Used 2002 Saab 9-3 Hatchback Consumer Reviews
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The best used car you can get for your money.
I started with saab 10 years ago, bought the 1999 model but has tons of issue. Sold it cheap and I ended up with the 2002 model se at 80K miles. Nowthe car has 120K and had no problems at all. It's all been fun with this car...205 hp and gets 30mpg hwy miles driving 65-70 mph. So my conclusion to new buyer out there, research the history of the car, if the car has always used synthetic oil and been taken care of well, chances are you'll have a good reliable car...but if anything points out that this car has not been care well then buyer's beware. NEVER Buy this car if you are going to treat it like a Honda or Toyota. You'll reap what you sow.
Been great
Today I hit 120,000 on my Saab. My repairs have totaled less than $1000; brakes, temp gauge sensor, mass airflow sensor. Love: acceleration, fuel economy, handling in snow/ice, cargo room. Dislike: rear passenger room, cupholders, pedal placement (too close together for my clodhoppers). Also dislike having to move the front seats up to fold the rear seats flat.
- SE ConvertibleMSRP: $4,995676 mi away
- SE ConvertibleMSRP: $10,935724 mi away
- SE ConvertibleMSRP: $9,450794 mi away
Steel Gray Hunchback
My wife called it a hunchback, so it is my Steel Gray Hunchback. Was looking around for another car actually, and test drove it, didn't feel right, and the one I wanted was sold. But I saw this one, and it had tint and a built in alarm. I was looking for utility, such as a hatchback to lug things around. 4 doors too. I also required better gas mileage since gas prices were sky rocketing. Also, power with torque to go up hills and turns. Alas, I test drove this 2002 Saab 9-3 SE: has leather seats, and more power than normal. It is a 4cylinder turbo auto, more economical than a 6cyl, with just as much power because of the turbo. Driving it ever since and my wife and I love it.
Never Again Will I Buy a Saab!
My car has only 54,000 miles and the engine is shot. It fell victim to the "Saab oil sludge problem" that so many other 9-3's and 9-5's from this era have succumbed to (Google "Saab oil sludge" and read all about it). Long story short, Saab admitted the oil sludge accumulation is due to an engine defect, NOT consumer negligence, and they "extended coverage" on '99-'03 9-3's and 9-5's. What they don't tell you is that you're not eligible for coverage unless you can produce oil change receipts for the entire life of the car. So for those, like myself, who bought their car used, you're essentially fresh out of luck. It's either pony up $6000 for a new engine or scrap it for parts.
So much potential but alas !!
2002 9-3 SE auto hatch with 125K. Loads of power in a practical package - especially in Sport mode. Best driver's seat ever! Would be a keeper but for constant repairs (antenna mast; squeaky brakes; center exhaust pipe; shocks; CPS; alternator; etc etc) and premium gas! Thank goodness the new engine cassette was a recall! Too bad, I guess they were right when they said SAAB stands for Swedish Auto Always Broken. 2009 Mazda 6 or Accord will take the 9-3's place in the garage. Sushi for herring I guess.
Saab is my favorite
I've owned about 4 9-3s, as I move a lot, and will sell my car before every move. I always buy these. They are one hundred percent reliable for me, and they're fast. Also, I drove my most recent 2002 9-3 from WA to ID and back, and I got 35mpg on the highway for real, no joke!!! So I think they should change the average fuel economy on here. You only get 25 mpg (lowest I've seen) when you're driving in city, using the turbo all day. I give this car an over all 9 out of 10. The only brand I like better then Saab is Lexus!
Saab 2002 vintage
The car is dependable and solid. The body style on the 2002 93 SE is vintage. This car with 30200 miles on it and Saab Certified is like driving a new car. I also had replaced all four tires in 6/2006 with factory Pirellis since I had basically just bought the car out of my lease agreement and would be driving it a while. Prior to purchase from my lease the dealership also did all the 30k service at about 21k miles. The 2002 93 SE has every available option one could ask for including the cold weather package and traction control. The traction control is necessary due to the high performance tires.
We'll miss you when you're gone!
The most important selling point for the 9-3 is its personality (i.e, quirkiness). The handling is very good on my new 9-3 SE with excellent steering and lots of power from the turbo 2.0 liter engine(although the secret is to click on the "sport" button which gives added power.) The 9-3 excels in terms of comfort as the Saab seats are outstanding and the controls are easy to see, reach and understand.
**CAR IS A SOUR LEMON**
I purchased my '02 Saab 9-3 used and right out the car lot, it was problem after problem. It started with having to get the front right wheel bearing fixed, then the right headlight went out twice, shortly after I had to get the heating coil fixed (cold air blowing), then the air stopped working. Car stopped 3 months later on the expressway (found out I needed another fuel pump) got it fixed, 3 months later, I had to replace the Starter, left wheel bearing, control arm & ball joints on drivers side, CV Shaft, Spring Coil Sensor for Check Engine light, Brake Pads & Rotors, but the biggest problem is a Starting Issue. The car will randomly NOT start for about 15 minutes. No one knows why:(
9-3 turbo hatch, irresistible
I had one of these for 4 years. Bought it at 45k miles when it was 4 years old. It had all the reliability issues everyone talks about, including the sump oil problem. It was totaled last month when someone hit it while it was parked. I looked at other cars, and ended up buying the exact same car again (except stick instead of auto), now at 80k miles. They're as spacious as a small wagon, very quick and great handling, heated leather seats, premium sound, climate control, sunroof, power everything, 30+ mpg, and the style of a classic suit from a vintage store. All for under $6,000. Irresistible.
Best car ever own
This is been a very reliable car for me regular maintenance and your good to go.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
She keeps on going and going...
I have 75,000 miles on my 2002 Saab and the past 20,000 have been the most exciting... with the stainless steel exhaust system, K&N filter and chip for the engine, my Saab is as fast as anything that I've driven, and she gets 35 mpg almost all of the time. Drop her into second and floor it? Woosh!
Disappointed
Purchased this used w/only 32K (one owner vehicle myself being second) since I have had this vehicle I have had new brakes and rotors cut, fuel pump fixed, transmission flushed(that was at 50 k miles). This tops it all, I woke up at 1:30 am saw strange lights coming from my driveway to discover the hazards were flashing. I tried everything and could not shut them off, looked for fuses etc.. had to take it to a SAAB recommended mechanic near my home and his comments the SAAB is the worst car for the money and be prepared to continually pay for repairs... the repair cost was unbelievable. The problem electrical and the computer board....
The key just flies into the ignition
For years I have been searching for an automobile that was as much fun to drive as my first BMW2002 in 1967. I tested the new 325 and the Audi and the 9-3. Two years and over 50,000 miles later I am still excited driving my 9-3!
The non-conformist
Such a neat car. Despite being replaced in 2003 by a newer model, this generation of the 9-3 still turns heads (especially after a wash and wax). Build quality is very good, and the cabin materials are all high quality. Interior controls are a model of Swedish design efficiency. Friends with an Audi and a BMW say the Saab's leather is much better than what they have in their vehicles. Torque steer is obvious under hard acceleration from a stop, but on the highway, this car can fly. Midrange passing power is awesome. Braking is equally good. Reliability has been good - only a few problems which were covered under warranty. This car has never left me stranded.
Design Perfection - Handles like new
Just purchased a mint condition used 2002 9-3SE. This is an amazing car. While it is small and handles nimbly it has generous room for 4 plus the huge hatch area. Mileage so far has been mid-30s mpg. Amazing that they could build a fast and efficient car 8 years ago. At 205 hp this car has as almost the same power as my 2001 Boxster.
Fun car with lots of storage
I've owned this Saab for 2 and a half years. Purchased it used with 58k miles. It will reach 90k soon. Very fun to drive. Turbo lag is minimal. Feels taut at high speeds, nice steering feedback. But wait, this is a family car. The trunk is huge for strollers, golf clubs and oversized stuffed animals from the in-laws. Pulled the hatch cover off recently and packed it to the window for a week long trip to the mountains. It is a quirky Euro car though. Strange issues like Purge Valve throwing CEL codes, bad crank position sensor stranding my wife when the engine compartment got hot (would not start, the fix was to squirt cold water at it). Find yourself a Saab specialist you can trust.
Expected more...
i was sorely surprised at the poor quality of my '02 Saab 93, which i leased new. i expected much more of a $30,000 "luxury car". I've had this car back to the dealer an average of once every couple months for constant nagging quality problems. Door handle snapped off, sunroof frame cracked when opening, spoiler popped off, etc. etc, etc. Not to mention the annoying rattles, creaks, & vibrations. My daughters '99 Cavalier rides more quietly. Really disappointed... I'll never own another one.
A fun car to drive!
This car is just too much fun. I love it ability to accelerate from a high speed to an even higher speed!! :o) I'm going to get a lot of speeding tickets with this baby!
Great Engine / so so suspension
I'm 2.5 years into my 3 year lease. Overall, I think this car is a good value compared to its price range like v6 Accords and Camrys. Very versatile with the hatch. Initial quality was good and I've had no major maintenance issues. The power is great when at full boost in 2nd and 3rd gear. Torque steer, understeer, excessive body lean, and a lack of chassis rigidity hamper this car.
2002 SAAB 9-3
A good, reliable car all around. However, a very creaky, noisy car. It sounds like I'm driving a taxi cab. Lots of rattles. Had to take the car in to the dealership several times to fix a rattle in the back seat. Finally they were able to fix it after the third try. Turned out it was a bolt that the factory hadn't tightened. Performance wise it's been great. However, already had to replace my breaks two years into my lease. Love the Turbo button. I had a Cadillac before and the Saab, though premium, definitely doesn't have the bells and whistles the Cadillac had.
Onstar problems
I am having a problem with cross talk between the onstar system and the electrical components in the car (that's what the dealer has said). My problem is not severe but a friend has such a severe problem that the car will not start. This problem is surprising since GM has been installing onstar on it's vehicles for many years.
Shake, Rattle, & Knocks
While I thoroughly enjoy the ride and performance, I am sorely disappointed in the interior fit and finish. From delivery, we have had seriously annoying interior clunks, rattles and the like. This car has made more noise than a 10 year old Rambler American I owned in the early 70s. Not what I expected when I paid $27k for a supposed quality vehicle.
One heck of a car
Buying a used Saab is great for a couple reasons: 1 - The price was great. 2 - The car is amazing. This Saab 9-3 SE is an absolutely fantastic car. It has a premium package (sport susp, better audio, full leather, ACC) and heated seats. The 5-speed shifts smoothly and accleration is excellent. Suspension is quirky, yet entertaining. It handles corners very well. It's absolutely beautiful in black. The hatch has a plethora of room for anything. Rides quietly. Engine noise is really insignificant. Fuel economy is great for a car with its power. No torque steer.
Falling apart after the warranty
This car is fun to drive and has reasonable fuel economy when it is not in being repaired. I am on my 3rd water pump, have replaced several computer modules, gaskets failing in very expensive areas, have electrical problems, etc. etc. I have been told by the Saab dealer that these things happen even if you keep up with the Saab maintenance schedule. I am not sure if my problems are the result of poor build quality, poor Saab mechanics at the dealership, or both. Beware of the reliablity of 2002 Saabs 9-3.
1st Saab, not the last
For anyone considering a Nissan V6 Altima/Maxima, even a V6 Accord or Camry; this car is definately worth a test drive. Saab always offers factory incentives that effectively reduce the MSRP LOWER than these LESSER cars. The 9-3 with 5-speed is selling around $24- 25K USD. The price of a fairly loaded V6 Altima is $28K and your stuck with an Altima. The Saab 9-5, contrary to what most believe, start around $28-29K with the incentives. Both are worth the time of a quick test drive.
My Saab 9-3
If you want a car that's fun to drive, nimble and responsive this is a great car. If you need to have a large interior with room to move around, it isn't for you. I guess you have to sacrifice something for the fun. Once you get used to it, you may never want to drive anything else.
Get one before they are gone!
I got this car a few weeks ago and it is the best car for the money. It has the type of luxury and comfort that you would expect from a $40k car and the performance to match it. There aren't many left as they are clearing the inventories for the new 2003 model, so get yours now.
they don't make them like they used to!
This vehicle has been a nightmare! I have been the only owner, never in an accident and there have been issues from the time it was under warranty. 2 auto windows that broke, 2 ball joints (the same one each at 50K miles), 3 electrical relay switches, head gasket that leaks, radio control display that is not readable and many other problems, on top of routine maintenance! Lemon is what I got, and Saab has lost a customer of 25 years!
The road less traveled
I always admired Saab's for their unique appearance. You don't see too many of them on the road so they always stood out and caught my eye. After several test drives and reading lots of reviews, I finally bit the bullet and drove out of the dealer with a 2002 9-3 SE last January. I've had the car just over a year now and have never regretted my decision, I love this car.
poor build quality
Fun to drive, but a horrible car. Mine has 22,000 miles on it...been towed 3 times, AC broke, ignition problems, creaks and rattles constantly, rotors needed to be replaced twice. Fortunately it's leased and I am getting rid of it in a year. Thank god! Stay away from SAAB. Over priced and sub standard.
Frequent Car Buyer
I bought this car for my wife replacing a 4 years old BMW 328i. We feel we have lost 10% in peformance and gained 35% in styling and pleasure. The Viggen convertable is a fun car that can well please both my wife and myself. Also drove a 9-3 converatble (not Viggen). There is a world of difference. I would not have traded my BMW for a regular 9-3.
Got lucky and didn't get a lemon
Thought I'd add my two cents. Had an issue with the loose screw in the trunk which made rattling noise. Plastics inside vehicles also make rattling noise at high speed but manageable. Mine's manual, and so far at 68K over 2.5 years, I haven't had any problems with it. I drive mostly on the highways and drive fast. Starts slow but once it gets moving, hitting 100 is easy. I knew going in that reliability is an issue but I'm crossing my fingers that mine will last a while longer...
Better than expected
I purchased my new 93 last week. I was deciding between a loaded Honda Accord and the 93. I am very happy with my decision. The Saab offers great syling and performance for about $30.00 more per month in comparible lease terms to the Accord. After owning a number of "utilitarian" type cars, the Saab 93 has made it is fun to drive again.
Saab's the one
Leased a saab 9-3 in August and I am extremely pleased with the price and performance. My previous vehicle was a BMW 740i which was flawless. However, performance was delivered with a premium price. The saab gives top performance at a reasonable price (especially with the rebate). As you would expect, the ride is not comparable (comfort wise)however, the saab is not in the same social class. Love the saab, highly recommend it.
Different from the rest
Excellent car. Distinguish style and lot of torque with turbo engine. Coll features like ignition key and above all if you want to be different from all the BMW 3 series and still drive something which is even better performance and handling then go for SAAB.
Love this car
The sport tires do transmit the feel of the road more than some other near luxury cars, but it's nothing I could complain about. The seats are extremely comfortable. The interior and exterior are very well assembled. Huge trunk can hold just about anything. Great stereo! Press the "S" button on the gear selector and watch this car fly!
2nd Saab
I am very satisfied with my '02 9-3 SE. This is my first automatic Saab and it's just as peppy as my 99 9-3 was in a 5-speed. I enjoy the benefits of traction control and On-Star in this new model. Can't say enuf to praise the car or the dealership, Just Saab. They go out of their way to please the customer. The old saying that the customer is always right applies here.
A work of art!
After looking at an Acura 3.2 tl type s and a Passat 1.8T, I purchased a 9-3 SE with premium package, heated seats, metalic midnight blue paint, auto. Great seats, very fast, huge cargo space, quiet at speed on the highway, beautiful and simple interior, kickin' stereo. This car grows on me every day! The dealer experience was great.
Exceptional Value, Fun for GTI people
Before purchasing the 9-3; I considered the Volvo V40, the Benz Coupe, the BMW 325, and Audi A4. I purchased the 9-3 after the test drive. Loads of power and acceleration. Top end power was a little low, but how often do you really get into triple digits? For those of us raised on GTi's in the 80s and 90s, this is a well-qualified replacement.
First time Saab Owner. Amazing Car!
This is my first Saab ever. Enjoyed every minute of it. Does everything you want it to do but with 30-35 mpg. I am sad to have sold it. It sold the next day after putting it in the paper. I will definitely be looking to buy another one
unique styling gets lots of looks
I had to decide between the SAAB and a Mustang V6. I'll never look back. As rare as it is in advertising these days, SAAB has stumble onto a truth. I think it's something like "Most people who drive one, buy one." I agree. After driving the SAAB I didn't even go back to the Ford dealer.
Solid, but Fun Car...
We looked at Nissans (Altima and Maxima), Toyotas (Camry and Corolla SE), Fords, Mini, and Volvos. We liked the Saab the best because they gave us a great lease deal and we did not have to mess around with all of those Option packages. The 9-3 Turbo has everything you will need right out of the gate. It's fast, nice-looking (midnight blue), functional (OnStar), luxurious (Leather, Power Everything, Sunroof), and reliable. I drive on the highway all day and this car is a joy at high speeds. At night, the dashboard lights are easy on the eyes.
Solid, but Fun Car...
We looked at Nissans (Altima and Maxima), Toyotas (Camry and Corolla SE), Fords, Mini, and Volvos. We liked the Saab the best because they gave us a great lease deal and we did not have to mess around with all of those Option packages. The 9-3 Turbo has everything you will need right out of the gate. It's fast, nice-looking (midnight blue), functional (OnStar), luxurious (Leather, Power Everything, Sunroof), and reliable. I drive on the highway all day and this car is a joy at high speeds. At night, the dashboard lights are easy on the eyes.
A New Saab Owner
When I decided to get an entry level luxury sedan, I looked at several vehicles, including BMW and Volvo. I chose the Saab just because of the test drive. If you are at all waivering on what type of car and the Saab is a little out of your price range, don't test drive it. You'll have to leave with it, whether you can afford it or not! I'm surprised at it's speed with so little horsepower.
WONDERFUL CAR
I'd buy another...its so classy.
A Good Saab Story
What a super vehicle! Saab somehow manages to smoothly combine practicality with performance. I challenge anyone to find another vehicle in the 9-3's price range with comparable performance and design features. Reb Brown at Saab of Thousand Oaks (California) provided us with superior service, as well as a straight-forward deal.
My 1st 4-door
Having to give up my 2-door sport vehicle and buy a 4-door family sedan for the first time, we looked at upscale sedans. I drove the Saab last & loved it. The seats are comfortable & the trunk space roomy. The car has nimble handling & a pleasure to drive. I opted for the manual tranmission & premium package. The turbo engine makes up for the VTEC engine that I had. The visability is great, as there are limited blind spots. Having the ignition in the floor is odd, but it is a neat feature. Other then that, the car is truly a dream to drive and own! Guilford Saab is a great dealer, highly recommend both them and the car.
The most fun you will have driving.
The 205 hp on this baby makes it a fun drive. I also like the fact that it does not look like every other boxy sedan that you see on the road (you know which sedans I'm talking about.
Saab is good for you
I bought a Saab 93. It has many standart options and also safety features such as ABS, side airbags... It is a fast car, no turbo lag as others claim. I like its style, it is different from the other mass market cars. Hope the new model will be as quirky as the current one.