Used 2004 Saab 9-3 Consumer Reviews
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I don't get it.
magikarp5, 12/27/2012
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
45 of 46 people found this review helpful
Just purchased a used 9-3 2004 arc automatic. It has a 100000 miles on it. This is by far the nicest car I have ever driven. I don't understand why the reviews are so mixed on this car. Now you can get a $40000 vehicle for under $10000. All I hear is people complaining about little things on this car. Performance, ride, and looks, three great reasons to buy it. I test drove others in this price range of $8000, nothing came close!
Great car
mplieber, 01/21/2011
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
26 of 26 people found this review helpful
My 2004 Saab 9-3 convertible has been wonderful. Fun to drive, with an amazing acceleration on a 4-cylinder turbo engine. When going out with the family, we use the back seats which seat adults comfortably, although a bit cramped, but this beats a 2-seater any day. Reliability has been good, and the car has been well maintained. Only complaint is occasional problems with the electrical system: windows, convertible top, radio, ignition. None has been fatal but I have experienced 2 incidents where car would not start. Note: I have the automatic, not manual, model.
2004 Saab 9-3 for sale near you
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- Arc ConvertibleMSRP: $3,500731 mi away
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2004 SAAB 9-3 ARC Convertible for the Masses
blacksaabeth2, 04/27/2013
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
42 of 44 people found this review helpful
I truly believe that GM got it right when they retooled the 9-3 convertible for 2004. The older 9-3 convertibles had way too much flex in the chassis. Going over bumps made it feel like it was playing a game of Twister. 2004 convertible utilized GM's epsilon platform from Europe which firmed up the chassis 300%. Okay, maybe that's an exaggeration but it really is firm. Acceleration is more than adequate considering that the engine is a GM inspired 2-liter Ecotec engine with a turbo charger. Same basic engine as found in the old Chevy Cobalt
Great Used Car with Over 100K miles
Chuck, 12/17/2008
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
14 of 14 people found this review helpful
I bought this car on a whim and it already had over 100,000 miles on it. Yes, 100,000. The car ran like new. Handles extremely well and to date (almost 12 months later) I've had no problems. There were some minor issues and with routine maintenance the total cost for the year is under $250!!! I've had no electrical, mechanical or other issues at all. This is one fun car to drive and has held up well. I've got over 125,000 miles on the car now.
Happy camper in Wisconsin
sdettmann, 03/25/2011
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
22 of 24 people found this review helpful
Purchased used (off lease) late in 2008 when Saab looked like it might not survive. Great buy. Car had been very well cared for, and dealer was able to provide a complete service record. Car is solidly built and remarkably quiet with the top up. While no sports car, it is quite peppy and fun to drive. Some turbo lag, so it is important to keep the RPM's up around 3000 if you want to go fast. Comfortable interior in the front. I am 6'2" and have plenty of room above my head, even with the seat elevated to its highest position. You can put adults in the back seat, if they have no feet or legs (good for children in car seats though.) Have driven the car 30,000 in two years, with no problem
Fun car, not so reliable
Eddy M, 03/23/2016
updated 03/27/2017
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
96,000 miles and it has needed a lot of repairs. Expensive repairs, too. That being said, I love the way this car drives and looks. Picks up speed quick, super comfy seats, GREAT interior and exterior design. Overall a lot of fun to drive and is very safe (Swedish). It's unfortunate that they don't make these anymore.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
at last
jack fletcher, 09/14/2003
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
cant find fault with anything about the car. after driving and owning a freelander, this is the one car that has not let me down. wonderful gas mileage and so comfortable. if you know how to drive a turbo, you got it madeeve
A happy Saab owner
kukusa, 11/05/2014
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
25 of 29 people found this review helpful
I feel very sad to see Saab went under. Its probably not surprising because today every car maker is going mainstream and the only way to survive is to get bigger, which Saab failed to achieve. But Saab definitely didn't fail to make a solid and sporty 9-3 convertible. They don't drive as well as a 3-series, but not off by much and the car itself is much, much more special. Not the mention the excellent value. Buy yourself a gently used 9-3 rag top today and find a trusted Saab shop, it will bring you years of happy top down motoring and attract lots of envy eyes.
Electrical issues
tonyb, 09/03/2010
2004 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
Overall, I love the car, but problems with electrical. Latest is left blinker won't go off. 1100 at the dealer to fix.
Nothing else is even close
senko555, 03/20/2010
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
25 of 31 people found this review helpful
I am a used car dealer and like cars a lot but cannot compare anything else with my Saab. Bought used one with 60k and now at 120k cost of my repairs are $0. When driving cars like accords or Camry from auctions I just cannot understand way people like them so much. Will never own any other brand for sure. I am sorry to hear that other people have some problems. Just change oil every 8k and transmission oil at 90k with coils and be happy that own one of best cars around. There is no timing belt to worry about either (timing chain) good for life time of vehicle. Still original battery after 7 years and 120k. Last year one Saab was retired because of over 1,000,000 miles. I hope this will be helpful.
Not as bas bad as the reviews suggest
annonymours, 12/18/2005
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This is the 3rd saab I've owned and the first since GM took over. All my Saabs have been good to me as far as reliability goes. I've never had any problems and have only had to replace tires in addition to routine maintenance. My only complaints about my 9-3 is that for the price, it should have more performance/HP and the interior material quality is noticeably inferior to my older 2000 9-5 wagon. Braking and cornering on this car are excellent. Acceleration is not, but it handles well at higher speeds and on the highway. You can probably get more out of a car for the same price, but it won;t look as good. As for the reliability of my saab 9-3, I have no complaints.
An underated fun car to drive
anthony, 10/03/2009
2004 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
Unfortunately Saab gets bad press here in the States. This is a fun car to drive, handles well and the one fact overlooked is it's a safe car with many safety features for a convertible. I've owned many cars over the years and drove as much. The seats (where you spend most of your time) are extremely comfortable unlike the BMW convertible. A virtual maintenance free car that's a pleasure to own and drive.
Oh my
johnstone48, 07/03/2008
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Good looking. Nice lines. Horrible electrical system. Just had to get seatbelt replaced for $675. Are you kidding me? My first and last Saab. Too many bothersome electrical problems such as sunroof, saab infotainment, security system, etc. It's a shame because it's a great looking car but the little issues keep me from coming back.
Wasn't impressed at all
Steve, 08/01/2007
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I have been back to the dealership 8 times in the last 3 months. Here is a list of problems: 1. security lock system failure 2. electronic stability control failure 3. turbo failed at 37k miles 4. outside temperature sensor broke 5. Needed to add oil in between oil change 6. loud clicking sound when making sharp turns.
People Smiler
jtp, 01/28/2004
2004 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
This is my 3rd Saab, though first in 20 years. Never owned a car that made people break into big smiles before, though I suspect the electric lime/yellow has a wee bit to do with it. (What's the point in owning a conservative convertible, anyway?) Reluctantly traded in my 98 Jaguar XJR. Except for sheer power -- the Jag would get to 60 in 5.2 seconds -- the Aero appears far the better car. Tighter build, slick 6-speed, handles fabulously and the power curve suits the car well. Audis and BMWs are boring and dime-a- dozen in the Bay Area. They hold zero cachet. This car gets noticed (and I mean that in a positive way).
Score!
yowz, 07/16/2009
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Just bought a 2002 Volvo s60 2.4T about a month ago. Some lady totaled it for me by smashing into the passenger side. Was devastated until I found the Arc convertible. Went out and got this beauty and cannot believe how much of a better car it is! And I am paying about the same for a newer car with better handling, more horsepower and less mileage. Score.
Wife's first new cabrio
seanandmari, 06/30/2004
2004 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
We bought this car for my wife to drive while we are in Germany. The car is solid, fast, powerful, and a heck of a lot of fun to drive. Looked at Audi, Volvo, and BMW, and all seemed to lack the style of the Saab, plus everyone has a BMW or AUDI here. We live in the mountains and this car brings new life to the curvy roads. Great way to start and end a commute. That low-end torque and the Saab turbo beats the heck out of the competition on the flats/curves. The car handles corners, literally like it is on rails. The 6 speed manual is amazing and that extra gear helps on the Autobahns. Stereo sound is awesome, seats are confortable, quiet up to 100MPH
Love it when it's working
Kim, 03/04/2010
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
It is a beautiful car that is fun to drive...when everything is working which is seldom. The sunroof works when it feels like it as does the radio and CD player. Have replaced the master cylinder twice in a year and a half. The stability control went out to the tune of $700. The locks constantly malfunction. The brakes are always spongy. Have replaced a wheel bearing also. This is all in less than two years of owning it. I am considering trading it even though I owe money on it. I would never buy another Saab. I walk up to it and love it then get in and something isn't working again and I get angry. SAAB - Something's Almost Always Broken.
Never Again!
Mel Jonas, 08/01/2008
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
My wife and I purchased the car in April of 07 with 46,000 miles on it. She loved it until the repairs started. In one year and three months we have spent over $3000.00 in repairs. First thing that went was an input sensor on the auto tranny with 49,000 (covered under warranty). Next time the output sensor went out at 54,000 miles not covered. I went ahead and had the tranny flushed at the dealership at this time also. At 64,000 miles, total transmission failure to the tune of $2540.00. I talked to Saab myself took it as high as I could and they wouldn't help me at all. Saab file# 71- 649725108
Quirky, but awesome!
DaveM., 02/06/2008
2004 Saab 9-3 Aero 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I looked long and hard - BMW, Mustang, A4, Mini - the Saab ultimately was my favorite. I call it my Sensitive Swede - I've a handful of CELs, etc., (be sure to turn the car off when gassing up) but the dealer has been great, and even proactive with replacing some things. That said, what a ride - FAST, handles well, very comfortable. Beautiful design, great lines. I receive many compliments. This is a very sophisticated car, and daily I discover something new that impresses me.
Unreliable!! Unsatisfied owner
Saab Owner, 10/22/2006
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I've had my car a little over two years and now I've started to have problems. List of the problems I've encountered: computer chip in key not working - go to open car and won't unlock - had to get new keys programmed twice, tail lights went out - dealer stated it was due to the lights running all the time, left work one day and car wouldn't start - needed a new battery - dealership claimed it was due to the HOT weather, had to replace all four tires due to tread running thin before 2 yrs. If you have the a/c on high and need to accelerate to get on freeway car has no power... very sluggish. This wknd engine light came on... will take in Monday. Looking to trade it before warranty expires at 50k :(
disappointed and shouldnt be
whatever21, 12/20/2012
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
15 of 24 people found this review helpful
bought this one used in 2009. cd player broken. headlight wire harnesses broken. front spoiler fell off. paint peeling on control buttons. comfort fan replaced-$600. driver side spring broken-replaced- with new tire $1000. lock system always malfunctions. key fob disintegrated in my hands. cover on third brake light fell off. seat belt retractor just broke-recall item. i am waiting for the next thing to go wrong and i shouldnt be. the engine has been great. the ride is fun although the seats are uncomfortable. have been able to get good gas mileage 31 - 38 and thats what keeps me in it. if I had to do it over I wouldnt. if you're looking at saab used be careful
9500 Exciting Miles
Jwbania, 07/22/2004
2004 Saab 9-3 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Very nice car! Quite a looker both inside and out. Turns heads and gets comments. Great Factory wheels on the Aero! Turbo is fantastic for passing and handling is probably as good as it gets for a front wheel drive factory car. Hand to take it in once for a faulty air valve, but was a minor problem.
total disappointment
cedegirl, 07/01/2004
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
this is my 2nd saab. my first saab (2000 9-3) saved my life in a near death car accident, so i replaced it with this brand new saab (and my first brand new car). imagine my disappointment when the gas gauge broke 2 days after i had it, anthor month after that it broke again, then the locks broke and i couldn't shut my driver's side door, then the remote control stopped working, then the black plastic started pealing off the inside console, the gas gauge broke again... then to top it all off as i was going down the highway at 65mph the entire car just shut off - NO WARNING - it just stopped working. the car hass been in the shop 6 times in under 8 months!
Wonderful touring convertible
Bristol, 11/28/2007
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Very good mileage, extremely high fun-to-drive quotient, intuitive controls, plethora of options at a very reasonable lease or used-car purchase price. Many cold-weather features make it a true 4-season vehicle. Good trunk space for a convertible. Opening/closing top is a spectator event. Auto with manual shifting helps the acceleration and overcomes the lack of low-end torque. When turbo kicks in, the high-pitched whine and burst of speed is exhilarating. Comfortable seating, much-improved visibility. Safety features are industry-leading (popup rollbars, best crash test scores). Rear-seat access is improved, although seating is tight.
Love this car!
fledermaus98, 06/24/2008
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've had the Saab 9-3 for 4 years now and have loved every minute of it. There have been no major problems with this car and I have only had to do routine maintenance. The only gripe I have is that the silver plastic piece on top of the shifter came off (super glue fixed that!) and there was a rattle in the door which the dealer took care of promptly. The car handles like a dream and is very sporty. The gas mileage is also fantastic! I average 23 in the city (stepping on the gas pedal pretty hard) and 34 on the highway doing 75 to 80 miles an hour. I would not hesitate to recommend this car to anyone!
Fun and Safe
Judi, 02/02/2009
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my third Saab. I've only spent $140 on the car since purchased new. I drive it every day. Mileage is great on the highway (about 30 mpg) but on city streets it drops to the teens. A bit of trouble with the locks, and speakers not great in the 2004. Huge trunk but still prefer the old Saab hatchback (had my 1985 900 for 20 years). Safety features ahead of its time.
I smile each time I drive this car!
Haywire, 01/03/2004
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I couldn't be more happy with this 9-3 convertible! Got an excellent price and love the way it drives and looks. I do feel like an individual on the road...you really don't see too many of them! The safety features are empressive. A lot of attention to detail...smart designing.
2nd times a charm
Voelkner, 12/22/2006
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my second Saab. First was a 2000 9-3. Very quirky. Had a mind of its own. The 2004 is much better in many ways. Have driven this car for 2 and a half years w/o any major problems. Battery did die at 2 years; replaced under warranty. It was a stock battery, knew it would happen sooner or later. Also had a problem with tire wear; replaced at 50%. Otherwise, car has been very good. Gas mileage is great, seats are comfortable, trunk is huge.
Do research before you buy one!
Taylor Gray, 12/13/2009
2004 Saab 9-3 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Loved the car. Had every option that cars do now except nav system. Even had 6-speed manual! Had MANY problems. It was always driven on the highway and taken care of so it was about the quality of the materials. I had to replace lower left ball joint, both struts (and mounts), springs, the entire car computer, rain sensor, radio, seatbelt, & ignition. Don't get me wrong the car was a great car but I am a college student and it was difficult to pay for repairs. I suggest not buying one unless you plan to have repair bills & you KNOW you CAN pay them. Saab's going out of business & the company is only required to make parts 10 years after the car was made. Plan on not finding any parts by '13.
Yes, GM ruined Saab
The 'Mules, 11/20/2005
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Look at all of the poor reviews previously submitted and you basically have my review. I purchased my 3rd Saab, a 2004 9-3 Linear and what a disappointment. I knew GM had more input in this 9-3 than the previous models, but I still bought one. That's how loyal I was to Saab. Boy, was that a mistake. I've lost count of the number of times she's been in the shop; brakes, radio, transmission, rattles, doors unlocking by themselves, SID going blank, key replaced, etc., etc... I wish I could tell everyone who is considering a GM...er, Saab to NOT DO IT! Stay away. Don't let the image of the old Saab cloud your decision. PS: Saab no longer makes fighter planes - haven't for some time now.
I Love my car - but
Joe, 07/07/2008
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I now have a 2004 Arc convertible. I love the car but I want it to behave. I traded a 2003 sedan on the conv. I have put 2 transmissions at 45,000 and 49,000 miles in both cars. If it weren't for a great service department at the Saab dealer, I would be looking for another make of car. I hope the last tranny will be the last tranny I need.
Still Love it After All These Years....
Still Love It, 03/26/2010
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Versatile, luxurious, and quick. I drive this car for business--bringing clients along, making long trips, etc. and it's a comfortable and faithful performer. Given the choice between a 1 hour flight and a four hour drive, I drive. Great on the highway, quiet, powerful and safe. Oddly, I also use it to haul things. The roof rack goes on and off in minutes and can hold 220 pounds: that's a few sheets of plywood, or enough 2x4s to stud a new playroom for my kids. I also installed the towing hitch (myself) and occasionally hook up a trailer to gather/move antiques and such. And there's room for actual adults in the back seat for trips up to an hour. What more could I ask for?
A huge disappointment
OliverR, 10/15/2006
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
6 of 10 people found this review helpful
Just a terrible experience. The car has been into the shop more times than I can remember. A cylinder failed within 6 months, and it was in the shop for 3 days. Then months later it went in for an electrical problem that was burning the headlights out. The cup holder broke, the seat height adjuster broke, the center armrest broke, and it goes on. Just mediocre build quality. We can't wait to get rid of it, which is a great shame. It also doesn't drive very well with excessive body roll, and screechy tires. It's not a driver's car.
A Total Disappointment!
Saabing weekly, 06/24/2006
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I can't wait to get rid of this car. It has been a nightmare. Let's see... transmission, engine, and computer problems to name a few. Then there's the water leakage, cheap interior materials that break,defiant trunk lid, volume controls that don't work, and seat upholstry that comes off. What about the door locks that open on their own and the incompetent/hostile/indifferent dealer/corporate network? I am so regretful that I purchased this car. I can't believe that it is considered a luxury car. It clearly not in the same quality realm as its European neighbors.
80% Fun, 20% Headache
Marshall H, 05/20/2010
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Excellence: Good looks without being flashy. Superb power delivery, very smooth for a small displacement turbo. So quiet inside you forget its a convertible, comfy seats. Acceptable: "premium" sound system is mediocre at best. Tires break free pretty easily when accelerating from a stop into a turn, but with FWD kind of expected. Unacceptable: Spotty build quality results in buttons and interior surface's paint rubbing off. Electrical gremlins are a constant threat. Complexity of common tasks like resetting oil life monitor is way more difficult than it has to be. Saab-ness: Saab is often different just for difference sake. Like the "night panel" function.
Saturn with a price tag of BMW
GK, 09/18/2005
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
What a disappointment, this is what GM does with any company they buy/own, they Saturnize it! What this car is really worth shows it depreication, 2 years and your Sat.. sorry.. Saab is worth half what you've paid for it. In one word we lost a lot of money on this junk.
Mine all Mine
Chirpbird, 02/15/2008
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Very fun car to drive, and what's not to like about a convertible on Denver's sunshiney days? Driving in the light snow that Denver gets is another matter. Skids and slides a lot. Don't know if it's because I have performance tires or because it just can't handle snow.
First Month
ESB, 07/16/2004
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Love the car. Traded from a 2001 LS430 to this for something smaller, sportier, and more fun and we love it so far. Dealer experience was incredibly good. Great deal on a great fun car. My first SAAB and likely not my last based on my so far limited experience! Classy alternative to a Japanese car.
Dave's Saab
D&LG, 07/07/2004
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My wife and I have owned Saab's for 20 years from the old 900's to the 9000 CD's. Our family now has 3 Saabs and the 2004 9-3 Saab Convertible is the outright best we have ever purchased. This car handles like a dream the interior is even better than the 2003 model for comfort. The only thing I wish Saab would do would be to get rid of the funky cup holder in the dash. With all the features in this car that should not be there. I can't wait to see what comes out next in the new Saab line up. We are waiting for the new 9-7 SUV to come over to trade our SUV. Thank you Saab for an out right fantastic driving experience. Definately fun to drive.
Good Value
KCE, 08/28/2009
2004 Saab 9-3 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought my 9-3 Aero 4 years ago with 9k miles on the speedo. Now have 81k and I'm very surprised at how much I like this car. It's been very dependable, drives great and gets amazing gas mileage. I average 28 miles to the gallon and easily get 33 on the highway. I think these cars make a good value on the used market. Buy a used one with an extended warranty and you won't be disappointed.
A Sweet Auto
rnz, 09/25/2003
2004 Saab 9-3 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is a car for people who want some individuality rather than being just another BMW/Audi/Acura driver.
Super Fun, but a little rattly.
COGuy, 08/10/2004
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've put about 1700 miles on my new 9-3 in two months. Very responsive, fast, corners great. Very slight turbo lag, but 5-speed overcomes this. Back seats are a little small, especially for a baby seat (passenger seat has to be fairly far forward). During the 30-day checkup, I had them check out a "clank" noise from the front axle, but they could not duplicate the noise. Seems to happen whenever I back out of the driveway in the morning. I've also recently discovered strange rattling/buzzing noises coming from inside the door panels when going over 20 mph.
Fun to drive. Great feul economy
ND, 11/19/2008
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The car is extremely responsive, agile, and powerful. It has a great fuel economy (> 33 mpg on highway). The interior looks cheap and feel cheap (but not as bad as GM or Ford). The dealer has been very responsible. I had an A/C problem 3 weeks after the warrantee expired. The dealer picked up the bill. It has 4-year, 50000 mile warranty.
Great Value
Dr. Indianapolis, 11/17/2009
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
A wonderful value, handles like a champ in the snow. Very comfortable and fun to drive. Best seats I have ever sat in, HVAC is powerful. Only downside is the interior look (plastic), but that is superficial. Drives fast, turbo is cool, the car is very safe and a winner for value among all other makers (pay more for wood interior and nothing else). Indy Saab on 16th street is a great dealership with wonderful service.
Sold on Saab
misha90, 06/26/2004
2004 Saab 9-3 Linear 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my first Saab. With price of fuel rising if I keep my foot out of the turbo I get 30mpg. Corners better than my 79 Porsche(Audi)924. Turbo lag is almost imperceptible. Huge trunk for a car its size. Very quiet on the highway. I like the info display on dash more than I thought. Radio is way cool some stations it tells you the song that is playing. I am sold on Saabs. Bought my wife 9-5 wagon.
Brakes!!!!!!!!
Jurynotout, 04/12/2004
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I definitely enjoy driving this car, until I have to slow down or stop it. The brakes have been horrible from day one. They have "roared" and/or "squeaked" since I purchased the car. It is has been in the shop three times already. Also, the radio sometimes just goes out after starting my car. Only a high pitch sound remains. Overall: If they get the brakes working properly then I will like it. Currently, not so impressed with this car! Thinking I should have went with the BMW or Lexus.
Thank goodness for my S60
luvmys60, 06/30/2004
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought a brand-new 04 Saab 9-3 Arc in May and I was happy with my decision. Sadly, too many problems arose including a bad fuel pump - which had to be replaced. Because of the lemon law, Saab bought it back and I switched to a new S60 2.5T which feels better inside, drives the same, and has slightly more comfortable seats.
FUN FUN FUN!
DAN THE MAN, 10/22/2003
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
WITH A FAMILY OF FOUR AND A BUDGET I HAD TO LIVE WITH, THERE WEREN'T ALL THAT MANY CHOICES. THE AUDI A4 I TEST HAD A ROUGH RIDE, THE SEBRING JUST DIDN'T DO IT EITHER AND THE BMW WAS OVERPRICED. I TEST DROVE THE SAAB AND HAVE LOVED IT EVER SINCE. IT'S NOT GOING TO BEAT ALOT OF CARS IN RACES, BUT THAT S NOT WHAT I BOUGHT THIS CAR FOR. ITS A FUN TO RIDE CAR. SMOOTH, EASY CONTROLS AND ENOUGH ROOM FOR FOUR. IF YOU CAN'T BUY THE DODGE VIPER CONVERTIBLE (MY DREAM CAR), WELL THEN THIS IS A GREAT FUN CAR.
Unreliable!
Unhappy Saab Owner, 01/06/2010
2004 Saab 9-3 Arc 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought the car used towards the end of February, problems started within 3 months of owning. Some of the problems I experienced: fuel pump breaking, the radiator needing to be replaced,the security system failing not once but twice, battery dead, and the transmission failed at 60k AND 66k. Not only that but in the summer I got into my car and notice the floors were soaked. A pipe had backed up into my car, flooding it and ruining the electrical box under the seat. I brought it to Saab and they fixed the problem or so I had thought. The car is still damp and smells like mold. This car has been in the shop more than I have used it in the last 10 months!