Used 2003 Saab 9-3 Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Guess I've been lucky
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
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!
- SE ConvertibleMSRP: $4,995377 mi away
- SE ConvertibleMSRP: $3,495556 mi away
- SE ConvertibleMSRP: $11,500724 mi away
Excellent Choice
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.
Stay away from this Saab
I bought the car for my wife last month, I had so many problems that I am seriously considering selling the car at a huge loss. The ride is harsh and uncomfortable, the quality of the parts on the dashboard are noisy since are shared with other less expensive GMs. The driving position is odd and unsual.
So Sad
My first luxury car loved it but it was in the shop every couple of weeks for the first four months. Undiagnosed stalling, clutch lost pressure, wouldn't restart. Dealership tinkered and replaced the turbo. After almost a year it still has stalling/restarting problem. A beautiful piece of art but I need a dependable ride. Fun to drive but I can get C-class Mercedes for the same - I'm out of here when lease is up.
Unique & Fun to Drive
A distinctive car on the streets of Boston: uncommon, elegant & sporty. Fast but not that fast: Good acceleration, but sometimes slow to take off. Very effective overtaking at 80mph. Handling is precise and very enjoyable to drive. 6M gear box is OK but often grates when changing, even with clutch fully down. No fix from Saab. Mileage is great. And you're talking to the guy who got 17mpg out of a PRIUS. Mental driving = 25mpg/35mpg when cruise set to 65mph coming back from VT. Outstanding. Good in snow with new Continental tires. Clean looking interior design but front door panel inserts rattle. Would I buy again? Yes absolutely. No regrets just fun
Great vehicle!
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.
First Saab not my last
Just got the 9-3 Vector. Wow, clean lines, more power than needed, handles like its on rails. Innovations galore, some from old Saab some from GM, just a great blend. Tested G-30, A-4, BMW 3 and Baby Caddy.. 9-3 Vector is the very best mix of technology, power, appeal, and price.
Great Car for the Money
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.
Major Disappointment
1.5 years into my lease and I can't wait for it to end. It's apparent that now that GM owns 100% has lowered SAAB quality down to GM levels -- quality far far below the 2000 SAAB 9-5 I had before. Squeeks, rattles, the clock won't keep time, and the world's WORST stereo system -- other than AM talk radio I leave it turned off it's so bad. This was the third -- but will be the last - SAAB in this household. I want a quality car, not a GM car. Next stop, Toyota / Lexus or Honda / Acura. Save yourself much grief and avoid this badge-engineered Malibu.
It's Criminal - Worst car decision
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
One year mark
Outstanding 1st year. Have owned Audi Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, Volvo, Acura in the past. Saab 9-3 represented the best value when we went for a new car in August '03. Car has lived up to expectations. The car has the right amount of torque for daily driving. It is pleasant and smooth with adequate power when pressed. The Linear is a nice balance of riding comfort and handling agility (only my Porsche handled better). The car is one of the safest ever built (refer to crashtest.com for testing done worldwide).
Lots for the Money
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).
MISTAKE!
It seemed like I was driving the loaner more than my new car. Infotainment system had various bugs that came and went for days at a time. Engine Light was always on due to defective engine parts that had to be replaced. Horn stopped working shortly after purchase. Automatic windows began malfunctioning such that the window would not go up...very inconveinent in rain! I spent a great deal of time returning my car to dealer for warranty repairs. I wish I had bought the Audi A4 as I had originally wanted! Also was not impressed when I traded it in and the dealer called the selling dealership to get a value and was told, "No, we wouldn't buy that vehicle back...too many problems."
Don't buy one Because....
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.
9-3 Sport Sedan 2.0t - LOVE IT
I decided not to wait for the 210hp ARC and basically got the 175hp vector fully loaded minus the 17" sport wheel package. I thought the sport suspension was a little to rigid for my confort. Overall the car is roomy and fun to drive. There is a little turbo lag when making that zero to 60 jet merging into traffic, but overall the car responds well.
The last time I'll ever buy a Saab
The car spends more time in the dealership than in the driveway. Had the CD changer replaced 3 or 4 times (I actually lost count), "Infotainment" center works only half the time, multiple sensors replaced on car, major stereo and electronic issues (too much to go into here), and other problems that are escaping me at this time. The car squeaks and rattles like a 10 year old economy car. You would think for $30k it would have been built better. Good MPG? I wish I knew the secret of these other people, I am averaging 21-24 mpg with my daily commute and having to put premium gas in, that's not good. My biggest regret is that I purchased this car. Very big MISTAKE!
Almost 2 years now and love it
I have had my 9-3 SS almost 2 years and still absolutely love the car. It is a real head turner, fun to drive, and still gets great mileage.
9-3 Arc
This car is so much fun to drive. I look forward to merging on to highways because the power band is exactly where it should be. That range between 20-80 is exhilirating. The steering on the car is impeccable. It cuts through turns at high speeds with ease. The interior appointments are rich and comfortable. The gadgets are cool. Bottom line is that you'll have your friends drooling and asking you where you got it and how much you got it for. Its a really unique car in its class. Why be like everyone else?
Great wheels
Car has lived up to my expectations. Nice acceleration, great brakes, nice style, super fuel economy.
Too many problems
The problems include, window failure, Onstar malfunctions, transmission slipping, brake problems, plastic door hardware falling off, rattling plastic in the dash. My car has been to the dealer 10 times in 19 months. Save your time & money! By the way - Saab corp has been no help. Local dealer sales dept. offered an insulting buyback option. As you read this & other 9-3 reviews, don't you think it's strange about 20% of the cars have the same problems I've experienced??
93 is an over-priced Passat!!
I've been shopping for an entry-level lux cars for about two weeks, and just test drove 93 recently. This skinky car shouldn't even be mentioned with the likes of Lexus IS300, BMW 3s, and Audi A4. Simply put, this car lacks power and its interior looks dirt cheap (like GM Cavaliers). To aggrevate my already disappointed experience, its sleazy salesman told me that you CAN NOT get an automatic transmission option without getting Launch package first, and quoted a price of $31K!!?#. I bet those people who gave 93 a 10 pts, didn't even test drove BMW or Lexus, or must be insane! Get Lexus like I did.
Swedish surprise
Everything from purchasing to driving has been a unexpected surprise! The dealer, Just Saab, would be rated a 12 on a 10 scale, pleasant, knowlegeable, and the building is squeeky clean! And the car, what a thrill to own! Fit and finish is execellent, creature comforts are many, performance is great. The Saab 9-3 SE gives a lot of bang for the bucks! I would definately suggest this execellent auto to any one looking for a fun and beautifully built vehicle. Keep up the good work!
Too many problems
The problems include, window failure, Onstar malfunctions, transmission slipping, brake problems, plastic door hardware falling off, rattling plastic in the dash. My car has been to the dealer 10 times in 19 months. Save your time & money! By the way - Saab corp has been no help. Local dealer sales dept. offered an insulting buyback option. As you read this & other 9-3 reviews, don't you think it's strange about 20% of the cars have the same problems I've experienced??
The Real Deal
After thorough research, I have concluded this car to be best in class based on price, safety, driveability and engineering. Compaired to Audi, Volvo, BMW, Infinity and Lexus, the 9-3 from the ground up is engineered as a serious driver's car. When you are able to walk out of the dealership paying only $30,000 for a loaded linear there is no comparison. Show me another car with 10 air bags, and this level of safety features on this price point. If you thrive on overpaying for a statis mobile, be my guest. If you are an educated consumer, go for the Saab.
Watch Out
The car is unbelievably fun to drive. Unfortunately it has been at the dealership numerous number of times in the first year. 10 times for at least 2 days at a time. Parking brake, infotainment, and 2 transmissions are only the begining. Transmission still not fixed. worse 6-speed i have ever driven. Grinds going into 2nd and 3rd gear. I cant keep taking the car to the dealer everytime i have a problem. Saab still working to fix my transmission problem. It start at 3000 miles. I wonder why the new 2005 saab 93 has a 5-speed in it?
Great BMW alternative
This car has everything we need, good looks, safety, decent power, sporty handling, and a reasonable price. Until recently, you had to sacrifice something if you didn't get a BMW. This new Saab isn't a BMW, but costs less and comes very close. Quick and smooth for a 4 cylinder turbo car.
swedish built??
did not meet my expectations... turbo has a lag, not as much power as i thought...built way too low to the ground... sporty look without the sporty performance... winter driving is fair...but look out for that snow.... cracked bumper a few times driving through it..
Great dynamics - shame about build
Wonderful driving dynamics. Shame about the details. Too much electronic control. Changing the band on the radio is a major job. Door locks problematic. Stalling problems & stability control warnings. Back to the dealer 4 times in 4000 miles.
The Last Saab
WE have had nothing but trouble with this car from day one. The biggest complaint is the hesitation which the dealer has not repaired, we are in arbitration. All the problems with this car have not been repaired. My wife has to constantly take it back for repair
Well Balanced Car with Everything
The new Saab 9-3 is the perfect blend in this class of distinctiveness, luxury, performance, styling and overall comfort. It presents the best handling chassis used by Saab and thus improvement in overall driving is tremendous. The amount of standard features in this prices range are enormous and I would have this car in my garage any day over a 3-Series, Audi, or C-Class. Understated, subtle elegance with enough uumph under the hood to make you smile!!
Buy something else
I was looking so forward to having a new car and not having to bring it to the shop every other month. The engine light kept coming on they told me I wasn't putting the gas cap on correctly. Being a nurse I can start IV's and change caps on invasive lines, but can't put on a gas cap,OK? The power steering pump leaked was replaced. Finally had new front brakes replaced it would just squeal. The dash rattles, the shocks thud and pop. When it's cold the stereo freezes up. The tires suck in the snow, I constantly feel like the back end slipping out. It doesn't go thru snow. You would think this car would be great in cold & snow far from it. Even got a GM discount under dealer invoice.
Nice Car
This is a great car for the money. Much better car then either the Audi or BMW.
DO NOT BUY THIS CAR!!!!!!
It squeaks and rattles. Very unpleasant to drive. The quality of the interior material is very poor. It does feel like driving a Cavalier or a Saturn. I agree with the other reviewer who said that they should change the name to SAAturn. OnStar is nice if you like to be put on hold.
What a love hate relationship!
This is the best of cars, this is the worst of cars. Sound familiar '03 Saab 9-3 owners? What's good is good- and that's handling, braking, cornering, traction, and great responsiveness from the outstandingly smooth (for a 4 cyl) engine. Great aerodynamic exterior too-a holdover from the Saab-Scania days. The interior is techy rich though the myriad of chicklet sized buttons is obnoxious. Now, what's bad is bad- and that's just plain lack of fit and finish and totally ridiculous reliability. I have the same problems I have read before- plastic rattling dashboard, OnStar meltdowns, thunking shocks (BADDD!!), run on transmission. Just get it right guys. This car has incredible potential.
Great Built Cars
This is the best car that I have ever owned. I had a problem with some of the pixels going out of my display. I took it to the dealership and they fixed that plus replaced my door handles, seat belts, lug nuts, full maintance, and the list goes on all for free!! Great built cars.
best car in class
my new 9-3 has been one of the best cars that I have ever owned. Saab of Santa Ana as well as my dealer representative Jeff Jones have been great. GO SAAB!!!
Swedes are fun!
Have my new 9-3 2.0t for 3 weeks and love it. Use to have Acura 3.2 TL and that was a nice car, very fast, but terrible in the snow. Saab is much heavier (I think a 1,000 lbs. more) and handles great. I think Saab's are only for people that really want to experience what driving a fun car is all about. I've had two BMW's and their great with rear whell drive, but you can't beat the Saab. It looks great, handles great and lots & lots of fun. My wife is Swedish & I've been to Sweden 4 times since 1996 and all I can say is that "Swedes are fun". Would recommend Saab only to those who want to experience a fun car.
2 Years and going strong
I know what Audi & BMW can be (A4 & 3 series). I decided on this one for its safety features and handling manners. I see some other owners have not had the luck I am going to mention. No fails, no problems. Ride is a pleasure, turbo lag could be something that may bother you if you like make frequent accelerations below 60 mph) hint: I use the tiptronic and get some difference!). My wife is so happy that we are just waiting for the new 9.3 V6 Turbo.. The car is excellent after 2 years, with no strange noises or something to complain. If you buy, chances are that you will keep it fon long & happy.
No ordinary Euro sedan
I considered several of the other high- end vehicles, but I was truly convinced that Saab offered much more and was all around the best choice. Now the Jones' will have to try to keep up with me!
Excellent Value for European Import
This is my second Saab and the new 9-3 is a vast improvement over the older 900 and 9-3 hatchback series. This car is fun to drive and inexpensive given the design, power and attractiveness of the vehicle. You'll feel priviledged to own and drive the new 9-3.
Great design...
I've enjoyed this car - it is the best to drive on the freeway I've owned (or leased). Great seats, great ride at speed, and great performance. It's fun to drive. The downside has proven to be continuing service problems: Sunroof doesn't work, windows won't work, A/C fan quits, headlight quits, for starters. Even had to tow because the parking brake lever stuck in place. The dealer has been great, and always has a loaner ready for the inevitable visits.
great car
So far, a great car. Had one recall with with the hand brake, but the dealership brought out a tow truck and fixed the problem for free. The turbo is great... love the turbo meter. Comfortable car for its small size. We sometimes use the car to fit the entire family of five... but beyond local commutes, stick with a large sedan or SUV, if you can afford the gas. The butterfly cup holder is pretty cool and 100x more useful then the one in my 2001 540i. The car is sporty, fun, and has never spent more then the alloted time at the dealership. Great car!
sad but true
I am so unbelievably disappointed in my new 93. I have always loved the look of Saabs and knew I would own one one day. To my surprise, I have had nothing but headaches from this car. I have had it in service approx 6 times now for various problems & it's still not resolved. Never again.
Great Car - High MPG and Performance
This car has great lines, handling and performance. With the turbo charged four cylinder engine you get both great gas mileage and performance. If you want to accelerate off the line there is a half second delay before the turbo kicks in and snaps you into the back seat. Open the sun roof and take it though the corners and you have to be impressed.
Buy one and enjoy
I have been more than pleased with it's reliability, exceeding my expectations. I have the manual trans. with the 175 hp light pressure turbo. To me, this is the best set up. The engine is smooth and powerful, with no turbo lag, not to mention 28-29 mpg. The interior is roomy with the best seats in the business. The dash has been the only quality let down. Thought I have had nothing go wrong, the centre consol units up the dash seems very flimsy, not tightly secured to the dash. Otherwise, the doors shut with a solidity that is reinforced with the excellent safety ratings (Best in Class!) I recommend SAABs to anyone wise enough to stray from the heard and follow your own road.
Electronic bugs
overall its a great car
2003 9-3 is a great car!
I am very happy with the 2003 9-3. My first service kicked at 14,400 (most of my driving is highway). Have 15,700 miles after 7 months of ownership. The SID tripped once giving me a faulty gear box reading which I need to have the dealer reset, otherwise it has been 7 months of solid reliability and great driving. I highly recommend it.
Saab 9-3
Don't buy a Saab-- It is a GM Car, remember that! I have had nothing but problems. Car drives great but more electrical nuisance problems than any other car I have ever owned. No one at Saab stands behind their cars. That includes the dealership and the 1800 Customer service number. Saab is very tempting to buy but don't do it!!! Consider the BMW 3 series or Acura TL instead.
Saab 9-3 subpar on reliability
Since owning my Saab 9-3 it has been to the shop at least 15 time for maintenance. From 2 front end tire rod issues, struts, motors for power window failing, radio issues, stability control failures, immobilizer failures to broken flimsy cupholders.