Compared to many other brands and models it's a very reliable and easy to fix. What makes it easy is the great community we have around this brand., YT, FB and so on. Live long and prosper SAAB community ;-) BR SaabCars

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

I certainly agree :)

@barnhouseboiz9641

6 жыл бұрын

Reliability is ehh and they're a bitch to work on

@SubLimation7

6 жыл бұрын

I have 3, 2003 9-3 with 220k, 2009 9-3 tuned to stage 3 with 160k, 2008 9-3 with ~200k, and they all run great. But I actually change fluids... like transmission fluid every 6 months drain and fill. They are definitely easy to work on though, all you need is someone with a tech 2, and you can get "questionable" ones for cheap.

@coleholden8241

6 жыл бұрын

I have a 2006 Saab 9-3. Only thing that’s wrong with it is the ignition coils going out. It has 140k miles so it’s okay in my books, great car. $100 each for ignition coils though 😱

@marcmcclinchy9774

5 жыл бұрын

Speaking of a Saab community, I'm about to pull my motor apart because it seems to have a bad head gasket , so if you know anywhere I can get some advice or possible directions how to don't right I'd love to know before I just start tearing it apart

Great video for people who have experienced these issues. For some reason I have not experienced any other problem other than AC. ( I live in Finland so temperatures change from -30C to +30C). This summer - that we have have had 25C since May and now 30 all the time I thought the AC couldn't keep up with that - but next Monday I will have it charged up with new coolant.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Awesome :) I feel your pain with AC; it gets quite hot in Arizona over the summer!

Excellent review of Saab 9-3

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

First off great video. I feel lucky base on what I have read so far. I have 175,000 miles an the only some minor problems. Of course the normal wear and tear with the buttons peeling. My most troublesome is the that my head lights go out every 90 or so. The power streering is leaking, burn a little oil and some sweeking sometimes. This care has proformed great and it still looks new. I believe in P.M.'s I tend to stay on top of the maintenance to prevent things from getting out of hand.

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Awesome :)

I recently bought an 08 Saab 93 and it recently developed a cold start issue like you said, I had no idea what was causing it up until this point so thank you

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Good luck :)

@purpleflight9083

5 жыл бұрын

Peeling AC buttons let the interior down and drive me insane! Nice to know I can replace. Cold start was an issue for me too , summer months no problem . Brought my black 93 14 months ago with 73k on the clock, had been standing so had some faded sills and around wing mirrors which was easily fixed , so far spent twice what I paid for it but wouldn't part with it for the world ! Do get some shocked faces when some "guy's " realise it's a woman driving ;)

@BLA9235

4 жыл бұрын

Have a look at the fuel pressure regulator for issues with cold starts and in general issues upon starting the engine, sudden engine stop at red lights, miss fires, not starting after 5 sec or more, engine starts after 2 start attempt or jumping when reversing after cold start. Replace after 10000km, Cost about 50 dollars. Easy to replace by yourself about a 10 minute job

Thank you this was very helpful and gave me a lot of info of what I needed to know

@AutoAutopsy

3 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

#1 worst problem with the B207 is the bad intake valves for the 2007-09 years. GM fucked us bad. Over $2k to fix. There is also the coil springs that break. I replaced my front two. Brake vacuum pump and oil level sensor are now both leaking oil. It was so reliable until these sudden flurry of problems at 90k miles.

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Careful saying that. Those valves are only on 07-9 cars

@waverunner7063

5 жыл бұрын

Still a disaster. I'll modify my comment. I hate GM forever because of it among other reasons. BTW my 9-3 still rides really well for its age.

Got mine at 105k miles and now has 130k. Besides normal wear and tear items like tires, oil etc, I have replaced: Two front shock towers headlight bulbs twice AC climate control twice lower ball joints rear taillight bulbs

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Wow, thanks for sharing! Those headlight bulbs are annoying! LOL

Good job !! We to ; love Saab & try hard to keep as many as we can alive

@AutoAutopsy

4 жыл бұрын

yes! :)

@TheWidowsSon0357

3 жыл бұрын

You have a shop?

Possible Engine rebuilds a “minor problem “ LMAO .

@dragonsink6988

5 жыл бұрын

Must not know shit about cars if you think the rebuild is a major problem since these are damn near the easiest cars to rebuild lol

@Los_Chanchulleros

3 жыл бұрын

That was epic, a "minor problem" said by a teenager who has never disassembled an engine from a transmission.

@dw-ie2my

3 жыл бұрын

That’s not what he said but ok

1.9 tdi 2008 (UK) owner checking in. Thank you for your content

@AutoAutopsy

3 жыл бұрын

Happy to help 😁 thanks for the support

This guy is great. Has a terrific you tube channel. I have a 2008 Saab with only 42,000 miles. Love the car and trying to keep it up. At the moment, I am working on the re-conditioning of the plastic stuff around the car. Unfortunately, it is not garaged. Getting a rip in the driver’s front seat trim repaired too. Not cheap.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Thank you Bert :) Good luck with your saab and it's repairs!

@billj3cub

5 жыл бұрын

I found a place on eGay, esaabparts, that sold me a brand new OEM drivers seat bottom leather cushion for my nice 2009 for $180. It is not an Aero and no front map pocket even though my stock leather had a map pocket I don't miss it. Not too hard to install. For my my 2006 with 240k miles I just found a matching passenger seat that looked like no one ever sat in it and switched the leather over to the drivers side. It took a little custom cutting of holes for the power seat controls but once I put it all back together you would never know it came from the passenger side. I have done a number of passenger/driver upholstery swaps and they all came out very nice. Buying a passenger seat can be a good way to go because they are always in better shape and the demand, and therefore price, is lower because... they are always in better shape!

I would say everything breaks, but not to much money to fix, engine runs strong still, turbo has its bad and good days. fun car and takes corners better then any other car i drove(invest in good rubber!) Saab 9-3 2.0L 215000KM

@SW-ni8ls

2 жыл бұрын

@Jimmy Geyer how many miles have you done before these problems started to appear

Thanks for this. I had a clockspring break. It’s inside the CIM. The cim still recognizes the key and the car will start, but the electrical to the steering wheel is not working, so no horn or airbag. The import mechanic told me the entire CIM will have to be replaced and reprogrammed.

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

sounds about right, sorry to hear...

@calebsengineeringprojects6202

3 жыл бұрын

I've never tried taking a CIM apart. Is the clockspring not something you can replace?

@richardburchett

3 жыл бұрын

@@calebsengineeringprojects6202 I have since found a clockspring that can be replaced without having to replace and reprogram the CIM. Good outcome. It was just an issue of wiring coming loose inside the clockspring.

The same timing chain, coil pack, and fuel level sensor issue is common on all the other 4 Cylinder GM vehicles from 2002 to 2008. I've dealt with these same issues including the "Ignition switch of death" which is similar to the (CIM issue) on my 07 Saturn Ion, and the coil pack issue on my mom's former 03 Ion. Had a friend had all the issues in your video accept for the button fading issue, on his 06 Chevy Cobalt SS.

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Very interesting. Makes sense, given they have they same block

Yes! The clicking recirc servo is annoying! Luckily, I have never had a CIM problem on my 07, or 10 9-3. I do have a tech2 so I’m ready! OEM coils are the best! My intake valves are rocking my 07, but good on my 2010. I understand that Saab had a surplus of bio-diesel valves that they decided to get rid of and put them into the 9-3 petrol cars. They can’t take the heat of petrol, I understand. My next head gasket job I will replace the intake valves. Great video, Jacob! Hope to see you in a future Saab convention if it’s near me in NY state, someday!

My APC valve on my B207R failed and left me with (0,3 bar or 4,5 psi) of boost. Also had some issues not getting the coolant up to temperature. Turned out to be the temperature sensor in the engine that was faulty. Easy fixes but still kinda annoying.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

An issue I have seen with mine (aside from the fuel sensor) is many times I start the car and have to give it gas right away just to get going. It is often times not a crispy start. Might just be me, but I do have a little nerves going almost every time I start it just based off the feel of it and how it sounds when it starts. lol.

@AutoAutopsy

4 жыл бұрын

is it a 07-09? could be intake valves as i've heard that's a common symptom of those going back on those model years; not certain by any means tho so take that with a grain of salt

Had my Saab 2005 convertible since 2007. I have replaced all of those items mentioned. Had 38,000mi when I bought. Currently has 150,000 mi and going strong. I believe the previous owner did not take care of it. I've used "BG" fluid additives since I bought it and two transmission flushes using same product. My Saab performs better now than ever before. Just love my Saab.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Nice :)

Great video. Thank you!

@AutoAutopsy

4 жыл бұрын

thanks!

Helpful! Thank you!!!

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

:)

Just wish the metal key could also start the car that would be dope. Love the 9-3 awesome video brother.

@AutoAutopsy

4 жыл бұрын

thank you!

@elliottmack1887

2 жыл бұрын

I guess im randomly asking but does any of you know of a way to log back into an instagram account..? I stupidly forgot my password. I would love any tips you can offer me.

@jeremiahjase6041

2 жыл бұрын

@Elliott Mack Instablaster :)

@elliottmack1887

2 жыл бұрын

@Jeremiah Jase I really appreciate your reply. I found the site thru google and Im in the hacking process now. Seems to take a while so I will reply here later with my results.

@elliottmack1887

2 жыл бұрын

@Jeremiah Jase it did the trick and I actually got access to my account again. I'm so happy:D Thank you so much you really help me out :D

This is pretty spot on! only thing you could have mentioned was window regulators lol. Replaced 2 in my 08 and they broke within a week...

@davidstorm4015

6 жыл бұрын

If you want to worry about window regulators, get an Audi TT, they fail on almost very car

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Yeah, I had one go bad on the passenger door!

OK so now I'm addicted to your channel, thanks for completely making me a couch potato. :) Seriously I love your videos. Looked at a used 2006 9-3 LInear yesterday being sold by a non-Saab (obviously) dealer with 148K km. After starting the car, "Locking System Failure" message on dash (notification center above radio). Dealer, in wanting to sell car, said it's "just a switch that needs to be reset", however checking videos here it seems like it involves taking off the door panel and fixing it that way. So... should I avoid this car? He's asking too much money anyway but the car drives spectacularly. Thank you.

@AutoAutopsy

4 жыл бұрын

haha, thank you for the comments! could be a simple door lock! if he's asking too much, consider waiting on another car. they come up cheap very often!

Door lock actuators, ignition switch (I’ve had to do one one every 9-3 I’ve had), and water pump should all be added to this list hahaha

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

Just wanted to add a comment about the "ticking" sound re: the recirculation motor problem. I had this in my 2007 9-3. I took the motor apart and found broken gear teeth inside the motor housing - so it wasn't a problem with the motor itself - it was broken teeth on the main gear inside the case. My fix was to remove the gear and "reclock" it. It's a circular gear, but contact is made only on a portion of the teeth - so I took the gear out and rotated it so the portion with the broken teeth doesn't make contact with the other gear.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@dallan7740

5 жыл бұрын

I also did this. Total price of the fix was the cost of a drop of superglue.

@TBezak

5 жыл бұрын

got same problem, need to locate this motor housing, how to get to it?

@NickKokkinos

5 жыл бұрын

Do you have any documentation/instructions/video on how to access it (and fix it) ?

@TBezak

5 жыл бұрын

..?

Great video. Very informative. Can you do another video on Saab 95 Aero 2.3T most common problem? Did you have an video talking about this 2.3T engine reliability and common problem? Many thanks sir!

@AutoAutopsy

4 жыл бұрын

yep! Right here: kzread.info/dash/bejne/a4p-y7xupNmqodo.html

i have an 09 saab 93 1.8t sport combi, i have done almost 20,000miles in 9mths of ownership. Nothing so far has failed,. it drives remarkably well. I have now modified the motor....bigger turbo, induction kit, exhaust, re-map..........Awsome. oh, bigger brakes also.! has now a total of 87k miles. Will keep you updated.

@AutoAutopsy

3 жыл бұрын

awesome!!

dont forget about the typical cracks in the leather drivers seat

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

That's just a wear and tear thing that happens from sun damage, use, and age. All leather seats have that problem

@andrewlaw

5 жыл бұрын

@@AutoAutopsy And if you feed the seats with leather conditioner every 6 months it largely doesn't happen. It takes 15-20 mins and costs a couple of bucks of conditioner.

@twisted.illusions

5 жыл бұрын

Lack of care/maintenance.

@fixitup2193

5 жыл бұрын

@@twisted.illusions the sun will kill leather regardless.....

@klein2042

5 жыл бұрын

My mother’s Acura has that problem worse than my Saab. I think that’s just leather in general

just picked up an 03 with failing power steering pump seal... and clicking steering rack u joint already replaced most of the plastidip buttons

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Nice!

I second the coils and balance chain tensioner/guide.. The coil packs suck regardless of top color, already replaced mine twice, both times with black tops. Luckily when my tensioner and guide went, the chain slipped right off my water pump so I was able to find the culprit pretty easy. If you hear that rattle from your balance chain, fix that ASAP!

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the tip! At least you got it all squared away

I had a 1997 900 SE.. loved it but now I have a an ‘08 93 2.0T. Going to look out for the intake valve issue

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Nice! Good luck

We just identified the tensioner problem, and now I think I experienced the catastrophic problem to which you referred. :(

@AutoAutopsy

4 жыл бұрын

:(

8/8 confirmed. RIP.

@AutoAutopsy

4 жыл бұрын

:(

It's like you've seen my 2008 9-3 history! I had failures with the yellow coils, the intake valves were SO bad in my car they chipped and broke resulting in not just a valve job as was originally though, but my entire engine needed to be replaced. Here we are three years later and my fuel level sensor is dead (I do it by mileage) and will need to get it replaced as well as a mystery stutter upon acceleration which needs attention. I love Saab but man, it's costing me a fortune!

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Haha, wow! By 2008 they had phased out the yellow top coils; how did yours end up with them?

@superdude7459

2 жыл бұрын

Wow sorry to hear that man 😯

Had the problem with CIM myself, it somehow shorted out when I disconnected my battery to charge it after it died during cold season (-25 C). Total pain in the ass, car ignition locked up, steering wheel locked up, had to tow it to a repair shop to replace CIM for a total of around 300 euro. Was parked in a tight parking lot when it all happened, and since steering was locked up I had to spot the parking lot for few days before I could actually call a tow guy.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Oh no :( sorry to hear about that..

Electric window mechanism drivers door

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

I had an issue with the passenger a while back...pain to fix!

@trevordvids

6 жыл бұрын

Gotta fix mine rn before I sell it....I'm gonna miss her.

@DesertSessions93

5 жыл бұрын

They couldn't have made it more difficult to remove and fix could they?

@CardboardSliver

5 жыл бұрын

Rear door lock actuators

@Endzeit2014

4 жыл бұрын

same with my E46(bmw), my best machine was the B234R(aero)with the best seats in the world:-)

Literally, almost everything you mentioned happened to my '06 9-3. I ended up buying a '93 c900 turbo instead XD

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Not a bad replacement by any means!

@CTR207

6 жыл бұрын

Alec Ferland oh you bought a real Saab well done sir ,

also vapor canister purge valve, water pump especially on the B207s, the electronic throttle body, and the turbo solenoid valve, I had all of those go out on almost all of my Saabs

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for adding these, Derek

@DerekChabrow

5 жыл бұрын

@@AutoAutopsy maybe your next video, but you may want to consider doing a vid on basic mnt for saabs, especially those past or approaching 120k, if you look at KBB recommended 120k mnt list for saab 9-3, it is rather interesting and quite long.

I've had the balance chain replaced. Before i had it replaced it sounds and feels like its buzzing when you rev the engine. Luckily i know a good mechanic who knows Saab's inside out and didn't charge me too much to replace it.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Good to hear! Hopefully it won't happen again

I love my sabb 9'3 but it's been hell every since I got it..my sun roof went out first,then ac, now my valve gasket is leaking..no one wants to buy it so I'm stuck with it🙁🙁

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

I'm sorry :/ Wish I could help...

Tail light bulb harnesses melt or corrode I've noticed on multiple models

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@jetsamperes5762

5 жыл бұрын

On the 9-3's with the 'ice' tail lights - they require a special red bulb. If you use the wrong bulb it will melt the housing.

@CardboardSliver

5 жыл бұрын

Or the coloured plastic falling off cause old glue

I love my car and I loce your channel, great video. I would add the problem with the ECU Module touching the engine, a peace of rubber can solve it

Yep, dealing with two of these issues right now- recirculation motor and peeling interior buttons.

@AutoAutopsy

Жыл бұрын

😩😩

Seatbelts not retracting back after use, Passenger window malfunctioning, Key not recognized issues, electrical issues, AC problems and then some I loved my saab 9-3 but ditched it as i was getting tired of constantly having to deal with bs

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing; unfortunately it sounds like yours was abused before you bought it

@Andreas16375

6 жыл бұрын

Auto Autopsy it probably was, But whenever i’d search up any issue i was having i always found several sources saying it was a common issue, I feel like there should be a limit for how many common issues a car can have

@spectralcav

5 жыл бұрын

A tip for the seatbelts if they don't retract - pull the belt all the way out and spray along the length with trim restorer (silicon spray stuff for making black bumpers etc look black again). They'll work like new. Probably best to leave them overnight before use in case you get any on your clothes though!. Even better, pull the b-pillar trim off and clean all the dust and cr*p out from around the mechanism and then also do the above.

No malfunctioning door lock???

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Haven't heard of that yet..

@CardboardSliver

6 жыл бұрын

Oh goodness yes. My passinger door is 50/50 when wanting to work. Same with driver rear. Passinger rear is dead, so it's manual lock/unlock only.

@jamestompkins7816

5 жыл бұрын

tom soder has happened on mine too hahaha

@rythmn2818

5 жыл бұрын

Happened to my pops car lmao

@KohanaCoyote

5 жыл бұрын

I’ve heard of that issue and my drivers door will only do it from time to time so I’m keeping my eye on it

Suffered from the intake value issue, my mechanic found the issue when he was running a compression test. Google that night suggested the problem. We ended up replacing all of the intake values, as they were all showing similar signs of wear. This tends to manifest around 100K miles, but depending upon temperature could be +/-20k. One of my earlier Saabs also had the power steering problem, though frankly I hadn't noticed any issue until the car failed its government test. I had the steering fluid topped up that night, passed the test first thing the next morning and the sump was dry by day end - believe me I noticed it then, having enjoyed a few hours of power assisted driving!

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Wow, thanks for sharing all of that!

@neilharbott8394

6 жыл бұрын

No worries - have had 5, 4 leases, and this last I've owned from new. Was lucky enough to attend the Saab Aero Academy the last year it ran and was opened to all Saab owners, not just the Aero owners. You could say I'm a fan.

@rjbflies1570

5 жыл бұрын

Do you recall how much it cost to replace the intake valves? I'm likely going through this same issue now... :/

Great video many thanks

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Where did you get your Saab shirt from? I want one

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Got it at Saab Onwer's Convention this year :) not sure if you can buy this one specifically online

You better turn that frown upside down or I will cry :(

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

:( --> :)

@historyofsaabcars3192

6 жыл бұрын

Auto Autopsy :)

@bobvansand6346

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks lot! My warm air regulation of my 2000. Saab 93. Airstream is at my feet, the inner rod has no contact with the inside, easy fix? Thx bob I dont like the plasticisch GM STUFF.! My saab 900 has much better materials! Like saab 93 overall though, as well,

@radadaniel2726

5 жыл бұрын

Hi there, please I have saab 93 from 2004 and I have one problem, she show me in display "cooling liquid is low refill now" I don't know how, and and the heater no working when I put for hot...please explain me what can I do , thank you

@Freak.Studios

5 жыл бұрын

@@radadaniel2726 this probably means add more antifreeze to the radiator reservoir

I... might just have figured out why my engine is ticking like that. Damn. Might as well do new timing set since I'm already going there. Thx man.

@AutoAutopsy

2 жыл бұрын

:)

There are about 10 known problem spots with the 9-3...same as my 2008 9-5. The valve issues on the 07-09 is the scariest. After the front end of my 9-5 was damaged, I was shopping for a 9-3 Combi, and was looking at the 2006 or 10-11 models because of that issue. Ended up repairing my 9-5.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Wow, yep

you could have added amp1 (under seat) worst possible spot for such thing with air went holes

@joellofquist2537

6 жыл бұрын

wygekas pekla I know my 05 arc had it under the seat the 06 I have I believe it was removed... fflood car.. but that one was under the seat my 07 I don't think has the amp under the seat...

@SJSOmar

6 жыл бұрын

joel lofquist correct 07 doesn’t have the amp 1 under the seat I think they removed the whole optic fiber deal with these cars since they tend to go bad I have an 07 9-3 2.0T

@joellofquist2537

6 жыл бұрын

Saabrito 07 2.8 aero😍

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Good addition!

@msanseverino78

6 жыл бұрын

I think almost every one gets that one . My 04 arc had that issue . The Bose system in my 09 aero is way better .

Dang I wish I had a good friend who had the knowledge you do to walk through some of the issues mine has

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

I'm no expert, haha

@purpleflight9083

5 жыл бұрын

Same here , 2 months after I brought mine the interior fan stopped working , took it to a garage and I think the guy though woman here "money" he said I needed to replace the whole thing ! Good job i asked for my old parts before i paid , it was only the banana shaped relay (if that's what it's called) replacing, needless to say I dont use that garage anymore but not before I had replace back disc pads and calipers, front arms , rod ends , drop links hand brake cables list goes on .....just to stop this knocking noise , which never got fixed till a yr later and turned out to be the rubbers in the mid section holding exhaust were perished grrrrr And to add the labour to the fan being replace , when its 3 plastic screws ? To drop the glove box, an 10 min job I had looked up before hand was told hour and half work .

I have an ‘04 9-3 with 150,000 miles on it and I have experienced nearly all these issues in the comments. Amp1, broken heated driver seat, door lock issues, key issues, broke my shark fin antenna, cracked leather in my driver seat only, peeling buttons, taillight harness burning up, vacuum lines coming loose, CD player stopped working, changing the time on the clock is extremely difficult because the knob doesn’t work as it should, and most recently throttle body issues. Despite its many issues I’ve always loved the car, but I must admit the issues are rather annoying. I’ll certainly appreciate when I get a new daily that has less annoyances with an equally luxurious and sporty feel.

@GnastyPaul

5 жыл бұрын

forgot to add window switches as well lol. Makes going through drive-thrus a pain in the ass

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Well, glad you've still enjoyed it through the repairs! haha

@333cparker

6 күн бұрын

Still have that SAAB ? LOL. if not what have you replaced it with?

I have a 2007 9-3 60th w/ 144k mileage. Front springs/struts have busted several times - (Detroit roads really really suck). I believe that was a recall on some model years but not '07. I had the steering pump and vacuum seal issue, the fuel level sensor. Have to replace halogen headlight lamps 2x a year. Overall its been a great car and is serviced regularly. Almost 12 years old and has most of its factory parts. The first '07 9-3 I leased was a complete lemon though. Had to replace the spark plugs with every oil change. That car left me stranded twice. First time was towed back to dealer with 1,500 miles on it. Dealer could never find the cause of why they would foul out so frequently. Blamed cold starts, bad fuel, user error (it was my 3rd 9-3). Got rid of it at lease end & bought the current 9-3 in 2009. Never had that issue again.

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

It was probably your coil packs, not the spark plugs

My power steering was leaking bad, more than just an annoyance. The mechanic told me it would cost anywhere from $500-$1300 to fix. I pulled the reservoir and replaced that o-ring as well as the copper washers on the banjo bolt on the line and it seems to have fixed my issues. When I was in there I did notice a broken check valve so I replaced that as well as the line also. I think I spent ten bucks total on parts and got it back up and runningl

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Awesome! I was going to say that that's a gross overestimation for that repair. Glad you got it done yourself and saved money

@deedowdell5347

5 жыл бұрын

Where did you find the o-rings and the copper washer?

Hello ! I have a saab and I want to change the steering weel with a similar one. Can I do that and keep the same key? Thank you !

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Did you send me a DM on instagram? I messaged you there :)

Thanks for the great information. Key problems sometimes solvable by getting some WD40 in the workings as debris in it over time can mess up the contacts and it doesn't recognise you have turned the key. I have a 2007 1.8T converted to gas. Recently had problems with it cutting out after about 15 mins and then engine turns and won't start for about 5-mins been checking through the lpg system but wondered if anything else can cause this problem when the engine gets hot.

@AutoAutopsy

3 жыл бұрын

I couldn't give you a confident answer based off of that info; I would advise posting in a facebook group or searching forums

@davejohnston5158

3 жыл бұрын

@@AutoAutopsy Thanks for your response. I've decided to replace filters and service the lpg system for potential fuel starvation and ECU shutdown response and see where that goes. Thanks for your videos I've had 3 saabs and I just think they are well built and underrated but as they get older they become a bit of a challenge for the home mechanic.

On the NG 9-3, in regions with moisture, the bottom coil on the front coil springs would break all the time. Saab was even replacing them for free out of warranty for a time. Also, the thrust bearings on top of the front coil springs were a common failure. Window regulator cable/pulley failure, headlight bulbs, front sway-bar links, wiper transmission linkage, front sidemarker lens leakage, rear brake calipers, are some more common issues on the NG 9-3.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Wow, thank you for sharing!

@zachbrumm9020

3 жыл бұрын

I have a 2003 saab 9-3 2.0T with an engine from an 06 9-3 2.0T and on cylinder 1, 3, and 4 i have around 175 psi of compression, but on cylinder #2 i have absolutely zero compression... did i crack my piston and/or blow my piston ring???

@saabtech3510

3 жыл бұрын

@@zachbrumm9020 Usually on the '06 engines it was a valve problem. But not usually zero compression. A tech can run air into the cylinder and see if it comes out the valves or bottom end.

The only problem on this list I have encountered with my 9-3 is the wear on the plastic, even though my car has gone many many miles.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Nice! I think there's a couple years in there that are sort of a "sweet spot," where you won't encounter problems such as the intake valves or coils

@babanarr3311

6 жыл бұрын

Alexander Nilsson 156,000 miles and counting.. and the seat has worn out on the drivers door side on my car. 9.3 tti. Still very smooth and fast.

Always blame Chevy always. 🤣🤣🤣.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Lol!

@Alonso-xo8pu

6 жыл бұрын

Sinister.Shelby blame killer mustangs

@noecazares7549

5 жыл бұрын

Lmao who says that

Excellent video

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks John!

Thanks buddy !!

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

:)

Headlights going out

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

for sure :(

The shark fin antenna is also a problem also the emblem fading :(

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Ah yes, the emblems are a PAIN!

@corni1947

5 жыл бұрын

I bought new emblems on ebay for under £5

Im a mechanic and have worked alot with Saab 9-3 ss or sc. The only common issues I've came across is front springs breaking and a CIM unit once in a while :)

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

@andrewlaw

5 жыл бұрын

Springs going is rife amongst all cars these days. The quality of them is nowhere near they were like even 10 years ago. That and there's a proliferation of speed humps battering the crap out of them.

The intake valves are cheap but require the top half of the motor to be rebuilt, very expensive. My local Saab specialist says it would be a recall if Saab existed today. I've had some these issues. Overall very reliable for a car that is ten years old such as mine.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

I agree!

@OtayBuckwheat

11 ай бұрын

2005 up has cheap valves so find an 04 head to rebuild.

You forgot about the airbag light and message.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

And the "passenger seatbelt" sensor is a tad annoying...

@Lasaron97

6 жыл бұрын

i removed the magnet from the seatbelt latch sensor, istead of trying to fix the weight sensor in the seat. so much easier

@NickKokkinos

5 жыл бұрын

Try dissconect and reconnect the little black wire under the driver seat. That fixed my airbag problem. It becomes loose when moving the chair too fast

As a very active Saab member in sweden, never heard of, or very little, the problems you described (except the tear on buttons). When they key mechanism doesn't work it is actually much more common the module for the key itself is the problem, not the CIM module. There are some sprints that are gliding when turning the key that could collect dust and make bad contact, open it up and cleaning usually fix the problem. The fuel gage is more of a 9-3 OG problem. A fuel cleaner addon could actually fix that problem for good. Did that to my 9-3 OG, it was good for another 9 years and then I sold the car, still working after the fix. Commons issue on 9-3 would be; Front springs Amp1 Battery drain (because of amp1/cd-changer/icm), mainly the 2003 models. Broken heated seat

@saabtech3510

6 жыл бұрын

Here in the states the fuel sender is extremely common on the NG 9-3. I personally have changed dozens. The pumps last though, and would I not replace it unless extremely high mileage. On the OG 9-3, on the other hand, rarely did the senders go, but the fuel pumps failed like clockwork at around 128K miles.

@antonypost19

6 жыл бұрын

The power steering pump leaks are very common, along with leaking vacuum pumps. I work at a Saab specialist shop in Los Angeles and I'll tell you I change about 10-15 vacuum pumps(if the customer is lucky it's just the rear seal leaking and a new gasket will solve the problem.) But if the front seal is leaking oil it's very likely that you'll need to replace the pump all together, you could attempt to seal the original one back up(possible RTB gasket maker) but I would not trust that repair at all.

awsome and very informative video :) i have a 2.0t 93 myself and am very happy with it. and this video where very helpfull in making me know what to be caustious for.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Keep enjoying it :)

Thank you for this pimp buddy! I think I was #2000 to like this video

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Lol thanks!

No mention of throttle body?? No mention of waterpump?? No mention coil springs???

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

I know the water pump is a ridiculously difficult job on thee motors..

@znorc

6 жыл бұрын

Some problems may be quite localised. Here in Sweden we go through coil springs like there's no tomorrow, but that seems to be common for a lot of modern cars. Interesting that the 9-5 doesn't suffer from the problem at all. While we're adding things to the list I'd like to contribute the engine ECU on the 4-cyls. They fail after a few years of use.

@randaldandal4894

6 жыл бұрын

www.eeuroparts.com/blog/7053/10-saab-9-3-common-problems/

@granitepwnz6658

6 жыл бұрын

I've done the water pump... twas ridiculous. I have the level sending issue now and need to replace the clutch. Also my buttons are illegible lol my AC blower motor squeals on lower settings and cabin filter box leaked water in the passenger floor

@jamestompkins7816

5 жыл бұрын

tom soder yea my throttle body has went out 3 times all with the same issue... on start up sometimes will rev way up running rough then go into limp mode till I clear it.. happens every week or so. Water pump had a tinyyyy leak. And ecu has been replaced once now throwing po245 and p0201-204

The hardest part about fixing the cim. Is getting windows xp😄

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Lol

Crankshaft Position Sensor... apparently it's pretty common. Bought my SAAB 9-3 Vector 2005 two days ago and it wouldnt start when I left the supermarket today. After some research I came to the conclusion that it's the CPS. Ordered a new one for 50 euro. Hoping it solves the problem.

Gas gauge is the number 1 issue along with the airbag malfunctions, they did do a recall on the airbags but never recalled the gas gauge for some dumb reason. I also found that the window switch on the drivers door to be malfunctioning too. They tend to go bad and nit let you roll the passenger side window down but will roll it up...... the worst one I've delt with so far is the battery drain issues from an electrical short in the steering column, and the key slot sticks down draining the battery over nite

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing. Airbag recall is definitely something to get addressed

@dragonsink6988

5 жыл бұрын

@@AutoAutopsy no problem. I would also like to add about the airbags that when you have them replaced make sure that they dont just reset the ecm to clear the code because some of the replacement air bags are bad, I ran into this issue and had to drive 4 hrs back to the dealership to have them replace the "new" airbag because it was malfunctioning and draining the battery, it's something to make sure of immediately because they wont fix it after 7 days for most places.

lmao my saab has 6/8 of these problems...

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

:(

You sound so depressed. You okay man?

@jorgezaldivar184

6 жыл бұрын

bad tiddy his videos are good but he sounds so depress.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Lol, I had just woken up form a nap! Probably wasn't the best time to film

I have a 2008 9-3 (B207R) and it’s my 3rd Saab. I’m at 116,000 miles and overall and having little to no issues. I am keeping an eye on compression, but have had NO issues when cold. I am having a hot start issue. For example, the car gets up to temperature while I arrive at my destination, such as a store or a restaurant. I can back to the car within half an hour (it only does it when car is off for 20-40 min, yes that short of a window) It will crank over fine but then die. If I give it a little bit of gas it will spotter slightly and then it will stabilize. I want to say it’s a crankshaft position sensor, or fuel pressure regulator. It strikes me as very weird that it only does it within that window of time, any shorter and it will start just fine in any later it’ll start just fine. It’s not bothering me a lot but it is kind of annoying

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Maybe; how about your alternator...? Just a guess though

Thanks for all you tips on Saab. I have a Saab 9-3 2007, and having blue smoke issues. Sometimes its does it sometimes not. I notice that if I warm up the car, the smoke stops and no problem afterwards. I have changed the oil and sparks plugs. Was thinking of adding an oil leak sealer but not sure if it will help. I did a little investigating and found what seems like a seep or oil coming out from a mount connection just below the turbo which i believe is the connection from the catalytic converter to engine. I can see oil seeping out but once the car is warmed up, the leak stops. I search online and could not find any details or same issues with other Saab owners. Any advice before, i take it to a shop and spend a ton of money. I was hoping this is a DIY project that i can solve by myself. I do have some mechanical skills but the lack of info if oil should be there or not is what I'm uncertain. Thanks

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Wish I could help but I’m not completely certain. Join Saab owners USA, saabs of America, and Saab 9-3 owners on Facebook and ask there!!

No mames pues la mayoría de las cosas que mencionas les ocurre a todos los autos es normal

@juanitosuriel6931

4 жыл бұрын

Sorry Memo,esto no les pasa a la mayoria de carros, a la mayoría de los carros europeos si es verdad que son basura, soy mecanico por mas de 25 años y se lo que te digo.Si quieres un carro o troka que dure y dure trata toyota or honda.

My Turbo has just blown on my SAAB 93... That was my 4th SAAB 93..great cars... Think this time I will try the 95 out.. Although my Hayabusa is still running fine just now so I still have wheels..

@AutoAutopsy

4 жыл бұрын

nice!

I would add the SAI pump on MY2003. An also the exterior details fading and cracking on the MY2003-2007 (mirror base, door handles, antena).

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Definitely the SAI!

The peeling buttons was not a Saab problem, but a GM problem. This issue has been around since the 90's! I had several late 90's GM vehicles (Chevy, Pontiac) with the peeling buttons. The worst was on a '02 Cadillac.

I got a issue with my SCL how should i change this part i have changed the CIM and the ISM but i cant find anything about the SCL change

Very useful 👍

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

:)

excellent

@AutoAutopsy

4 жыл бұрын

:)

I am a saab fanboy also. I have a 9-5 aero and a 9-5 linear. Anyways I had pretty much every single problem on this list. Side note, I know a guy here in wisconsin who has 9 saabs. Including 3 Viggens. I am shocked as there was only ever 493 of them imported to USA

Can you do a B204(i) one? I'm curious what the biggest differences are. Anyways, keep up the good work!

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Just smaller turbo I believe

@tubytje

6 жыл бұрын

Auto Autopsy B204 is completely different from the B207 engine the i has no turbo at all. But I was wondering about the 9-3 OG common problems. Especially with the B204 engine

I have a 2006 saab 93 2.ot.. i love this car.. it has around 160000 and when i try to start it. It makes a whinning sound and wouldnt start.. i thought it was the starter because my battery was good..Well replaced the starter and it still does it... whinning sound and wont start

@AutoAutopsy

4 жыл бұрын

I would post about this on a Saab Facebook group. Best chance to get a helpful answer!

I've had some of those issues in my 2003 9-3 - fuel level sender, broken balance shaft guide, buttons rubbing off, leaky PS pump (easy fix) plus electric seat memory loss and sometimes the auto levelling headlights are too high. Rear upper suspension arms recently and the front wishbones need doing soon.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Huh, wow!

@hyperion8008

6 жыл бұрын

The PS pump was leaking where the top hose thing screws in - there's a rubber washer in there that had got old and leaky. It wasn't the actual hearing seal luckily.

My key quit working, what it ended up being was the transmitter in the key, i was able to resolder ti points and it works good as new!

@AutoAutopsy

5 жыл бұрын

Nice!

Great video!! I just replaced the fuel pump and have the peeling button issue :-( Any words of wisdom regarding the replacing of the oil level sensor on a 2006 9-3 Aero? I've recently developed an oil leak but have no malfunctions of any kind...just the leak. I read somewhere to try some anaerobic sealant, otherwise replacing the sensor requires pulling the engine???

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Not sure....I've got a limited knowledge on the V6's

@pattibaiocchetti8593

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the reply!!

I just bought a 2006 Saab 9-3 SportCombi Vector. Luckily it has non of the here listed problems. 127k Miles and still running like fresh out of the factory. ;)

@AutoAutopsy

2 жыл бұрын

awesome!

Another one is the parking break locking up, and I’ve had the fuel gauge problem and then the paddle shifters sometimes decide not to work.

@AutoAutopsy

3 жыл бұрын

interesting; i haven't heard anything about the parking brake. I assume the cable just needs to be adjusted

@guysimoutthere3060

3 жыл бұрын

@@AutoAutopsy I think that must be the case as well

Love my SAAB cars also, but you can really tell the difference in quality (GM), between my 01 9-5 aero and my 04 9-3 linear..

@AutoAutopsy

3 жыл бұрын

that's also comparing a base model 9-3 to a top trim 9-5 which isn't exactly fair lol!

Very informative presentation. I have a 2008 SAAB Aero 9-3 and experiencing the following problem. 1) Cornering headlight malfunction 2) The back up alarm doesn't beep 3) Loosing too much coolant 4) Setting off car alarm for no apparent reasons. Could you please advise. Thanks

@AutoAutopsy

4 ай бұрын

Happy I could help. It really sounds like you need to get a tech2 scan done to see what codes come up. The headlight issue is likely a simple recalibration that’s needed. Coolant would be my biggest concern. You’d need to get under the car or poke around in the engine bay to see where it’s coming from!

I can add a couple: - halogen head light bulbs blowing - less than optimal battery = electronic issues of every kind - the indicator tick tock can't keep the rhythm. At every traffic light I'm "not quite my tempo"... LOL

@AutoAutopsy

2 жыл бұрын

The headlights can be programmed with a tech2 so the switch actually works. I used to go through bulbs twice a year until I finally bought a tech2 to program that switch

well done

@AutoAutopsy

4 жыл бұрын

thanks!

I generally have problems with the power locks. When unlocking my SAABs, I would have to resync my lock with the rest of car. The keys are also a problem as they are soft. They will damage very easily. The buttons are the most annoying one.

@AutoAutopsy

6 жыл бұрын

Very interesting, thanks for sharing!