2005 Saab 9-3
The 2005 Saab 9-3 is a compact executive car known for its distinctive styling and turbocharged engines. Engine options include a 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 producing 210 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque, as well as a naturally aspirated 2.0L Inline-4 producing 150 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, and a 5-speed automatic. Owners often praise the 9-3 for its sporty handling, comfortable ride, and unique features, but some common complaints include electrical issues, turbocharger problems (on turbocharged models), and higher-than-average repair costs.
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (B207R)
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light. Can be caused by oil starvation or worn components.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Direct Ignition (DI) Cassette Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light. Can be caused by age and heat.
- Solution: Replacement of the DI cassette.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, difficulty starting, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
- Recalls: None Found
2.0L Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
- No Issues Found
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic
- Slipping or Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Delayed engagement, slipping between gears, hard shifts, transmission warning light. Can be caused by worn valve body or internal damage.
- Solution: Valve body replacement, transmission rebuild, or transmission replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Suspension Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front end, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of worn bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Spring Sag
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal.
- Solution: Replacement of rear springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- SID (Saab Information Display) Pixel Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Pixels on the SID screen disappear, making it difficult to read information.
- Solution: Replacement of the SID unit or repair of the existing unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Key Fob Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Key fob stops working, difficulty locking/unlocking doors remotely.
- Solution: Replace Key Fob, check for proper programming.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly or not at all, clicking noise from the door.
- Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$400+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Center Console Cup Holder Breakage
- Description/Symptoms: Plastic cup holder mechanism breaks easily.
- Solution: Replacement of the cup holder assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
- Recalls: None Found
- Glove Box Latch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Glove box latch breaks, causing the glove box to not stay closed.
- Solution: Replacement of the glove box latch or entire glove box assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $30 - $100+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2005 Saab 9-3, while a unique and enjoyable car to drive, does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most prevalent issues include turbocharger and ignition system problems on the turbocharged engine, transmission issues in the automatic variant, electrical glitches with the SID and key fobs, and suspension wear. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as turbocharger or transmission replacement, can be costly.