Used 2003 Saab 9-3 Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Still Get Compliments on the Car
Harry 19, 07/01/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I did have some fairly minor mechanical problems the first year, all of which were covered under warranty--nothing since. The car still turns heads after all this time--people assume I paid a lot more for it than I did. The ride is a little stiff and the model has improved since 2003. I still enjoy it and never had some of the mechanical problems that other '03 owners seem to have encountered. I enjoy driving the car and will probably buy a 9-3 again but hope to be able to keep this one going another few years at least--I don't use it much more than 7,500 miles a year and if I can avoid any major problems expect to hold it until it dies.
My last SAAB
jmklwck, 01/13/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased new - experience has been less than stellar with immediate recalls of front wheel axles. As the weather got colder the first winter (2 months after the purchase) the car would not immediately start. After repeated trips to the dealership the problem was resolved with an adjustement to the engine software. Multiple recalls on the vehicle - seat belts, gas cap, etc. I have had a constant check engine light issue which I was told was a secondary vacuum pump for the turbo ($600+) that I have chosen not to repair since it service tech stated it only affected mileage which I have seen no change.
2003 Saab 9-3 for sale near you
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The BEST european sport sedan under 35k
Juanjo, 10/12/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Absolutley the best sport sedan on the market, far superior than AUDI A4 and BMW 3 series; VOLO S60 doesnt even come close to this car really a jewel
Great Swedish Sport
dtmarz, 07/23/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Black ARC is definitely the best Car I've ever owned. My smile starts every time I click the key fob to unlock the door, and the light flash a quick Hello. Everything you read about the great safety features, can be matched with the performance and attention to user details (for the driver and all the passengers). Saab shows it's serious about building a great car, not marketing hype.
My new 93 Saab
rbuckman, 07/25/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The SAAB 93 Vector is a very fun car to drive. Just loving it!
Totally New Car
former ford driver, 10/23/2002
updated 01/11/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Unlike any Saab I've ever driven. A true premium entry level luxury sedan. Holds its own and then some compared to the BMW 3's and Audi A4.
vector
M.P., 07/25/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This was a huge surprise from Saab. Six speed with good passing power. Perfect seats, could have used a bit more room in the rear and less trunk (it's huge).
Be careful...
JCool, 07/27/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After 1800 miles a new transmission unit was installed because the last one caused a loud grinding noise when shifting into second gear. At around 4300 miles, the same EXACT problem with tranmission happened again. The second time my car was worked on, the problem was actually worse. The problem only occurs when the engine is cold. In addition, "engine malfunction" light has come on twice. Power seats didn't work properly. The radio has messed up. A headlight has gone out. All this with less than 5000 miles.
Great car!
formeraudiguy, 01/18/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this Saab-Certified car about four months ago and am very happy so far. The fuel economy is great, 33 mpg hwy and runs on regular fuel. There is a little more road noise than I care for and the stereo could be better, but these are minor issues. Not quite a 3-series or A4, but priced thousands $ less. Overall, this is a fun to drive car and is very economical. I would buy another one.
Germany take notice!
wubba, 10/27/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I wish the last guy/gal who rated it a 1.0 (and drove down the overall ratings) would admit they are working for BMW. I'll wave bye-bye as I pass you're ass on the autobahn. ...Test-drove the 3, IS300, A4 and C class, if you like <b>DRIVING</B> a car visit you local SAAB dealer.
Wish the electronics worked
Ganddi, 07/26/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the Linear in Feb 03. I have every option on the car including the "rare" launch package. My initial response to the car was very positive. However, since Feburary we had the car in for electronics problems 5 seperate times(mainly onstar).Our dealership, although responsive, seemed to be inept the first 4 times I graced there floors. Fianlly, after dealing with the GM and the service manager the problem appears to be resolved.fantastic.Cruising at 80 mph feels effortless, and unnoticed with how well the car rides. However, I am basing that only on the few times I have driven the car since it seems to be in the shop more than I'm driving it.
Great, fun car!
ftnss1, 07/26/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my Arc almost 2 months now (3k miles). I love driving it more and more every day. Handling and grip are awesome for a sedan! Acceleration is very brisk, despite slight turbo lag off the line. I love the design, the comfort (great seats!), the on- star system. We'll see about reliability -- suffered minor stalling problem at very low speed, now apparently corrected by dealer reprogramming the computer; homelink garage opener doesn't work (for anyone, apparently); otherwise, no problems. Great value for the money and reeaally fun to drive.
Awesome Car!
Saab Bob, 10/02/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Saab really hit a home run with this one!
The Best Car
Sheena, 07/27/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Silver Vector has 3800 miles on it and I love driving it. I get a lot of complaints from many of my friends. Everyone seems to love the body kit on the car. There is not much turbo lag but the car does take a second to get going after you hit the gas pedal. The sport seats are perfect for sharp turns.
Love / Hate Relationship
Vectra, 07/28/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is such a great car, it is a shame that I have a Lemon. I was not worried about buying the Vector as soon as it was made available b/c of SAAB's committment to quality, however have ended up driving the loaner car more than my fun Vector. There is something draining the battery when the car is off and they have replaced everything: CD Changer, 300W Amp, Window Controls, Battery, you name it. Unfortunetely due to the fine print on the contract since I used GMS discount I have no protection under the Lemon Law. I hope they get it fixed b/c it is a great car.
I love my Saab
Lucy Florses, 12/13/2007
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new, I had 1 problem with it took it to the dealer, they fixed it. The problem is with a rattle but I have never heard from it since. I love the turbo, it makes you think it's a v6. I still get around 32 on highway and 24-29 in town. I never had any electrical problems with it. I have about a 2 hour drive each day and it has suited well. I will always drive saab from now on, this is my second one, the last one was crushed by a drunk driver with my daughter driving, she walked away without a cut.
Do not buy this car
Esmir K., 07/03/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car about 10 months ago and i have had terrible experience with this car, all kinds of repairs from ignition switch, oxygen sensor, new tires, steering rack, headlights died on me that cost me about 210 per 1. I would not suggest nobody to buy this car.
Love it!
Travis Cole, 07/09/2009
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Saab used, I've had a couple issues but I still love the car. It has enough get up and go, and to me is just a thrill to drive! The only real problem I've had with the car is on 2 occasions there was a computer issue, the computer wasn't telling the car to shift gears basically. The first time this happened it fixed itself after I restarted the car a few times. The second time I had to have the computer reset at the dealership ($100) and they put in all the updated software. I get tons of compliments on the car, and I get excited to drive it every time I get behind the wheel!
Great car at a great price!
fych3173, 08/01/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Saab has really put together a wonderful car! All the gadgets in the car are so cool. Its very functional, fun to drive, beauty to look at, excellent cornering, quick acceleration, comfortable even for a 6'4" person.
FUN CAR
Peteran, 07/31/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have been driving it for a week now and let me tell you, that the SAAB commercial about a "direct link between the right foot and a smile" IS TRUE. my wife keeps telling me that every time I accelerate " I never saw you smile so much" followed by "agony and screaming". options: Moonroof and Heated seats, I also had the dealer install a rear spoiler and the sport muffler. It really brought the car out even more, too bad I can't post a picture.
I wrote off Saab until this I drove this
Saabhappy, 08/01/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I went to the dealer to turn in my '99 on lease and saw the new style. I thought I would just drive it for the heck of it and go off to the BMW and Mercedes dealer to pick up either a 3 series or C-class. I was impressed with the new 93 so much, that after driving the 3 series BMW and C-class Mercedes, I couldn't pass up the Saab. A heck of a lot of value for the money, the handling felt better, the ride more supple and the handling was on par with the others. I have been nothing but pleased with the dealer follow through and it seems as if Saab is finally ready to be a true contender/leader in the entry lux market.
Great Value!
danmc, 09/13/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I drove the BMW 325, MB C230 Sedan, Acura TSX and Audi A4 before deciding on the 9-3 Linear. I drove the Arc with a sport suspension as well but teh car did not seem as integrated as the Linear. Got the touring and driver's packages for a great price when GM was doing cash rebates in August. I really wanted a European car so the TSX was out and the rest just cost too much equipped as well as the Saab. Car drives great. Plenty of power for the freeway merges and gets great gas mileage.
Value
HKC_93, 01/04/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car fun and jazzy. Its distinctiveness is one of the main draw for me, of course, value counts too, it has all the luxry you want plus more... Get one with sports package, you won't be out of style for a long time.
Saab 9-3 Auto
Robertsc, 07/19/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
JUst leased a saab 9-3. The computer system is a bit confusing, and the ventilation system is not quite as good as the one on my 98 outback. Overall I enjoy driving it, auto is smooth, sound system is great. Small rattle in passenger side door. overall a pretty good car.
Fun
Gdsgn, 02/28/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun car. Very happy. Zero turbo lag.
Great Car for the Money
nbcmarine, 08/02/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I started out looking for a brand new BMW. Someone suggested I check out the new 9-3, I'm glad I did. Price wise its a great value compared to the Bimmer. Handsome all around, I was impressed by its Scandanavian attributes and performance. Do yourself a favor before you buy any car in that price range and check this one out. The car really is a great value when you consider that a Nissan Maxima or Honda Accord with similar option about the same as the Saab.
Saabs puts together a fine vehicle
detroitdriver, 08/11/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I recently purchased a 9-3 Arc and I am ,so far, very satisfied with my decision. The interior is in no way cheap as some may think or say. This is no Grand Am. The leather seats are comfortable. The dials are easy to read and the cabin overall has a nice layout. The shifting is smooth and positive. The exterior styling matches that of any European model in my opinion. Some may complain about turbo lag but I have not noticed a significant problem with this. Unrealistic expectations may be to blame. The infotainment system can be a bit distracting.
Fun to drive, great mpg
heilig, 12/20/2007
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had some problems with this car (HVAC fan broke twice, emission control blower, front lights burned out), but all in all this has been a fun to drive, economical car. I drive between 75 and 80 MPH and regularly get 32 MPG at these speeds. Acceleration when driving 55 to 90 MPH is excellent.
Just Drive it!
saabowner, 08/21/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After many weeks of research and driving, I opted for the 9-3 Linear with all available options and received a vehicle which is gorgeous to look at, extremely practical (I have taken it camping twice and easily fit all required items), and thrilling to drive. Add to this a reasonable price tag and flexible purchase options, and the decision was fairly straight - forward. Truly, I am pleased with this vehicle after 4 mos. of ownership and 8000 miles. This is one car I can live with for many years (or at least until the new model comes out!)!
We both love this car
bmccoy, 01/14/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Those who have rated the car poorly in this forum must really like the old hatchback style, but that's why I never owned one before. This car is beautiful both inside and out. Some said its cheap and GM ruined it, but if you read the automative journals, this is the best car Saab ever produced. The linear model is fast enough for me. It accerlates quickly and gets up to speed in seconds. Handling is this cars best attribute. It simply carves up twisty back roads. The interior is laid out very well. There are a ton of features and the profiler system is great. Put simply, this car is terrific. I have never gotten up early on a weekend just to go for a drive!!
100 mile commute seems a lot shorter!
Luba, 09/21/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just bought my 2003 9-3 ARC last week w/auto and sport wheels. GM employee discounts for the 2003 model made it tough to pass on. Already put 800 miles on the Saab. Replaced a 1995 Volvo 850 turbo. No comparison, the Volvo was quick, but did not handle the turns, the Saab takes the turns like it is on rails,a lot of fun. I would recommend this car to anyone that is considering a euro sport sedan. I also drove the Infinity G35 sedan, which was quicker, but felt like a very heavy car, not as nimble. So far I love the car, and I'll keep you posted on our progress.
Great vehicle!
Preston, 09/27/2009
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my car. It has been wonderful and only issues have been its common gnomes in the electrical work/displays (funny at times, annoying at others). Comfort is above par and makes daily long drives bearable. Turbo lag is certainly there, but as soon as it realizes that it's supposed to go, it does so with awesomeness. Plenty of power and fuel economy to boot. Overall, a wonderful car for my first dive into the luxury branded vehicles.
sweet
bob saab, 11/21/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
2 weeks old love it
NO REGRET
gthehun, 08/01/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I can go on an' on what made me buy a Saab, but I don't want to take all day...Bottom line: I LOVE THIS CAR !!! My previous cars were Acuras and Bimmers and I used to have a 900 turbo hatchback in my teenage years and that car was a blast so when I first saw the pictures and specs. of the new Saab 9-3 last summer in Europe I thought:"give it a chance"...and BINGO.
The Truth
True Saab Owner, 03/01/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I must rebut the misinformation in some these 9-3 reviews. The 9-3 is built on a new platform only used by Saab and Opel as of yet. The only truth about GrandAm connection is that GM plans to build it next-gen GrandAm on the platform to cut costs. Volkswagon and Audi do the same. Anyhow, I like the way the the 9-3 drives - nice handling and comfortable seats. I think the Linear has plenty of power for everyday driving and compares favorably to the A4 and 3 Series base models. The real story is that the Saab has leather interior standard. If you make a true comparison (option for option) the 9-3 will save you at least 5K over a A4 or 3 Series.
Overwhelming experience!!
LUV4SAAB, 01/22/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my new 9-3 Sport Sedan about a month ago, and let me tell you, I wish this car were out 3 years ago!! The styling of this new Saab is outstanding. This is the first Saab I've owned, and heads are turning as I drive. The power in the Linear model is great. I love the ability to switch from auto to manual for a little more excitement in driving. The sales staff I worked with was phenomenal as well. I've never had such a positive and honest car buying experience.
Amazed I Bought it
drives2fast, 09/25/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Spent months researching my next purchase in the sport sedan market. I had pretty much decided to buy the BMW 330I with all the usual packages. Then I started test driving all the different makes: A4, Acura tl-s, Bmw, G- 35, Mazda RX-8, Lexus, and as a lark the new Saab 9-3. Funny thing happened, I couldn't stop going back and driving the Saab Vector. It was just the best combination of Fun to drive, safety, and Utility. After 1500 miles I don't regret the decision at all. This car rocks, just plain fun, I have yet to find anything I dislike about it. If you test drive this car you will probably buy it.
This is a cool car!!
Saabdriver, 01/28/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I wasn't going to purchase this car; what I really wanted was a Volvo S40. But after I test-drove it, I fell in love. The 9-3 is as sophisticated as the S40 but with more features. It has a sporty engine like the A4 but without the high torque. It is one of the best cars in its class. It's comfortable, has tons of amenities and great performance. In addition to all of that, my dealership in Akron, Ohio (Towell Saab) gave me one of the best deals going on this car. I can't believe what I'm paying (or not paying). If you are in Ohio, go there to get your Saab!
Owned Better
Owned Better, 01/07/2005
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The build quality is quite poor. Rattles and noises first in the doors, then the B pillar, and now the dash. They keep accumulating and the dealer just can't get them fixed. Mechanically, the brakes are noisy and the engine has required tweaking to prevent stalling. The center dash mounted computer also has its own agenda. It doesn't keep time or settings correctly.
Welcome to the premium-class SAAB!
William C. Eastwood, 08/24/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A good friend of mine works at SAABs NY office and got to test the new 9-3, as a good friend of his I got to drive it to. What can I say, a wonderful car. I'm considering getting rid of my BMW 330Ci and getting a new 9-3 Aero when it hits the market, I suggest you do the same!
understated sophistication
lei, 10/07/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
You always stumble across the Saab fanatic and just figure that what they rave about is more of a statement about themselves, that they dare to be different and drive a non-mainstream vehicle. Well I guess, I dare to be in the hottest car around. The new 9-3 is not only eye-catching but a high performance dream. With precision handeling that you can totally put your faith into. I have tried to put my car out of control and it just doesn't have it... it counters and responds in such unison it is truly unbelievable. People don't know what they are missing. And what they don't know, doesn't hurt them, but it could save them... everything.
My Saab has been a great purchase
Harmiclir, 03/31/2009
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had a few minor problems in the first year but since then, nothing. Granted, it's a fairly low-mileage car but it rides well and has been reliable. I still get compliments on the way it looks. I have no idea how the problems with GM cutting Saab free will play out or affect future value but so I'm glad I bought the car and have never understood the concerns raised by many old-time Saab-snobs.
Lots for the Money
newsaabdriver, 08/04/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Leased the ARC model after looking at the Acura TSX and others. Saab is a ton of car for the money. Acura was too bland. The Saab blows the Acura and BMW away in driver information and features. Saab's 210 hp and 221 lb/ft torque make the car feel more like 250hp b/c turbo acceleration. Lag is noticable but present only under 2000rpm, above 2K rpm it is strong. Our's is a week old and Onstar registration of the car is the only issue. Buy an Arc rather than a loaded Linear (cheaper that way). Dealer experience was good and I expect more of the same in the future - all service covered is a plus (not so with Acura).
The opposite of Zeke
brucec32, 11/23/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Critics calling this car bland need to drive the car first. The new car has barely any turbo lag, unlike the old 9- 3, No torque steer, unlike the horrible torque steer in the previous car. Add in comfortable seats, fresh styling, more interior room for passengers, no body roll , great brakes, better interiors, and improved safety. And it costs thousands less than before. Unless your lifestyle involves carrying 36" TV's on a regular basis, the sedan is useful enough for most. the old 9-3 came in near the bottom in most sport sedan comparisons for a reason. The new 9-3 is a big improvement.
Don't buy one Because....
ATX Teacher, 08/15/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
There are many problems with the 9-3 that are unfixable, especially if you live in a hot climate like Texas. The Fuel injextions system has many problems that the manufacturer is choosing to ignore, causing many of these cars to be irrepairable, but these problems are not showing up in statistics b/c the manufacturer is repurchasing the cars from the owners without having "Lemon Law" suits filed. The car looks great and is fun to drive, but don't be fooled. Many problems need to be fixed with this car.
More of the same
Bueller, 07/16/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Similar to other reviews, I've had numerous electrical and mechanical issues since purchasing the car 4 years ago. The HVAC blower has been looked at and 'fixed' 5 times now. Window motor replaced. Fading door handles replaced. Interior finishes now chipping off. Hood Saab emblem is cracked and deteriorating. Excess brake dust.
It's Criminal - Worst car decision
21blackjacklarry, 08/25/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best car to drive Ive had in my 45 years but notoriously unreliable. Its too late for me. My only hope in posting is the satisfaction I get in saving another person the aggravation and expense of owning this beast. I was the sole owner, of a 2003 9-3 Linear. 50K after 5 years, and $2,475 in repairs since 9/07 including both front window regulators, O2 sensor, cabin temp. control malfunction, back door latch malfunction. Add these to the list of failures including radio volume control, sunroof malfunction, headlight assembly and 4 recalls, among others. This is more than a shame. This is downright criminal that an auto manufacturer of a $30K + vehicle
Guess I've been lucky
kjsouth725, 12/23/2008
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned this car for 5 years and it's the most comfortable car I've ever driven. And everyone loves how it looks. The biggest negative is the cost of repair. I haven't had many (knock on wood) but those that I've had are expensive. Then again, it's less expensive to than an Audi or BMW. Second big complain is that the wheels are held on my bolts, not lugs. All five need to be at proper torque for the wheel to balance. Also, the wheel hub and bolt are softer metal, so I've already had to re-tap one wheel twice due to electric wrench happy mechanics.
03 9-3, 4th Saab in 20 yrs
rgc2200, 11/27/2002
2003 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best built, handling Saab ever. How was torque steer and turbo lag finally eliminated? Very cool looking in 16"launch/touring + 5 speed manual. Not a rocket, but plenty fast, and will keep you out of trouble. Larger then expected inside, head room galore (i'm 6'4") and with ease of seat fold down/ski pass through, don't miss the hatch back. Unsure why they aren't selling! Waiting for 2nd key, onstar installation and fixing one minor defect (source button on steering wheel upside down). after 3 weeks, I love the car and value, and unique look. I happily pass scores of A-4's and 3 series bmw's each morning!
Excellent Choice
Builder, 08/16/2003
2003 Saab 9-3 Vector 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After looking at all the competition, the Vector is by far the best value and the most fun to drive. It looks great and performs well ahead of more expensive competition.