun 4, 2003 6:42:49 PM

    decisions, decisions...after looking forever, I am closing in on purchasing used and need help....any opinions on getting a used 9-3 versus used 9-5...and whether 2000 year is superior to 1999 model year for either...I like look and smaller feel of 9-3 but have heard some people comment on how 9-5 is THE Saab to get....all opinions would be helpful, thanks...

  • Planning to buy a used 9-3 Convertible

    Written by: saabstory93 on Jun 1, 2003 1:35:15 PM

    I am planning on buying a used Saab SE convertible (what does 'SE' really mean?) and have been test driving 1999-2001 9-3 convertibles at several area Saab dealers. One thing I've noticed is that there appears to be a fair amount of vibration and shake that can be felt in the steering wheel when driving over all but smooth roads. One dealer told me it was probably due to bad wheels ... Read More

  • TXTOM

    Written by: GBrianK on May 6, 2003 2:52:19 PM

    -I would be curious to know anyones experience with Sewell Saab in DFW. They are the only Saab dealer in the metroplex. 1) Do they heavily discount? At the dallas car show, the salesman told me the 9-3s could be had for 21-22k (2003 model/non-demo) I've bought both of my Saabs from Sewell. They will deal. Actually, I have helped a few folks on the East coast get cars through Sewell ... Read More

  • Weigh in 2...

    Written by: GBrianK on May 3, 2003 7:34:02 AM

    Saablover2: I can understand your plight. I've have owned 2 Saabs in the last four years and the new 9-3 definitely has lost some of the Saab-esque. Plastic has cheapened, leather isn't as refined, engine torque has dropped, hatch is gone, Euro looks to the interior are gone....but look at the bright side! Parts are now readily available across the country (USA) for this car (most are interchangible with the CTS), ... Read More

  • 9-3 Issues

    Written by: mikerob on Apr 23, 2003 1:22:32 PM

    My 9-3 is one month old. First problem was "daytime running lights" which are actually full headlights. Could not get on a military base at night since could not turn them off. The dealer was able to "re-program" the computer so I could turn off the lights as per the book but now I can not use the fog lights. Anyone know of a way to fix?? Also, per the dealer, ... Read More

  • new saab 9-3 web page

    Written by: ramonaledge on Apr 3, 2003 3:40:05 AM

    greetings, my wife and i just bought a 1999 saab 9-3 se and we like it a lot. be sure to visit our web page that features a review, plans for aftermarket upgrades to the car as well as a forum where you can post and view saab 9-3 comments. here is the url: http://www.backcountryjournal.com/1999saab93review.htm thanks, and have a great day! mike

Saab 9-3 Coupe (2002 and earlier)

  • Buying a 1999 Saab 9-3. Any advice?

    Written by: ramonaledge on Mar 22, 2003 12:21:10 AM

    Greetings, I am in the process of buying a 1999 Saab 9-3 SE 4 door hatch back. Anyone have advice of what to look out for mechanically and otherwise? I remember in the 80's everyone talked about problems with turbo's and "Coking". Is this still an issue or has the problem been resolved? Any advice for turbo owners? Anyone who owns this car care to reply with likes/dislikes, etc? I value ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Sedan

  • Buying a 1999 Saab 9-3. Any advice?

    Written by: ramonaledge on Mar 22, 2003 12:18:10 AM

    Greetings, I am in the process of buying a 1999 Saab 9-3 SE 4 door hatch back. Anyone have advice of what to look out for mechanically and otherwise? I remember in the 80's everyone talked about problems with turbo's and "Coking". Is this still an issue or has the problem been resolved? Any advice for turbo owners? Anyone who owns this car care to reply with likes/dislikes, etc? I value ... Read More

  • What a deal!!

    Written by: bv73ms3 on Feb 28, 2003 8:49:07 PM

    Finally, after all that searching and haggling and headache, I got my Saab 9-3! Midnight Blue with charcoal leather, auto, Launch, Touring, Wheel packages, heated seats. MSRP with dest 33,580. Invoice 31,207. Cap cost 30,158.50. Doc fee $495. Reg fee $250 36 mos/12K. NO MONEY DOWN! Came out to $380 +tax! They included window tint, all weather floor mats and 3 free auto detailing plus any part/accessory I want in the ... Read More

  • '99 9-3 Convertible Engine Whine

    Written by: 99whine on Feb 17, 2003 6:01:37 PM

    In December, I purchased a 1999 9-3 Convertible with slightly less than 30,000 miles on it. From almost the day that I purchased it, I have noticed a whine/buzzing noise (more of a buzz, actually) from the engine compartment - sometimes during acceleration, sometimes during coasting, sometimes on cruise. It is almost never consistent, however, which is the maddening thing. I've never owned a turbo before. Is that "normal" for Saab ... Read More

  • Crash and Phones

    Written by: code7700 on Jan 3, 2003 9:43:43 PM

    That isn't too bad. I would have though that Saab parts would be insanely overpriced due to the low volume of cars on the road, but your costs do not seem out of line compared to the average car crash. On a separate topic, http://www.saabcatalog.com lists a "Phone Connector Harness" for $15 for both the 9-3 and 9-5 (1999 models and up). I assume this doesn't include the 2003 model because ... Read More

  • Re: Saab Sales

    Written by: mmeytin on Jan 3, 2003 2:07:55 PM

    This is a mixed report. Quarterly sales are up 4.9%, but yearly sales are up only 0.7% (to 37,805 units). These numbers are still below their sales for 1999 (39,541) and 2000(39,479). Of course, the redesigned 9-3 was only on sale for less than a full quarter, so I think there's a potential (particularly with Arc and Vector coming in Spring) that it will pull the sales numbers for 2003. Whether ... Read More

  • Extended Warranty

    Written by: sastryb on Dec 23, 2002 3:22:11 PM

    I am at a fork in the road! My 1999 Saab 9-3 is about 3.5 years old and I have to decide whether to buy the extended warranty from Saab or not. My car has been regularly serviced, without any major problems. Only recurring issue is the power antenna (I am on my third one!). As I travel a lot for work, my car will have only 50000km (~31000 miles) when ... Read More

  • Review of 9-3 Two Days After Delivery

    Written by: mooselook on Nov 17, 2002 1:32:05 PM

    I picked up my new Laser Red 2003 9-3 Friday afternoon. Vehicle is equipped with Launch, Touring Package, heated (grey leather) seats and 16 in. wheels. As all reviews are somewhat subjective, FYI, my point of reference is my prior vehicle, a 1999 Audi A-4 2.8L 6Cyl Quattro. First impression upon seeing car waiting for me at dealership is that the 9-3 in Laser Red really kicks Butt! What a great ... Read More

  • fedlawnman

    Written by: oldsman01 on Nov 3, 2002 5:30:04 PM

    I'd add the Cadillac CTS to that list as well. It is one very nice driving car. A bit more expensive than the 9-3 when you start adding options, but still less expensice than a 330 or well equipped A4. Today's paper had an ad for the 9-3 and it said starting at $26,5xx or $359 a month lease. The lease details were 48 months and $1999 down. That is about ... Read More

  • Wanna Be Saab Owner

    Written by: artstein on Sep 23, 2002 9:50:31 AM

    I am considering a used 1999 9-3 SE. I was also looking at the Audi A4 1.8T but had some reliability concerns after the warrany expires. Does anyone own a 9-3 and have an opinion on the Saab verses the Audi? I really like the looks of the Saab and have always wanted to own one. Comments appreciated. Thanks

Saab 9-3 Coupe (2002 and earlier)

  • Differences Between 1999 and 2000 Saab 9-3

    Written by: mmoskoitz on Sep 12, 2002 10:37:07 AM

    NAT15, I looked at several used 9-3 base and SE in March 2002 and the quality varied greatly. I then got distracted with a deal, $16,500, on a 1999 9-5SE with 51,000 miles. The car was looked great until I did a cold start and the car smoked for five minutes. The dealer said, "We can't find a problem and the smoke is within spec." Yeah, right. Labor day weekend I ... Read More

  • Differences between 1999 and 2000 Saab 9-3

    Written by: nat15 on Aug 24, 2002 7:59:53 AM

    I've never owned a Saab yet am now seriously considering buying either a 1999 or 2000 9-3. Obviously the 1999 is a lot cheaper (about 25% less than the 2000 model), however, I'm wondering about the reliability and quality difference between the two model years. I know that 1999 was the first year of the 9-3 and heard that it had some snags that were worked out by 2000. Is this ... Read More

2003 Saab 9-3

  • kevin 111

    Written by: dl7265 on Aug 13, 2002 11:07:59 PM

    i bought a early 1999 production 3er and it has been more reliable if you will than any japanese product ive owned,i know most avoid a 1st year production but in my case there have actually been more issues reported with 2000-2001 models. i belive starting with the platform the new 9 3 will prove to be much more substantial.As they point out the question is has too much Saab been ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Sedan

  • Is a 9-3 reliable?

    Written by: newc320 on Aug 12, 2002 7:29:38 AM

    I am thinking to buy a 1999 9-3 turbo for my daily commute. I have been driving a 1992 Toyota Camry for the last ten years and have more than 201K on it. Though Camry is such a reliable car, I don't want to buy another Camry. Saab is my favor for my next car. Does 9-3 a reliable car? Is it expensive to keep? Thanks in advance for any comments. ... Read More

  • help, saab 9-3 convertible what do you think ?

    Written by: mcckloek on May 8, 2002 7:46:04 PM

    I am looking at a Saab 1999 convertible (manual transmission) and like the price and drive.Is this a safe reliable car? Does it have any cons?

  • Eckdar

    Written by: GBrianK on Apr 25, 2002 8:21:47 AM

    GM has helped make some changes.... I believe the difference you are noticing is not in the transmission, but in the T-7 control module. Saab has made some major modifications since the T-5 (what you had in your 1999 9-3). If you will notice, the fuel economy has come up about four to five miles per gallon on the highway and two or three in the city. Tires are the second ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Coupe (2002 and earlier)

  • vigorous

    Written by: nyccarguy on Apr 25, 2002 6:36:48 AM

    "And for those owners switching off Saab for some other car like Prelude; goodbye and happy motoring. Chances are, you don't live close to the mountains like I do. Chances are, you don't care if your car fails to breath properly (like a Saab Turbo does) at high altitude. See you at Pike's Peak or like altitudes maybe." I can't help but take that remark as somewhat of a personal attack. ... Read More

  • to spirder6

    Written by: vigorous on Apr 22, 2002 4:59:54 PM

    This one's for you: http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/uk/newsid_1470000/1470045.stm [note that this is for the 1999 - a two year old car at the time of the test.] Consumers probably withholds a recommendation as well based on the fact that a new chassis for the Saab is due in 2003. Why would they recommend a car whose body style is just about to change? OTOH, Saab is dropping the hatch from the 9-3 lineup for ... Read More

  • snaab93se1

    Written by: exlegend on Apr 8, 2002 8:43:05 PM

    Sorry to hear about all of your problems. My wife just picked up an '02 9-3SE Saturday and loves it. Why not? All of 100 miles on it so far! I'll admit this is the first car I've ever LEASED, having owned Acuras for the past 15 years, and while they've become somewhat bland, still exhibit near bullet-proof reliability. Hopefully, the problems have been confined to the 1999 through 2001 models, ... Read More

  • Does Saab hold up?

    Written by: spider6 on Apr 22, 2002 9:15:34 AM

    Ok, ok thanks for the answers. I understand on the opinion on Edmund's Townhall is valuable stuff when considering purchasing a new car. I also understand people tend to voice dissatisfaction over satisfaction more. So does this mean that the complains on this 9-3 represents a small number of people over all? Also, I noticed that most of the people here who are not happy with their Saabs or 9-3s are ... Read More

Mercedes-Benz C230 vs. Saab 9-3

  • Beg to differ

    Written by: huntzinger on Apr 17, 2002 6:44:25 AM

    I disagree with the poster who says the 900 and the 9-3 are the same car and unreliable. Half of my 900's problems were in the manual transmission. If this gearbox was changed between the 900 and 9-3, please state what production year this happened and what the specifics were. And FWIW, attitude in the dealership's service department is model independent. I have a 9-3. Best car I ever owned. I ... Read More

  • Saab reliabilty

    Written by: vigorous on Apr 16, 2002 5:08:26 PM

    I disagree with the poster who says the 900 and the 9-3 are the same car and unreliable. I have a 9-3. Best car I ever owned. And the UK Consumers Association ranked the two-year old 9-3 (1999) most reliable tied with three others, none of which was a Mercedes. http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/uk/newsid_1470000/1470045.stm The people who have compared the two in the Saabnet board consider the Merc dull. A very nice car and ... Read More

Saab 9-3 Coupe (2002 and earlier)

  • after 45K miles

    Written by: vigorous on Apr 10, 2002 7:56:12 PM

    This black, Toyota-box automatic sunroofed, leathered 1999 9-3 is by far the _best car_ I have ever owned. Fast, classy-looking, comfortable, safe and RELIABLE, the UK AutoClub placed the '99 9-3 FIRST, tied with three Japanese cars in reliability with zero (0) faults found after two ((2) years. Faults on ours included (1) the heaterbox, replaced under warranty and (2) a bushings squeak in v cold weather from startup lasting 10 ... Read More

  • RE: Does your $259/month ($314 if you don't put a 1999 cap cost reduction) include taxes?

    Written by: agentzuk on Mar 13, 2002 1:49:25 PM

    Nope, that is the base rent. I was too mad to check what the tax would be if rolled into the payment. If I chose to pay the tax up front it was around $800 plus $100 or so for tags/title, etc. (new Ohio laws require tax up front OR rolled into the lease with interest! - yuk). The kid from the dealer called me back to see if I wanted ... Read More

  • Aqusition Fees

    Written by: nyccarguy on Mar 13, 2002 6:15:19 AM

    They're kosher on a lease. $495 seems normal. It is a BS fee charged by the bank, but you have to pay it. The $300 termination fee I'm not sure about. I know my friend has a termination fee on his Audi, but I've got a 2000 Saab 9-3 and there is no termination fee. Does your $259/month ($314 if you don't put a 1999 cap cost reduction) include taxes?

  • Fees, fees, fees and fees...

    Written by: agentzuk on Mar 12, 2002 10:25:16 PM

    Cleveland 2002 9-3 5 speed base lease (w/ heated seats and black paint, no premium pckg): $259 x 36 mos, $1999 down + fees. Ok, sounds good. WHY no wiggle room on the fees? $495 acquisition fee, and $300+ termination fee. Why pay Saab these ridiculous bank fees. WHY ARE THESE FEES "NON-NEGOTIABLE"? Also, GM is obviously kicking back something to the dealers for these cheap lease deals. How much? After ... Read More

  • Saab 93 "Issues"

    Written by: jas28 on Jan 28, 2002 9:12:57 AM

    I've leased a 1999 9-3 base since July 2000 - this will be my last Saab. (I'm counting down the days to my 7/23/02 lease expiration date!) I've literally had as many problems covered under warranty as months that I've owned the car. Problem have included side airbags, driver's seat (replaced twice), radio (replaced 3 times, antenna replaced too), air conditioner controls replaced twice, air conditioner module replaced once, power lock ... Read More

  • new saab owner

    Written by: pocmonster on Dec 31, 2001 12:37:28 PM

    As a holiday present, this 19-year-old here got a Laser Red 1999 Saab 9-3. I believe the only option on it is the automatic transmission. Otherwise it has a grey cloth interior, CD player, and heated seats. I need to get a new set of tires for it, and also have the ventilation system checked out. It seems as if the vent direction is stuck in one setting. The knob turns ... Read More

  • clutches...jonw2

    Written by: huntzinger on Sep 20, 2001 10:44:29 AM

    IMO, the '87 clutch system is apparently a more robust design than what's in the 94- NG's. But note that I said "system". In neither of my Saab clutch failures was the problem attributable to the clutch's pressure plate. Nor to User habits/driving styles. Both times, it was a binding and seizing in the actuation system, most likely attributable to a defective bearing or bushing design. I believe that I mentioned ... Read More

  • boofpa

    Written by: GBrianK on Sep 20, 2001 10:30:49 AM

    Yeah, I traded in my Honda Accord for my first Saab. What a difference! Honda's are definitely reliable, but sure are boring. For the duration of ownership of my 1999 Saab 9-3, I had only two problems with the car (both of which were not defects, but damage caused by external variables). First, my antenna was bent by the car wash attendant. He was poking along listening to Tejano music while ... Read More

  • 9-3 advice

    Written by: boofpa on Sep 18, 2001 7:15:46 PM

    I am new to the Saab experience and am wondering about reliability. I am interested in replacing my Honda Accord EX with something fun to drive. I had a great test drive and am seriously considering a purchase of a used (1999) 9-3 with manual transmission. The Honda had bullet proof reliability, but boy was it boring! Loved the feel of the 9-3 and all of its great engineering. Our other ... Read More

  • New 9-3 SE

    Written by: GBrianK on Sep 15, 2001 12:41:38 PM

    Hey fellow Saabers! I just traded out my 1999 9-3 SE auto for a silver 2001 9-3 SE manual...What a difference!!! I never really appreciated manual until now! The power difference is amazing not to mention the increase in fuel economy.... I should have gotten manual before, but I guess I needed to learn from my mistake. I was also how amazed at how much the dealer got for my car. ... Read More

  • SAAB Reliability re: 118

    Written by: marshal1 on May 21, 2001 4:37:10 PM

    For anyone that looks at Consumer Reports regarding reliabilty, the Saab 9-3 is rated as having barely average reliability since 1999 and far below average reliability prior to that. Sadly, those are the facts. As for handling, I totally agree that the Saabs are far superior to an Avalon or other similar vehicle.

  • Rebate and Avalon

    Written by: ryman2 on May 21, 2001 1:45:06 PM

    Rebate of 4300 available on Base Saab 9-3 until the end of May according to International Saab in Falls Church, VA. You will not see it listed anywhere b/c it is a factory to dealer incentive- you have to find out about it from sites like this one or Edmunds or some other auto pricing site. Avalon- Can you even compare it to a Saab? If you were looking at a ... Read More

  • VOB lccalvert 1999

    Written by: ryman2 on Apr 20, 2001 1:13:43 PM

    VOB: Thanks for info. I live in DC area also and have been regularly checking VOB and International Saab in Falls Church to keep tabs on inventory. We are looking to buy in Sept/Oct but might consider earlier if great deal. Let me know if they are willing to do SE for around 28,000 and if that includes 0% financing. If you can get that it sounds awesome. I am keeping ... Read More

  • VOB

    Written by: lccalvert_1999 on Apr 17, 2001 12:31:21 PM

    VOB just got a brand new shipment in. I asked if they could go to invoice like the other SAAB dealers in the market. He said they are bargaining and will basically do anything but lose money to make a deal. His name is Dennis Hughes at VOB. Tell him I referred you, and maybe he will give us both a good deal. I plan on going this weekend to check ... Read More

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