2006 Saab 9-3 Saab 9-3 2006

We are 103,000+ car owners sharing real-world car information.

Join Us

2006 Saab 9-3 repairs by problem area

Engine (25%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (1%)

Brakes and Traction Control (4%)

Suspension and Steering (16%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (29%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (12%)

Other (12%)

Chart based on 387 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2006 Saab 9-3.

2006 Saab 9-3 repair cost distribution

$2500+ (1%)

$1000 - $2499 (5%)

$500 - $999 (9%)

$100 - $499 (30%)

< $100 (55%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 250 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2006 Saab 9-3

Engine not specified

Saab 9-3 in Texas, United States
Sep 2009 - Oct 2010
Jan 2010

38000 mi
Driver's lumbar support failed. 
Saab 9-3 in Virginia, United States
Jan 2014 - Apr 2014
Apr 2014

60000 mi

US $200
Radio and turn signals no sound - amp1 failure suspected. Battery drained over and over until it no longer held a charge. Radio and system sounds later started working. Battery replaced after less than 2 yrs. 
Saab 9-3 in Wisconsin, United States
Nov 2010 - Jun 2011
Dec 2010

46000 mi

US $60
New starter, new flywheel. Completely new transmission. I paid for the lube/oil change. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Nov 2008 - Aug 2018
Feb 2011

38000 mi
Front left spring broke 
Saab 9-3 in Florida, United States
May 2014 - Mar 2015
Jul 2014

79500 mi

US $400
Vacuum leak 
Saab 9-3 in Texas, United States
Jan 2007 - Jun 2011
Apr 2007

2000 mi
When I tried to put the passenger window up, it would sometimes automatically go back down. Bad sensor. 
Oct 2007

8000 mi
My coolant container had cracked, leaking coolant out. I noticed it because the "Low Coolant" light came on. They replaced the container and all is well. 
Jan 2008

11000 mi
There was a leak in the heater core. The dealership ordered in a new one and replaced it. 
May 2008

15000 mi
Part of the trim around the door was sagging. (And had been since delivery.) They fixed it. The engine revs a little too high on cold start. It returns to a regular rev when in gear. They replaced... something... but it didn't fix the problem. I'll take it in again at some point again. The front passenger window does not always return to its upright position when I try to close it -- it goes up, then down again. They replaced something and fixed it. 
Jul 2008

16000 mi
The driver window wouldn't go all the way up. The door's electronics need to be rebooted. 
Jul 2009

30000 mi
The car makes a noise when the wheel is turned sharply while moving. The shop thinks it's one of two things -- they tried the first, and now I need to bring it back so they can try the second. 
Aug 2009

31000 mi
The car makes a noise when the wheel is turned sharply while moving. Still. 
Oct 2009

34000 mi
I ran out of gas one day, even though the gauge showed that I still had 1-2 gallons. When I brought it in to the shop, they said that running it that low on fuel caused the fuel pump to go. They replaced it, and my gauge is now registering correctly. 
Saab 9-3 in Nebraska, United States
Jan 2014 - Apr 2014
Mar 2014

87000 mi

US $40
Faulty oil pressure sensor was causing the car to report low oil pressure upon start up and when heavy acceleration was called for. Intercooler pipe clamps loosened which caused the car to go into limp home mode and display trac control, elec slip pgm and gearbox malfunction errors. Wipers stopped halfway up the windshield and fluid would not squirt. Replaced windshield motor due to faulty position sensor with a used motor and replaced driver nozzle due to crack in existing nozzle. Replaced existing sway bar links with a beefier part due to subpar OEM life. 
Saab 9-3 in Florida, United States
Nov 2006 - May 2023
Jul 2009

36000 mi
Battery and cables replaced. 
Dec 2009

41000 mi
Antenna cracking. 
Jan 2010

85500 mi
Windshield fluid nozzle. 
Jun 2010

49000 mi

US $600
SID unit (trip computer) after resetting trip info would randomly go back to previous distance/MPG numbers after turning off engine (then back on). After multiple attempts including software updates, SID was replaced and finally fixed. (both) rear door's upper interior window sill would sag down showing metal frame. This is due to the weak 2-way tape holding it up against the frame. Florida heat may have something to do with it but should be addressed. Dealer replaced. SAAB emblem peels off. This is the third time (between front and back). Dealer replaced. I am not sure Saab has yet addressed. interior front door handle (covers) show slight wear discoloration. Dealer replaced under warranty. I hadn't even noticed. rattle coming from dashboard (around front speaker). Speaker harness was loose. Mechanic attached, added insulation and rattle disappeared. Fixed 
Aug 2011

63000 mi

US $310
AC stopped working--- no parts replaced, just computer reset. Unfortunately troubleshooting took a long time hence the expensive repair. 
Jan 2012

US $220
Ingniter on one of the spark plugs required maintenance 
May 2013

84000 mi

US $234
lumbar support broke evap purge valve $386 
Jan 2018

125000 mi

US $35
Ballast control unit for right low beam headlight was bad (from water damage). Troubleshooting-- first assumed it was the bulb but using other's side bulb it still didn't work, then assumed it was the ignitor but used the one from the driver's side and confirmed that even with good ignitor it still didn't work, next step was to replace the ballast control unit (again, using the working one from the driver's side) and it DID work. Solution was to replace the bad ballast control unit. I ordered a USED unit (as it was significantly cheaper and came with a warranty). The biggest issue was having to remove the front bumper to get to the ballast control unit. After watching a short youtube video, it was nowhere as difficult as it initially appeared. I read on the forums that others were charged $900 at the dealer to address the same issue (it seems they replaced all three; bulb, ignitor, and ballast). My $35 solution and two hours worth of research, troubleshooting, and performing the repair was certainly worth it 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States
May 2008 - Jan 2009
Jul 2008

70000 mi

US $200
Creak in suspension, lubed suspension, will monitor. 
Saab 9-3 in California, United States
May 2008 - Mar 2012
Jun 2008

19000 mi
Malfunctioning passenger airbag sensor. 
Jul 2008

20000 mi
Hood emblem peeled off. 
Feb 2009

27000 mi
Lumbar support in driver's seat broke. 
May 2010

40000 mi
Door hinge element came loose in driver and passenger front doors. 
Jan 2011

41400 mi
Peeling soft touch finish on glovebox decor. 
Sep 2011

54000 mi
Coolant expansion tank cap replaced. 
Saab 9-3 in Washington, United States
Jan 2017 - Jun 2018
Jul 2017

63000 mi

US $201
replaced worn sway bar end links 
Apr 2018

71000 mi

US $450
Driver window regulator failed 
Saab 9-3 in New Mexico, United States
Nov 2006 - Jun 2008
Mar 2007

4000 mi
Rattle in the sunroof. Trimpiece had come loose. Reattached, issue fixed. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Saab 9-3 in Ontario, Canada
Jan 2011 - Jun 2012
Jun 2012

65100 mi

C $900
tie-rod end 
Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States
Oct 2013 - May 2018
Nov 2015

124900 mi

US $130
Replaced shock absorbers 
Sep 2016

135000 mi

US $200
Fuel sender 
Dec 2016

140000 mi

US $200
Brake line failed and replaced Replaced struts 
Dec 2017

150000 mi

US $37
Fuel tank level sender 
Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Jan 2011 - Feb 2012
Feb 2011

33000 mi

US $200
Knocking noise from front passenger side. Dealer found broken coil spring. Replaced under warranty and recall campaign for this MY 
Saab 9-3 in California, United States
Jun 2009 - Jan 2016
Mar 2012

40000 mi

US $150
Windshield wiper motor regulator and adjustment of lights. 
Saab 9-3 in Washington, United States
Nov 2006 - May 2015
Jul 2007

21000 mi
Check engine light came on, vehicle continued to operate normally. Dealer diagnosed problem as faulty seal on gas cap. Replaced gas cap during the same appointment and successfully resolved issue. 
Feb 2008

31000 mi
Rattle from vehicle headliner when going over rough roads. Vehicle has required low beam headlight replacement three times in 30,000 miles of ownership - twice on left side, once on right. Dealer checked electrical system, found no problems, replaced both headlight bulbs. Time will tell whether or not ... 
May 2009

47000 mi
Slow coolant leak that required refill ~every month. Problem diagnosed as leaking banjo fitting, part ordered. Broken console cupholder. Parts ordered under warranty. 
Jun 2009

47000 mi
Parts received, broken console cupholder replaced. 
Jun 2011

72000 mi

US $640
Fuel gauge would go to zero when tank filled. After 100 miles of driving, gauge would come on scale and work normally until next fillup. Happened consistently. Mechanic replaced fuel pump assembly which resolved problem. 
Apr 2013

93800 mi

US $504
Blower motor for circulating air inside the vehicle developed chirping noise, needed to be replaced due to incipient failure. 
Feb 2015

118000 mi

US $1170
Both headlights failed approximately 2 weeks apart. Headlights replaced. Check engine light came on and diagnosed as failed ignition coil. All four ignition coils and spark plugs replaced. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States
Nov 2006 - Mar 2009
Apr 2007

16000 mi
Front strut bushings were bad, made light clunking noise. Not a safety issue, just an annoyance, not sure if/when they would have failed. 
May 2007

17000 mi
Front strut bushings replaced. 
Jun 2008

29000 mi
The driver's side seat manual lumbar adjustment stopped working. The knob spun freely without adjusting lumbar which was stuck in the pushed in position. Driver's power window pinch protection was causing the window to go back down at the top when the express-up feature was used. 
Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States
May 2010 - Nov 2011
Jul 2010

53200 mi
Check engine light on but no error message from computer. Told it was a hot weather related problem and light was reset.  
Nov 2011

65000 mi
Bad coil pack caused engine to misfire. Coil pack replaced. Rear hatch would not latch. Repair estimated at $270. Traded without repair. 
Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States
Nov 2011 - Jun 2016
Dec 2011

50000 mi
Brake service - new pads and rotors 
Dec 2012

60000 mi

US $100
Right-front spring broke. This is a known problem and was covered under warranty by GM. I paid for a front end alignment. 
Feb 2014

66900 mi

US $330
Replaced ball joints at end of sway bar 
Saab 9-3 in Colorado, United States
Aug 2015 - Mar 2017
Oct 2015

142700 mi

US $35
Remove Power steering pump assembly, replace O-ring and seal. 
May 2016

152900 mi

US $1100
Rear brake job. Right rear brake caliper found to be defective, causing excessive and uneven wear and was replaced. 
Dec 2016

165000 mi

US $200
Front passenger side wheel well liner was loose and rubbing tire when turning. 
Saab 9-3 in Alabama, United States
Oct 2014 - Jun 2018
Nov 2014

175000 mi

US $200
Worn sway bar end link bushings caused clunk over bumps, especially when one front wheel move up and down independently of the other. A/c fan motor squeezing like a dining cricket. Nursed it for a month before getting it fixed. 
Dec 2015

196000 mi

US $80
OIl leak from valve cover. 
Dec 2016

212000 mi

US $400
Thermostat stuck open. Stalling under heavy acceleration caused by leaking valve cover gasket soaking plugs/wires with oil. 
Oct 2017

225000 mi

US $900
Ignition coils replaced 
Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States
Nov 2006 - Jun 2018
Apr 2011

69000 mi
Right-front spring broke near bottom coil. Saab has extended the warranty on the springs for 10 years/120,000 miles as this is a known issue in the "snow-belt" states where salt is used on the roads. Dealer replaced both front springs. 
May 2011

71000 mi

US $105
Right-rear caliper was sticking causing excessive drag. Replaced caliper with a remanufactured one. 
Jul 2011

74000 mi

US $183
Front tilt on drivers power seat stopped working. Replaced tilt motor. 
Sep 2013

108000 mi

US $118
Water pump was leaking. Replaced water pump. Drained and refilled coolant. 
Jul 2014

121700 mi

US $700
Replaced front struts & sway bar links Replaced rear shocks and fractured upper-shock mounts (cast aluminum) 
Mar 2016

151000 mi

US $66
Toe control adjusting bolt was seized inside of toe control arm on left-rear of vehicle. Replaced eccentric bolt, nut, and toe control arm. 
Jul 2016

156500 mi

US $191
The cabin ventilation fan was squeaking on extremely hot days. Fuel pump failed. Fuel pump replaced. 
Nov 2017

179000 mi

US $35
Inside door release of drivers door was in operable. Replaced broken door release cable. 
Saab 9-3 in Indiana, United States
Nov 2006 - Sep 2011
Aug 2008

35000 mi
Rattle, RPM dependent. Rattle, RPM dependent. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 150hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Saab 9-3 in Nova Scotia, Canada
Jul 2013 - Apr 2015
Jun 2014

75020 mi

C $500
Replaced one front and one rear coil spring that had broken 
Jul 2014

75640 mi

C $600
Replaced both front door electric locks 
Nov 2014

82800 mi

C $1200
Replaced passenger front electric window actuator Replaced front brake caliper, passenger side 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 150hp 1.9L I4 Diesel 6-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in Northern Ireland
Jan 2007 - Dec 2008
Oct 2008

20000 mi
Alternator failed, successfully replaced at dealer. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Saab 9-3 in Virginia, United States
Jan 2009 - Jun 2010
Feb 2009

28000 mi
SAAB trunk emblem was pealed. Dealer repaired under warranty. Dealer did a great job! 
Saab 9-3 in Maryland, United States
Jul 2009 - Jun 2018
Mar 2010

71000 mi
The transmission linkage for the wiper system broke. Part ordered from Saab and installed by owner for $112. 
Feb 2012

100000 mi
Front springs broke and repaired under GM warranty campaign. Damaged tire and towing not covered. 
Oct 2013

128300 mi

US $55
I replaced leaking coolant hoses from tank that run over top the turbo shield Part# 12842478 & 12842477 and 4 hose clamps. Check engine light for faulty boost control valve. Replaced boost control valve part # 12787706. I bought the kit from the GM dealer at less than Saab sells the valve itself so I got the three vacuum lines with the valve. 
Jan 2017

134200 mi

US $850
Replaced inner and outer tie-rod ends,front sway bar links and rear upper control arm due to expected wear. 
May 2017

155000 mi

US $100
Replaced the hard vacuum line, vacuum noise on start up is quiet. Resolved the check engine code as well. 
Feb 2018

164074 mi

US $1000
Codes P0300, P0202 and P0302 stored/reset. Replaced spark plugs, boost control valve cylinder 2 fuel injector and intake manifold gasket.  Replaced ECU with used unit.  Installed new cabin fan motor, cabin filter seal and cabin filter.  Replaced melted passenger side tail/brake circuit board and 4 pin terminal connector with good used unit. Replaced corroded right front marker socket and bulb. 
Jun 2018

169000 mi

US $600
Replaced fuel computer that I had to source used for $200 because the OEM replacement was not available and is year specific at $925. Replaced all 6 coils. The Indie mechanic let me buy the Bosch coils at a 50% savings to me. 
Saab 9-3 in Indiana, United States
Oct 2014 - Jan 2019
Dec 2016

120000 mi

US $1000
Broken front springs required replacement 
Saab 9-3 in Missouri, United States
Jun 2007 - Apr 2009
Oct 2007

19000 mi
Puddle of pink fluid on garage floor several days after scheduled maint. No fluids low, shop found no leaks. 
Sep 2008

35000 mi
Once again, small coolant leak noticed. Given some B.S. explanation that it was normal. Topped off coolant. 
Nov 2008

40000 mi
Coolant still leaking. Decided to replace the coolant tank and cap. 
Dec 2008

42000 mi
Cooling fan stuck on high, even when car was shut off. Fan would run until low voltage safety shut it off, killing the battery. Replaced battery and made software change for fan. This is the third battery in two years. 
Feb 2009

44000 mi
Intermittent rough idle, to the point that it has died a few times. Not consistent, difficult to predict, and not repaired. Dealer indicates several other aeros with similar symptoms. GM Tech Assistance engaged with no result. 
Mar 2009

45000 mi
Rough idle continues. Dealer still cannot duplicate. Opened TAC case with GM. 
Apr 2009

45000 mi
New coolant reservoir. Also new spark plugs. 
Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Dec 2008 - Jun 2012
Jun 2010

23000 mi
factory security system was not working and was replaced. a high pitched intermittent noise possible linked to the brakes or throttle is heard but not located and fixed; told to come back and leave the car if it gets worse.  
Feb 2011

26000 mi

US $100
dealer test drove the car ~10 miles could not replicate 
Saab 9-3 in Colorado, United States
Oct 2010 - Aug 2017
Jan 2010

26000 mi
Dealer replaced front struts, front emblem, glove box button was pealing, replaced coolant tank with larger one (recall)  
Mar 2011

58000 mi

US $5
I have read other complaints and the heat from the engine could have caused the brake fluid cap to crack. Replaced cap for around $5. 
Jan 2014

102000 mi

US $250
Replaced purge valve. 
Saab 9-3 in Texas, United States
Jan 2009 - Aug 2011
Mar 2009

32000 mi
Stability control error. Rattle in dash. 
Jun 2009

34000 mi
Rear taillight bulb assembly came loose. Taillight bulb rested against fiberoptic wire going to the audio/nav system and melted the insulation. This rendered the audio/nav system inoperable. Fiber optic cable assembly was replaced. 
Saab 9-3 in Kuwait
May 2010 - Aug 2012
Jun 2010

57040 mi
Check engine light came on, dealer said there is a problem in fuel pump, fuel pressure is low. 
Sep 2010

58280 mi
coolant tank 
Mar 2011

62000 mi

$600
radiator cap leaks from time to time 
Jul 2011

65720 mi

$700
steering column lock (electronic lock) is indicating that steering is locked when its not, unable to start the engine, Key fob damaged by dealer, unable to lock or unlock the car, only to start the car. dealer supplied and programmed news key fob. 
Jul 2012

75020 mi
A/C not cooling, one vent gives cold air, all the rest give hot air Smell of coolant appear after shutting the engine, 
Aug 2012

75020 mi
engine take long time to start after refulling, fuel pump pressure is weak. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Aug 2016 - Jun 2018
Sep 2016

98000 mi

US $25
ACC cabin blower motor was noisy and sometimes did not work unless set to full blast. Sounded like motor was seizing, also triggered a code in tech2 diagnostics. Followed repair advice per http://www.saabcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=165760 - removed and maintained motor, drilled hole in base to prevent future corrosion. Replaced headights. Had to remove parts of front bumper shroud to access bulbs. 
Sep 2017

101000 mi

US $50
Engine was displaying multiple codes P2300, P2303, P2306, P2309, P2312, and P2315, indicating "ignition coil short to ground" for each cylinders 1 - 6. Attempted the following repairs: - Replace spark plugs and ignition coils - Replace main relay - Cleaned and soldered all splices in wiring harness on '+' side to ignition coils. - Cleaned and soldered ground and +12V splices throughout the wiring harness from the battery/fusebox to ignition coils - Cleaned ground connections G7F and G7R, and verified low resistance to battery terminal from each - Used a micro-ohmeter to test resistance from ground to pins 3 and 4 of each coil connector. Found 3 that were suspect (20+ m? vs 10m? for other pins) and replaced the coil connectors. None of these things corrected any of the codes, although I'm sure they didn't hurt. Ended up getting a stage 0 tune from Vermont Tuning, which I HIGHLY recommend. Before applying the tune we logged data and there was no data to suggest that the codes were 'real'. The codes came back after the tune was applied (and data logged and observed again), so a custom tune was made to block them out since all voltages and data look good. 
Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Nov 2006 - May 2016
Sep 2008

26000 mi
SEAL ON LEFTHEADLIGHT DEFECTIVE, LEADING TO FOGGING INSIDE HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY. Trim/bezel surround on dash replaced. Had come loose on drivers side. 
Dec 2008

26600 mi
Right front spring broke due to corrosion. Both front springs were replaced. Front right spring broke, replaced both front springs and bearings under warranty. From discussion board seems to be common problem 
Jan 2009

30000 mi
Light clunking noise from left from suspension was determined to be left front strut and was replaced. 
Sep 2009

36000 mi
replace worn right front inner tie rod 
Nov 2010

44000 mi
replaced cracked coolant reservoir bottle 
Mar 2013

65000 mi
front right spring cracked 
Dec 2014

83000 mi

US $50
Sway bar link 
Jun 2015

87000 mi

US $300
Left rear caliper was seized requiring replacement 
Saab 9-3 in Texas, United States
Oct 2007 - Dec 2013
Feb 2008

23000 mi
Brake light blown. 
Dec 2013

90000 mi

US $550
80k maintenance, tire rotation, windshield washer nozzle replacement 
Saab 9-3 in California, United States
Mar 2007 - May 2014
Jul 2007

11000 mi
Surge cap replaced reprogramed pinch control on front diver side window replace gearshifter knob - comes off 
Sep 2007

12000 mi
Installed bushing on gear shifter assembly Surge tank leaking - tank replaced 
Feb 2008

20000 mi
Replaced expansion tank - second time. 
Jun 2008

25000 mi
Coolant tank replaced (third time). 
Sep 2008

25000 mi
Coolant tank replaced (fourth time). 
Dec 2009

53000 mi
Window regulator rollers replaced - right front window 
Jul 2010

67000 mi

US $720
Replaced a/c fan speed controller 
Sep 2010

70000 mi
ECM ordered. ECM installed, didn't fix problem. Ignition coils, vacuum line and spark plugs replaced - no cost under certified warranty. 
Jan 2011

73000 mi
Replaced fuel pressure sensor One touch did not work. Reprogrammed window module 
Mar 2011

75000 mi
Car would not start; positive switch replaced. Battery also replaced cost pro-rated 
Sep 2011

82000 mi
Clutch return spring broke -replaced 
Feb 2012

89800 mi
Replace fuel pump 
Apr 2012

90700 mi
rubber cover of key has failed 
May 2012

91700 mi
Transmission stick shift boot coming apart 
Jun 2012

94000 mi
a/c needs to be replaced 
Jul 2012

94500 mi
Battery's positive circuit breaker is failing. Reset, but dealer ordered a replacement part. Easy to reset if one knew that such a part existed. Rear Window Regulator Replaced Replaced a/c compressor Replaced shifter knob Coolant leak - replaced coolant tank 
Dec 2012

99000 mi

US $304
replaced one Xenon head lamp bulb 
Jan 2013

100000 mi

US $70
CEL came on - code ME9 P0089-00. Checked fuel pressure regulator - no problem Adjust parking brake 
Feb 2013

100800 mi

US $332
replace canister purge valve 
May 2013

103000 mi

US $420
Replaced coolant tank Positive cable shut off switch. There is a question about warranty liability. 
Jan 2014

101800 mi

US $300
Replaced xenon head lamp bulb 
Saab 9-3 in Connecticut, United States
Apr 2011 - Jan 2015
Aug 2013

140900 mi

US $700
Had to replace Front Spring due to it failing and breaking. Replaced both front Springs and Struts. 
Jan 2015

US $20
Coolant Cap broke. Had to order a new one and replace. 
Saab 9-3 in North Carolina, United States
Apr 2007 - Oct 2010
Aug 2007

9000 mi
coolant expansion bottle was leaking when coolant expanded, dealer replaced expansion bottle 
Oct 2007

10000 mi
coolant expansion bottle leaked when engine heats up replaced by dealer 
Jun 2008

19000 mi
coolant expansion bottle was leaking when coolant expanded, dealer replaced expansion bottle. Successful repair. 
Jun 2009

31000 mi
radiator coolant expansion bottle cracked and leaking, repeat problem 
Sep 2010

47000 mi

US $14000
compressor for AC unit failed and needed to be replaced 
Saab 9-3 in Florida, United States
Nov 2006 - Dec 2017
Jan 2007

2000 mi
Rattle in the passenger door ; also was in for a Tech II personalization Door seal not flat Light sensing "ball" on the middle of the top of the dash had glue all over it 
Apr 2007

7000 mi
Replaced airvent due to rattle. Also tried to "tighten" up B pillar rattle. Rattles less noticable but still very present. Window seal was defective and bending away from the window. The seal was replaced a second time. 
Sep 2007

14000 mi
Rattles in dash and door buzzing on rough roads. Manual Shift knob fell off. Fading door panels. Peeling rubber from glovebox release button. 
May 2009

29000 mi
Rear-Driver's side window made clunking noise when moving. The problem was diagnosed as an issue with the regulator. Part had to be ordered. Ordered regulator again. New window regulator installed. Rear window interior felt/seal bent/malformed during regulator repair. Part ordered. 
Jun 2009

30000 mi
Rear window interior felt/seal bent/malformed during regulator repair was replaced. 
Apr 2010

40000 mi
Noticed electrical smoke smell and speakers popping after heavy rain and car wash. Problem was found that after window regulator had been replaced door had not been properly sealed. Water intrusion damaged stereo amplifier under driver seat (wet). 
Dec 2010

48000 mi
Passenger window clicking while going up. Window regulator found faulty and replaced. 
Feb 2012

60000 mi

US $20
Hood mounted washer sprayers stopped working. They had come apart under the hood. 
Jan 2013

68000 mi

US $70
Hard start condition after fuel fill threw CEL. Replaced EVAP fuel purge valve. 
May 2014

79000 mi

US $365
Fuel gauge was "jumping" and would read empty after fill-up. Fuel sender was replace (fuel pump was not replaced). 
Dec 2017

92000 mi

US $50
Rear driver side lock actuator failed (would only lock/unlock) sometimes. Replaced with pulled part 
Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States
Feb 2016 - Jan 2022
Oct 2016

132800 mi
Radiator cooling fans not operating properly, very difficult to work on. 
Jun 2017

145000 mi

US $100
replaced broken shock absorbers and mounts 
Aug 2017

147000 mi

US $800
Fuel pump non operational, fuel pressure sensor non operational system replaced. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Mar 2013 - Apr 2015
Feb 2015

88000 mi
struts and shocks needed replacement after 20k miles since previous repair. Also was told this causes misalignment, needed new tires as a result 
Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States
Sep 2012 - Sep 2014
Mar 2013

68000 mi

US $254
Power mirrors performing erractically. Tried changing mirror switch, no result. Had to change the drivers door window control module. Published service bulitien on this issue. 
Jan 2014

77000 mi

US $194
SID showing braked system failure and speedometer stopped functioning. Dealer found a service bulletin requiring re-flash of ECM. Successfully corrected problem. SID showing braked system failure and speedometer stopped functioning. Dealer found a service bulletin requiring re-flash of ECM. Successfully corrected problem. 
Mar 2014

79000 mi

US $25
Sway bar links were worn out and rattling over bumps. Replaced them. 
Apr 2014

79500 mi

US $300
Power steering pump seal failed, allowed engine oil to be pumped into steering system (this is a common issue) 
Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
May 2012 - Jun 2018
Jun 2018

161000 mi

US $100
Ecu replacement 
Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States
Jan 2013 - Jan 2014
Mar 2013

91000 mi

US $900
Needed Tie-rods Replaced steering pump 
Saab 9-3 in California, United States
Nov 2006 - Mar 2010
Mar 2007

9000 mi
rear seat belts lock up spuriously. Replacements ordered, installed a month later rear seat belts lock up spuriously. Replacements ordered, installed a month later 
Saab 9-3 in Kansas, United States
Apr 2016 - May 2017
Dec 2016

207000 mi
New spark plugs 
May 2017

207000 mi

US $15
Replaced engine gasket on short block 
Saab 9-3 in Maryland, United States
Aug 2006 - Apr 2008
Jul 2006

13000 mi
Window sensor replaced 
Saab 9-3 in Maryland, United States
Feb 2016 - Oct 2017
Jun 2016

122222 mi

US $1700
ECU wiring bad Headlight reflector delaminated - had to replace both front headlight assembly. Had to replace defective seat position sensor 
Saab 9-3 in California, United States
Mar 2007 - Dec 2021
Apr 2007

10000 mi
defective rear seat belts. new belts had to be ordered. took 4 hours to replace seat belts. Initial dealer response was they could not find the problem. That caused another trip. 
Sep 2010

66000 mi

US $158
Driver's window had to be reprogrammed to stop returning to half way after being given a rollup command 
Aug 2011

72200 mi

US $20
passenger window would not go all the way up. Random stops. Dealer reprogrammed safety stopping points 
Jun 2013

83000 mi

US $90
Drivers side windshield squirter clogged, replaced. 
Apr 2014

87000 mi

US $140
Front right window erratic roll-up. Had to be reprogrammed for anti-pinch setting. This happened to the left front 2 years ago. 
Mar 2016

95000 mi

US $299
Windshield wiper linkage broken. Linkage replaced with new assembly. 
Apr 2017

98000 mi
GM recall of takata airbag on driver's side 
Sep 2017

100000 mi

US $120
Fuel level system errors diagnosed. Tank sensor bad. Replacement will cost abt $440 
Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States
Nov 2006 - Apr 2018
Nov 2009

46000 mi
Minor repair. Loose fly bar in suspension caused knocks on bumps. Tightened for no charge - repair took 45 minutes. 
Nov 2011

81000 mi

US $10
Car was losing coolant. The leak was determined to be a faulty radiator cap. The cap had to be ordered and delivered the next day, but the repair took $10. ID'ing the problem took less than an hour with a pressurization check. 
Feb 2012

85000 mi

US $98
Driver's side headlight bulb burned out. Total cost for replacement was $98, and took 5 minutes to replace. 
Jul 2012

90200 mi

US $212
One of the two horns failed in the car, so when hitting the car horn sounded like a clown car. Fixed in 1.25 hours. 
Sep 2013

111000 mi

US $200
Driver's left bolster ripped. Needed to be replaced. Was replaced and looks like new. 
Feb 2014

115800 mi

US $55
Windshield washer fluid was leaking out through one of the hood jets. Was replaced, resolved issue. 
Apr 2014

117500 mi

US $1500
Struts in front replaced. One spring in the front broken and replaced. Upper control arms in back replaced. All of my cars need this repair around 120,000 miles as the road in CT beat up suspensions on all brands. 
May 2014

119000 mi

US $300
Vacuum pump had a small oil leak the last 10,000 miles. Replaced it for $300 and resolved the problem. Car ran fine with the repair needed, risk of bad smell of oil burning was only concern. 
Nov 2014

123400 mi

US $80
Oil consumption was slightly elevated. Shop took care of it by blowing carbon off of the cylinders and valves. Consumption was resolved. 
Jun 2015

130000 mi

US $300
Blower motor needed replacement. Just age of car and use. Greased it to put off replacement for a few months. 
Oct 2015

135000 mi

US $396
The blower motor for the heat/ac I had applied grease to stop squealing two months ago. It returned in October, so had the motor replaced before it failed and left me without heat or ac. The blower motor for the heat/ac I had applied grease to stop squealing two months ago. It returned in October, so had the motor replaced before it failed and left me without heat or ac. 
Mar 2016

141000 mi

US $200
Power steering was seeping oil. Time to replace at 140,000. 
Jan 2017

129700 mi

US $150
Oil leak around oil level monitor. Oil sensor rubber seal replaced. Check engine light came on. Shop reset it. My guess was correct about an engine misfire. Solved it with $28 fuel spark plug cleaner and a full tank of premium fuel. 
Aug 2017

160000 mi

US $60
Washer jets leaking on hood - removed and replaced with a new set of washer jets. 
Jan 2018

166000 mi

US $40
Multiple light bulbs burnt out, replaced them all. One headlight, right front turn signal left brake light, one of two license plate lights. 20 minutes for all four. 
Mar 2018

168000 mi

US $166
AC Blower Control unit replaced Battery was failing and needed replacement 
Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Jun 2011 - Jun 2022
Sep 2011

49000 mi
Second time a front coil spring has broken. This is a crappy Saab part. 
Jun 2015

92000 mi

US $90
Windshield wiper motor failure 
Sep 2015

96000 mi

US $40
Wiper transmission. 
Oct 2016

107800 mi

US $160
Xenon headlights replaced Windshield wiper transmission. Replaced Front spring broke both replaced with aftermarket parts 
Dec 2016

112000 mi

US $75
The left rear taillight cover fell off. The whole assembly was replaced with a used part. 
Mar 2018

125000 mi

US $125
I had to replace the passenger door lock. The actuator had failed. It was an easy job. 
Jul 2018

130000 mi

US $30
Replace two more failing door lock mechanisms. Parts getting hard to find new. Replaced trunk seal. 
Oct 2021

170000 mi

US $1200
ECU went bad. Saab mounted these on top of the exhaust manifold. Not a great place. Many people have dead cars and need an ECU 
Saab 9-3 in Colorado, United States
Nov 2011 - Jun 2018
May 2015

70100 mi

US $130
Crankshaft Position Sensor failed. Car limped to a nearby garage. 
Apr 2018

91000 mi

US $800
Fuel level sensor replacement. Worked properly half-tank and below; above a half-tank, it read empty. Preventative replacement of fuel pump as well. 
Saab 9-3 in British Columbia, Canada
Jul 2010 - Sep 2014
May 2011

32860 mi

C $200
Mass Airflow sensor cleaned 
Nov 2012

48020 mi

C $50
Window washer hose came off fitting 
Saab 9-3 in Illinois, United States
Sep 2009 - Jun 2011
Oct 2009

41000 mi
One headlamp bulb replaced but it's still under warranty, took about 15 min. 
Saab 9-3 in Ohio, United States
Nov 2008 - Aug 2010
Feb 2009

36000 mi
Developed popping noise when going over small road irregularities. Dealer replaced front struts and strut bearings - problem solved, car feels like new. Cost = 0. 
Apr 2010

58000 mi

US $1110
Replaced failed A/C compressor. 
Saab 9-3 in Victoria, Australia
May 2008 - Jun 2009
Jun 2008

18600 mi
Knocking front suspension and/or rattly steering rack. 
Aug 2008

18600 mi
Front suspensiuon knocking due to faulty suspension arms and bushes. Known problem fixed by repalcing parts to a later (2008 model year) design. 
Saab 9-3 in California, United States
May 2008 - Sep 2013
Apr 2010

68000 mi

US $36
one of the Lowbeam HID lamps needed replacing, so I replaced both with after market lamps for $36.00 Saab parts were very expensive 
Saab 9-3 in Puerto Rico
Jun 2007 - Sep 2009
Jul 2007

15000 mi
This car has a lot of noises coming from the window seals oh the driver side and in the sunroof. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in Ohio, United States
Apr 2010 - Dec 2013
Oct 2010

69000 mi

US $30
Windshield wiper motor needed replacing 
Aug 2012

93000 mi

US $50
Sway bar end links replaced 
Sep 2013

107000 mi

US $16
Replaced windshield washer pump 
Saab 9-3 in Maryland, United States
Nov 2006 - Oct 2008
Feb 2007

10000 mi
Knocking sound coming from front suspension when cold. 
Mar 2007

11000 mi
Rattling from front end due to defective front suspension bushings. 
Saab 9-3 in Virginia, United States
Nov 2006 - Oct 2016
Jun 2008

21000 mi
Remote keyfob transmitter replaced due to deterioration of rubber around the buttons. Turned soft and gummy. For what it's worth I've had this same issue with the rubber eraserhead pointers on laptops. 
Nov 2008

26000 mi

US $10
Replaced driver's side headlight. Took about 5 minutes to change.  
Dec 2008

27000 mi
I noticed coolant loss (but did not see where it was going--a very small leak), took it to the dealer and they added UV dye to the coolant. They told me to bring it back later to have them check to see if they can find where it is leaking. The headlight bulb I replaced myself in November blew again so I took it to the dealer. They replaced both headlight bulbs per standard proc. and updated BCM software to reduce voltage to bulbs for longer life. 
May 2009

33000 mi
Saab directed the dealer to replace the shortblock to resolve the coolant loss issue. Got a stability control failure message twice that went away an hour later each time. Dealership scanned for codes and determined that ABS hydraulic unit needed to be replaced due to a "pressure sensor rationality error". 
Jun 2009

33000 mi
Dealer replaced seat cover due to split/crack in side bolster. 
Jul 2009

34000 mi
Oil leak from engine. Shop sprayed leak detection powder on engine to isolate source on Friday, then told me to bring it in on Monday. 
Aug 2009

36000 mi
Dealer determined that turbocharger oil pipe is leaking. Replaced turbocharger oil delivery pipe which fixed the oil leak. 
Sep 2010

50000 mi
Dealer replaced worn-out keyfob and also replaced battery under factory warranty. 
Oct 2016

103000 mi
Replaced fuel cap to correct P0456 code 
Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Nov 2006 - Jul 2020
Jul 2007

12000 mi
Auto door lock feature malfunction, they go up and down several times before finally locking. Waiting for a future software update to resolve issue. Electronic steering wheel lock sometimes does not release steering wheel when key is inserted in ignition; dealer could not duplicate problem. Audio system "froze" - no response to any controls for volume, tuning, etc.; dealer ordered new amplifier. Dealer installed replacement amplifier. A loaner car was provided for this trip as well as the earlier trip (for diagnosis). 
Nov 2007

15000 mi
Rear seatback latches hard. 
Feb 2009

27000 mi
SAAB emblem on hood need replacement, the insert with the logo fell out. Drivers door window would not close fully (stayed open about 1/4"). 
Mar 2010

36000 mi
Bad strut bearing (drivers side, front). Dealer replaced both front strut bearings as a precaution. 
Jun 2010

39000 mi

US $76
One touch close on drivers window malfunctioned. When window raised, it would then go back down about 1/3rd. Dealer said it is a software problem with the "pinch protection" that is common with this model. No permanent fix is available. 
Apr 2011

44300 mi
A loud "sproing" noise was heard just after driving out of our garage, steering wheel then jumped to the left. Car was towed to dealership and was found to have a broken spring. Both front springs were replaced under Saab's hidden warranty. 
Oct 2011

47500 mi
For several months, there has been a problem with the auto up windows not closing properly. The dealer has not been able to solve the problem. On a hunch, I removed and re-installed the fuse - problem solved! (works for other problems to. much like re-booting a computer). "Infotainment System" (audio/trip computer) froze when I cleared the system after a fill-up. I solved the problem by re-booting the system (I pulled the fuse and re-installed it a few seconds later). Works for many simple problems on cars. 
Jun 2017

88854 mi

US $127
Replaced front sway bar links which solved the problem of creaking and groaning over bumps and on turns. After 11 years and almost 90,000 miles, this car has required very little in the way of repairs most of which have been related to quirky electronics. So far, all of the electronic issues (power widows, sunroof, infotainment system) have been resolved by simply "re-booting" the affected system (remove the fuse and re-install after 30 seconds). Mechanically, this car has been great! 
Apr 2018

95000 mi

US $208
While having my summer tires put back on, the mechanic noticed that the rear upper shock mount on the drivers side was partially corroded. We had both replaced as a precaution. 
May 2018

96000 mi
One of the sway bar links which had been replaced in June of 2017 failed and was replaced under warranty. 
Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States
Nov 2013 - Jan 2019
Dec 2013

129000 mi

US $20
Thermostat stuck partially open (was replaced 6 mo prior) and I replaced it in 30 min at my apt complex 
Nov 2014

146000 mi

US $75
Ignition coil failed, causing misfire. Repair was $75 for the coil, 5 min to replace 
May 2015

159600 mi

US $1100
Replaced struts, strut mounts, front LCAs (bushings & ball joints included), and rear suspension bushings. Struts had become very loose when rallycrossing, which probably affected other bushings & ball joints. Repair was done before an HPDE. 
Aug 2016

187000 mi

US $180
Radiator developed a leak, needed to be replaced 
Mar 2017

196000 mi

US $200
One of the soft hydraulic lines began to bubble, necessitating replacement. I opted to replace all four soft brake lines as a precaution. 
Mar 2018

213000 mi

US $95
Parking brake actuator in pass side rear caliper failed, rendering parking brake inoperative. Normal hydraulic brakes were fully functional 
Jun 2018

217000 mi

US $110
Driver's side lower control arm containing the lower ball joint was loose and had play. This was replaced 
Saab 9-3 in Alberta, Canada
Apr 2007 - Jun 2011
May 2007

17360 mi
Rattles and creaks in door panels and roof. Rattles still not repaired, I have since done light repairs myself and have eleminated most of the rattles, but some persist. Such a shame in a luxury car, just not acceptable. My dealer rating in service is 2/10... 
Jun 2007

19840 mi

C $2500
Door rattles, blown speaker 
Nov 2007

29760 mi
Door rattles are substaintially better, but sunroof rattles still persist. From the three visits to the dealer to have this resolved, this is by far the best fix they have done yet. I could live with it now. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 150hp 1.9L I4 Diesel 6-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in Great Britain
Jan 2006 - Mar 2011
Nov 2006 battery flat on delivery - replaced 
Aug 2007 wiring issue on engine - repaired on warranty 
Aug 2009

£300
egr valve faulty - replaced 
Aug 2010

£500
inlet manifold replaced - known issue but still had to pay - replaced 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4-door

turbocharged 6-cylinder manual 2WD

Saab 9-3 in New Mexico, United States
Jan 2007 - Mar 2010
Jun 2007

4000 mi
coolant leak 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 4-door

turbocharged 6-cylinder automatic 2WD

Saab 9-3 in Michigan, United States
Apr 2007 - Mar 2010
Jul 2007

27000 mi
Electrical system problem. Radio and other controls wouldn't turn off. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Saab 9-3 in Pennsylvania, United States
Feb 2013 - Oct 2021
Mar 2013

86000 mi

US $300
Blower Motor 
May 2014

104700 mi

US $100
Oil sensor leak 
Jul 2018

117000 mi

US $120
Replace ICM 
Saab 9-3 in Massachusetts, United States
Jan 2014 - Aug 2015
Apr 2014

59300 mi
Expansion tank hoses needed to be replaced. known issue, 
Jul 2014

61500 mi

US $2600
Check engine light code indicated fuel pressure out of spec. Replace sensor and pump. $1600 for both Rough shift third to fourth. Replace trans fluid twice 
Dec 2014

67000 mi

US $1300
Since July 2014 car had been missing at idle. No problems under load. Problem not reproducible when brought into shop during Sept 2014. Problem set CEL Dec 2014. Codes P0300, 0301,0303,0305,0306. Misfires. Replaced all ignition coils. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 250hp 2.8L V6 6-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in Great Britain
Sep 2014 - Sep 2018
Oct 2015

82300 mi

£230
radiator hose burst 
Mar 2016

85000 mi

£88
Car no start battery leaking only 18months old,new battery installed 
Apr 2017

97000 mi

£165
Rear brake cylinder leaking 
Dec 2017

107000 mi

£20
Burst radiator hose 
Saab 9-3 in Washington, United States
Jul 2013 - Jun 2018
Mar 2014

30000 mi

US $585
Fuel pump delivering inconsistent output pressure triggering CEL and stuttering at idle. Replaced fuel pump. 
Jul 2017

41000 mi
Takata airbag replacement recall 
Saab 9-3 in Alabama, United States
Oct 2007 - May 2012
Sep 2008

12000 mi
Replaced expansion tank and coolant. 
Sep 2009

22000 mi
Reprogrammed auto-up windows so they would close appropriately. 
Jun 2010

30000 mi
vacuum hose replaced 
Sep 2010

33000 mi
Low coolant light appeared. Coolant tank replaced. Key became hard to remove from ignition. Ignition switch replaced. Driver's seat stitching came loose. Seat cover replaced. 
Jan 2012

US $200
Headlamp washer unit missing and had to be replaced. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Saab 9-3 in New York, United States
Nov 2013 - Jul 2018
Jul 2018

114000 mi

US $140
Rear shocks 
Saab 9-3 in California, United States
Feb 2008 - Jun 2022
Apr 2008

33000 mi
Broken trunk liner clip. 
May 2008

34000 mi
Anti pinch feature not working properly on Pass. front window. A/C did not get cold. Second key fob not recognized by computer. 
Jul 2008

36000 mi
Lt Rear seatbelt would not retract. 
Jan 2009

40000 mi
AC compressor making unusual noise. Anti-pinch on passenger window malfunctioning. 
Feb 2009

41000 mi
Replaced AC Compressor. Replaced passenger window module. 
Jun 2009

45000 mi
Faulty ignition coil. Ordered and installed replacement. 
Sep 2009

50000 mi
Passenger window anti-pinch mal-function. 
Jun 2010

59000 mi

US $150
Electric mirror switch was found faulty and replaced 
Jul 2011

80000 mi

US $600
Uneven wear pattern on right rear tire indicated worn shock absorber. Decided to replace all 4 shocks and struts. Also replaced front brake pads and rotors while front end was apart. New tires and alignment the following week. 
Nov 2011

86000 mi

US $15
In Dash CD changer would not play CDs. "disk error." R&R CD spindle motor. 
Sep 2012

104000 mi

US $55
Stability control failure message on dash display. Took to independent mechanic for diagnosis. Mechanic identified TSB suggesting need to reprogram traction control module, but does not have required equipment to perform said update. 
Apr 2013

111200 mi

US $1750
Traction control warning displayed on dash. Dealer diagnosed as faulty ABS module. Replaced module with new. 
Jul 2015

130000 mi

US $30
Power Steering Reservoir leaking at power steering pump. Removed PS pump, removed reservoir from pump. replaced seal, reassembled. Driver side mirror fell off. Removed mirror backing, replaced mirror glass, reinstalled mirror. 
Aug 2015

130700 mi
Engine oil leak. Removed subframe brace and cleaned lower end of engine to determine source of leak. Faulty seal at oil pan to engine block. 
Dec 2015

134000 mi

US $270
Knocking in front suspension when going over bumps. Problem diagnosed as worn ball joints in front lower control arms. Removed and replaced both front lower control arms. Problem persists. 
Feb 2016

135300 mi

US $50
Sway bar links worn. Removed and replaced sway bar links. Knocking when going over bumps resolved. 
Feb 2017

139000 mi

US $25
Temp and Fuel gauges read about 1/4 gauge high. Would not return to correct zero point when vehicle turned off. Reset gauge cluster by removing fuse F4. Problem resolved. Water soaks into convertible top fabric, then migrates to inside of weatherstripping over door. When door is opened (driver or passenger) water pours out of weatherstrip onto seats. Cleaned and treated top with 303 Convertible Top Care Kit 
Mar 2017

140000 mi

US $5
Passenger side mirror glass came loose from its backing. Was noticed before glass completely detached, so was able to remedy prior to glass falling and breaking on its own. Glass was completely removed, backing cleaned, and re-adhered using RTV silicon adhesive. 
Dec 2017

143000 mi

US $75
Oil leak at sump gasket surface. Removed oil sump, cleaned surfaces, reinstalled. 
May 2018

146000 mi

US $150
Driver seat upholstery was worn and tearing at the seams. Replaced upholstery with OEM. 
Jan 2022

180000 mi

US $600
Audio would randomly cutout while driving. Suspected fault in optical bus. Replaced Amp1, problem persists. Replaced Amp2, problem persists. Replaced Infotainment Control Module, problem persists. Replaced radio unit, problem resolved. 
Jun 2022

180000 mi

US $300
Convertible top hydraulic cylinder was leaking at seal. Replaced with rebuilt unit. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 2dr Convertible

turbocharged 210hp 2.0L I4 5-speed manual FWD

Saab 9-3 in Ohio, United States
May 2008 - Apr 2012
Dec 2008

15000 mi
"Snapping" sound from front when turning tight circles. Diagnosed as a bad CV joint. This "problem" has been present for a while - maybe always. With the state of GM, I decided to have it looked at now rather than closer to warranty expiration. 
Jan 2009

16000 mi
Vehicle was inspected in the shop in December and the necessary part for the repair was ordered. The part arrived very late in the month. A day in January was scheduled for the repair, which was performed on schedule.  
Jun 2010

24000 mi
Rubber covering over key/remote deteriorated. Dealer replaced the key/remote. 

Return to top

2006 Saab 9-3 2-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder automatic 2WD

Saab 9-3 in New Jersey, United States
Sep 2011 - Aug 2014
Jan 2014

60000 mi

US $150
Alarm trunk goes off when doors r locked. Can't seem to correct I found an online solution & forwarded to dealer.  Heat not working. They replaced the thermostat. Turns out after they replaced insulation was blocking floor vent.  Seat belt not retracting. Cleaned housing 

Return to top

2005.5 Saab 9-3 2-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD

Saab in Germany
Dec 2006 - Sep 2008
Nov 2007

39060 mi
in-dash cd-changer sometimes not working 
Dec 2007

40300 mi
damaged pneumatic piston for bootlid-opener replaced under warranty  Replaced sun blind passenger seat which had a small defect. 
May 2008

46500 mi
Pinch protection fault re-set. 
Jun 2008

46500 mi
Finally managed to replace in-dash CD-changer which was ordered earlier. Fully paid by manufacturer.  Also fixed rattling a-pillar which occured after front-pane was replaced. 

Return to top

See TrueDelta's information for all Sedans, Convertibles, and Wagons.
See TrueDelta's information for all Saab models.

2006 Saab 9-3 Repair Histories

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently 2006 Saab 9-3 problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.