2007 Saab 09-May
2007 Saab 09-May
Overview
The 2007 Saab 9-3, a stylish and sporty compact executive car, offered a blend of Scandinavian design and performance. While generally considered a solid vehicle, like any car of its age, it has certain areas that have seen more attention from owners regarding reliability. This analysis focuses on documented common issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for the 2007 model year across its various configurations. Understanding these potential pitfalls can help prospective buyers and current owners make informed decisions regarding maintenance and repairs.
Engine
1.9L JTDm Diesel
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
- Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, rough idling, increased fuel consumption.
- Solution: Forced regeneration, DPF cleaning, or replacement.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
EGR Valve Issues
- Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, black smoke from exhaust, check engine light.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
- Cost: $300 - $600
2.0L Turbo (B207)
Turbocharger Issues
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises, blue smoke from exhaust, oil leaks.
- Solution: Turbocharger inspection, repair, or replacement.
- Cost: $1000 - $2500
PCV System Clogging
- Symptoms: Oil leaks, engine sludge, rough idle, potential gasket failure.
- Solution: Replacement of the PCV valve and associated hoses.
- Cost: $200 - $400
2.8L V6 Turbo (B284)
Timing Chain Tensioner Issues
- Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup.
- Solution: Replacement of timing chain tensioners and guides.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic (5-Speed AF33)
Solenoid Issues
- Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission warning light.
- Solution: Replacement of transmission solenoids.
- Cost: $400 - $800
6-Speed Manual
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Worn Control Arm Bushings
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replacement of control arm bushings or entire control arms.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Electrical
General Electrical System
BCM (Body Control Module) Issues
- Symptoms: Intermittent electrical faults, warning lights, issues with power windows, locks, or lights.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
- Cost: $500 - $1200
Ignition Coil Failures
- Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, check engine light, reduced engine performance.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty ignition coils.
- Cost: $100 - $200 per coil
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
Interior Trim and Electronics
HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure
- Symptoms: Fan only works on highest setting, or not at all.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
- Cost: $100 - $250
Pixelated SID (Saab Information Display)
- Symptoms: Faded or missing segments on the dashboard display.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the SID unit.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Summary Verdict
The 2007 Saab 9-3, while offering a unique driving experience, presents a mixed reliability profile. Diesel variants are more prone to issues with the DPF and EGR systems, requiring attention. Petrol engines, particularly the turbocharged variants, can experience turbocharger problems and PCV system clogging. Automatic transmissions may develop solenoid issues, while manual gearboxes are generally robust. Electrical gremlins, especially related to the BCM and ignition coils, are not uncommon. Suspension components like control arm bushings can wear out, and interior electronics, such as the HVAC resistor and SID display, are known to fail. Despite these potential issues, many 9-3s remain reliable with proper maintenance and timely repairs.