2001 SAAB 9-3

4 recalls, 74 complaints - 62 TSBs

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Defect Description

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL PUMP RETAINING TABS HOLDING THE FUEL LINES WERE DAMAGED DURING PRODUCTION.

Consequence

OVER TIME, THIS COULD CAUSE THE FUEL LINES TO LOOSEN FROM THE PUMP RESULTING IN FUEL LEAKAGE. IF AN IGNITION SOURCE WERE PRESENT, THE FUEL MAY IGNITE RESULTING IN A VEHICLE FIRE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL DEVELOP A SECURING BRACKET THAT WILL SECURE THE FUEL LINES TO THE FUEL PUMP EVEN IF THE PLASTIC RETAINING TABS SHOULD BREAK. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 12, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.

11,886 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE

Defect Description

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH B205/B235 4-CYLINDER GASOLINE ENGINES AND B308 6-CYLINDER GASOLINE ENGINES MAY EXPERIENCE OVERHEATING AND BURNOUT OF THE ISOLATED GATED BIPOLAR TRANSISTOR (IGBT) WITHIN THE IGNITION DISCHARGE MODULE (IDM) DUE TO INCREASED SUSCEPTIBILITY TO ELECTRICAL LOADS.

Consequence

OVERHEATING OF THE IGBT OCCURS MOST OFTEN AT ENGINE START-UP, BUT IT MAY ALSO OCCUR WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING. ENGINE STALLING MAY OCCUR, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT TO SEE WHAT VERSION IDM IS IN THE VEHICLE AND REPLACE THE IDM IF IT IS A VERSION BUILT PRIOR TO THE INTRODUCTION OF QP3. AN INTERIM LETTER WILL BE MAILED TO OWNERS IN OCTOBER 2005, INFORMING THEM OF THE CONDITION. PARTS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AND OWNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED TO BRING TH... Read more

103,202 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Defect Description

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL PUMP RETAINING TABS HOLDING THE FUEL LINES WERE DAMAGED DURING PRODUCTION.

Consequence

OVER TIME, THIS COULD CAUSE THE FUEL LINES TO LOOSEN FROM THE PUMP RESULTING IN FUEL LEAKAGE. IF AN IGNITION SOURCE WERE PRESENT, THE FUEL MAY IGNITE RESULTING IN A VEHICLE FIRE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL DEVELOP A SECURING BRACKET THAT WILL SECURE THE FUEL LINES TO THE FUEL PUMP EVEN IF THE PLASTIC RETAINING TABS SHOULD BREAK. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 14, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.

17,394 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.

AIR BAGS

Defect Description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." THE AIR BAG ALERT LABELS MAY NOT BE PERMANENTLY AFFIXED AS REQUIRED BY THIS STANDARD.

Consequence

THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL CLEAN THE SUNVISOR SURFACE AND APPLY A NEW AIR BAG ALERT LABEL ON BOTH SUNVISORS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 30, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SA... Read more

43,073 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.

Complaint Statistics

74 total complaints 2 crashes 1 fires 4 injuries 2 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE	9
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS	8
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	8
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	7
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION	6
AIR BAGS	4
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	4
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	3
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE	2
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP	2

Incident date: Nov 20, 2024

The vehicle fails to accelerate from a stop in snow mode. Engine does not respond to acceleration pedal. My wife was stuck halfway in a intersection of a state highway. She had to shut off engine and restart the vehicle to get the car to function. No warning lights appeared. This has happened t... Read more

Incident date: Nov 20, 2024

Reduce spreed unknown if related to fuel pressure regulator since repaired twice told could be to service bulletin. Warning lights keeps appearing while driving at a speed of 40 to 50 mph.

Incident date: Oct 11, 2021

unexpected and unrequested deployment of driver side seat air bag. i was driving the vehicle at a speed of 0-5mph attempting to back the vehicle into a parking spot when the driver seat air bag deployed. a report was made with the local police department. no indicator or failure lights were present,... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: May 10, 2021

I left my home with my daughter in the afternoon to go to the bank and hardware store. I drove to the bank to make a deposit. We had to wait for quite awhile in the drive-through line at the bank, so I turned off my engine a couple of times rather than having the car idle. After making the deposit ... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: Mar 4, 2020

NO INCIDENT

Incident date: Mar 4, 2020

NO INCIDENT

Incident date: Mar 4, 2020

NO INCIDENT

Incident date: Feb 5, 2019

EXCESSIVE LEAKING. WAS DRIVING ON E-WAY AND ENGINE STOPPED OR SOMETHING OCCURED WHERE IT SOUNDED AS IF THE CAR TURNED OFF. THE BATTERY WAS WORKING BUT, WHEN I PRESSED ON ACCELERATOR IT DIDN'T PROPEL FORWARD. I CAREFULLY STEERED WITH HAZARD LIGHTS TO SIDE OF THE ROAD. IGNITION CRANKS BUT, CAR WON'T T... Read more

Incident date: Aug 25, 2016

WHEN I CHANGED THE BATTERY OF THE CAR KEY, ITS DOORS AND TRUNK STOPPED LOCK AND UNLOCK. THE BELT OF THE GAS TANK WAS BROKEN ALSO. I REPLACED ALSO THE FUEL TANK.

Incident date: Aug 25, 2016

WHEN I CHANGED THE BATTERY OF THE CAR KEY, ITS DOORS AND TRUNK STOPPED LOCK AND UNLOCK. THE BELT OF THE GAS TANK WAS BROKEN ALSO. I REPLACED ALSO THE FUEL TANK.

Incident date: Aug 25, 2016

WHEN I CHANGED THE BATTERY OF THE CAR KEY, ITS DOORS AND TRUNK STOPPED LOCK AND UNLOCK. THE BELT OF THE GAS TANK WAS BROKEN ALSO. I REPLACED ALSO THE FUEL TANK.

Incident date: Jan 1, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START WHILE THE BATTERY WARNING INDICATOR WAS ILLUMINATED. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE WOULD STALL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION DISCHARGE MODULE FAILED AND N... Read more

Incident date: Oct 9, 2010

TL * THE CONTACT OWNED A 2001 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT WAS INVOLVED IN A CRASH AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE DRIVER DIED AND A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE SPEED WAS 40-45 MPH. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 98,000. UPDATED 09/11/14*LJ ... Read more

Crash 1 injured 1 deaths

Incident date: Oct 9, 2010

Crash 1 injured 1 deaths

Incident date: Jul 1, 2013

WHEN COMING TO A STOP AT AN INTERSECTION, THE DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT LOCKS REPEATEDLY MAKING IT IMPOSSIBLE TO LEAN FORWARD TO SEE IF THE INTERSECTION IS CLEAR. EVEN AFTER SLOWLY LEANING ALL OF THE WAY BACK AND TRYING TO LEAN FORWARD AGAIN, IT LOCKS. THE SEAT BELT MUST BE REMOVED TO AVOID BEING HELD ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 2, 2011

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 9-3 CONVERTIBLE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ENGAGE THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL EXTENDED TO THE FLOOR WITH OUT ANY WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 21, 2012

BROUGHT MY 2001 SAAB 9-3 FOR CAMPAIGN RECALL 05V399000 IDM TO DIRITO BROTHERS SAAB OF WALNUT CREEK, CALIFORNIA. DEALER STATED NOT REQUIRED TO CHANGE THE IDM. IF MY IDM FAILS AT A LATER DATE, I COULD BE SUSCEPTIBLE TO INJURY OR DEATH. NEED TO KNOW IF DEALER IS REQUIRED TO CHANGE IDM. *TR

Incident date: Nov 21, 2012

Incident date: Mar 5, 2011

SAAB 93 - HEATED DRIVER SEAT MELTED A HOLE IN THE SEAT. *TR

Incident date: Mar 10, 2009

AT APPROXIMATELY 75,000 MILES, DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE AROUND 70MPH, OIL LIGHT BEGINS FLICKERING. AFTER SLOWING DOWN TO 60 THE LIGHT STOPPED FLICKERING AND INSTEAD STAYED ON. FROM THE TIME I WAS ABLE TO SLOW DOWN TO PULL OFF THE ROAD A KNOCKING SOUND COULD BE HEARD FROM THE ENGINE PROGRESSIVELY ... Read more

Incident date: May 16, 2010

DRIVING ON FREEWAY ON RAMP, WITHOUT WARNING VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC, ALMOST CAUSING A SERIOUS CRASH. TOOK VEHICLE TO MECHANIC AND IT WAS DISCOVER THAT THERE WAS A FAULTY THROTTLE BODY. PART WAS REPLACED. *TR

Incident date: May 16, 2010

Incident date: Sep 15, 2009

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 9-3. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE OIL PRESSURE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF AND THE LIGHT TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSIS AND THE MECHANIC FLUSHED THE OIL SLUDGE OUT. THE CURRENT MILEAGE... Read more

Incident date: Jun 24, 2008

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID # 04V557000 AND 06V126000 ARE RECALLS WHICH NECESSITATED SAAB TO INSPECT THE FUEL PUMP BRACKETS. THE 2001 SAAB 9-3, WHICH I OWN, WAS FIRST REPAIRED BECAUSE THE FUEL LINES WERE CORRUPTED AND CAUSED FUEL TO PUMP OUT INTO THE OPEN ON TOP OF THE GAS TANK. THIS WAS REPAIRED UNDER WARR... Read more

Incident date: Jul 8, 2007

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 9-3. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL STOPPED FUNCTIONING AND THE BRAKE PEDAL HAD TO BE APPLIED WITH MORE PRESSURE THAN NORMAL TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE OCCURS EVERY TIME THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN. THE CONTACT DID NOT NOTICE ANY DIFFERENCES IN TH... Read more

Incident date: Jul 8, 2007

Incident date: Dec 14, 2006

THE DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE HAS BEEN REPLACED FOUR DIFFERENT TIMES. THE INITIAL REPLACEMENT WAS ONLY 8,000 MILES INTO THE ORIGINAL OWNERSHIP. THE LAST TWO WERE IN 2006 WITH 80,000 MILES. IT IS APPARENT CONTINUED PROBLEMS HAVE BEEN EXPERIENCED WITH THIS VEHICLE. *TR

Incident date: Apr 18, 2008

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 9-3. WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT DROVE TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE IGNITION CASSETTE FAILED. SHE THEN FOUND A RECALL ON HER VEHICLE FOR THE SAME FAILURE HER VEHICLE WAS EXPERIENCING; HOWEVER, THE DEALER STATED TH... Read more

Incident date: Apr 18, 2008

Incident date: Dec 19, 2007

2001 SAAB 9-3 WITH OIL LIGHT ILLUMINATED. CONSUMER STATES THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESTART WHEN PULLED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. CONSUMER STATED THAT THERE WERE A LOT OF REPORTS OF OIL SLUDGE ON THIS MAKE AND MODEL. *KB THE CONSUMER HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE DEALER AND WAS INFORMED THE VEHICL... Read more

Incident date: Dec 17, 2007

NO WARNING. OIL LIGHT GOES ON WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. VEHICLE TOWED TO SAAB DEALERSHIP. ENGINE SEIZED. SLUDGE FOUND IN THE OIL PICKUP PAN. PERFECT SERVICE RECORDS. SAAB/GM WILL NOT HONOR EXTENDED 8 YEAR WARRANTY. FOR KNOWN SLUDGE PROBLEM. *TR

Incident date: Dec 19, 2007

ENGINE SEIZED. *TR

Incident date: Nov 10, 2007

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 9-3. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE RISING FROM UNDER THE DRIVER SEAT. HER LEGS BECAME EXTREMELY HOT SO SHE PULLED OVER AND SHUT OFF THE SEAT WARMER. THE VEHICLE BECAME ENGULFED WITH SMOKE AND A HOLE WAS BURNED INTO THE DRIVER SEAT. ... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Mar 26, 2007

TL* - THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 93. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS SAFETY RECALL ON THE IGNITION DISCHARGE MODULE. THE FIRST TIME HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER TO HAVE THE SAFETY RECALL REPAIR WORK DONE WAS 04/17/2006. THE CONTACT DROVE BACK HOME AT 60 MPH FOR APPROXIMATELY 40 MILES,... Read more

Incident date: Feb 12, 2007

CAR TAKEN TO DEALER TWICE BECAUSE "CHECK ENGINE LIGHT" ON INTERMITTENTLY; TOLD THERE WERE "NO PROBLEMS" AND INSTRUCTED ON HOW TO CLEAR MESSAGE. "CHECK ENGINE LIGHT" AND "OIL" LIGHT BEGAN TO FLICKER INTERMITTENTLY; TAKEN TO 2 INDEPENDENT MECHANICS FOR CHECK; BOTH STATED THERE WAS OIL IN THE PAN, OIL... Read more

Incident date: Feb 12, 2007

Incident date: Jan 1, 1901

2001 9-3 ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED DUE TO A CRACKED CYLINDER. *TS WHEN THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP, SHE WAS TOLD THE SERIAL NUMBER ON THE MODULE WAS NOT THE ONE THAT WOULD BE REPLACED. A FEW MONTHS HAD PASSED AND THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN DETERMINED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS FROM THE R... Read more

Incident date: Dec 10, 2005

DEC. 10, 2005 WHILE DRIVING ON THE PA TURNPIKE OIL LIGHT CAME ON THEN WENT OFF. OIL LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN CAR LOST ALL POWER. SAAB TOWING LEFT US ON BUSY TURNPIKE FOR 2 1/2 HOURS IN FREEZING COLD. TOWED TO PURCHASE DEALER WAS TOLD NEEDS NEW ENGINE IT THROUGH A ROD. AFTER 2 MONTHS OF NO HELP FORM DEALE... Read more

Incident date: Mar 14, 2006

SAFETY RECALL 15018 MY CAR IS A SAAB MODEL: 9-3, IT HAD THE FUEL LINE PROBLEM IN SAFETY NOTICE 15018, WHICH IS STILL AN OPEN FILE. SAAB SAYS THAT BECAUSE MY VIN IS NOT PART OF THE RECALL, I DO NOT HAVE A PROBLEM. I DID HAVE THE PROBLEM. IT COULD HAVE KILLED US. I NOW UNDERSTAND ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 30, 2006

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE ENGINE STALLED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE LAST TIME THE ENGINE STALLED WHILE TRAVELING AT A HIGHWAY SPEED OF 65-70 MPH. THE VEHICLE COASTED OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITHOUT INCIDENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. THERE WERE NO PRIOR WARNING. THE VEHICLE HAS BE... Read more

Incident date: Mar 15, 2006

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 55MPH, THE OIL LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THERE WAS A VERY LOUD NOISE AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. IT WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL DEALERSHIP WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THE VEHICLE THREW A ROD. AFTER TWO MONTHS, THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. T... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2006

WITHOUT WARNING, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT RE-START ONCE TURNED OFF AND THE KEY TAKEN OUT OF THE IGNITION. I WAS UNABLE TO TURN THE KEY TO RE-START THE VEHICLE AND ALSO HEARD A "THUNK" SOUND WHEN ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE WHICH ORIGINATED DIRECTLY BELOW THE INSERTED KEY. I WAS ABLE TO GET THE VEHI... Read more

Incident date: Feb 26, 2006

MY 2001 SAAB 9-3 BEGAN LEAKING FUEL, CULMINATING WITH A MAJOR LEAK OF FUEL FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE VEHICLE ON 2/26. CAR WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, WHO EXPLAINED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS WITH TABS HOLDING IN THE FUEL PUMP. RECALL NUMBER 04V557 WAS THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM, EXACT SAME MAKE, MODEL AND YEAR BU... Read more

Incident date: Nov 3, 2005

DT CONTACT STATED THE FUEL LINE WAS LEAKING. THERE WAS RECALL 04V557000. WHEN SHUTTING THE VEHICLE OFF A QUART OF GASOLINE WILL POUR OUT UNDER THE VEHICLE. HE CONTACTED THE DEALER, AND DEALER STATED THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, AND T... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2005

DT: THE CONTACT STATED THE FUEL LINE CAME OFF THE FUEL PUMP. THE CAR WAS SPURTING GAS. THE CONTACT TOOK THE CAR TO THE NEAREST GARAGE. THEY REPLACED THE FUEL PUMP. HE FOUND NHTSA RECALL 04V557000/SAAB RECALL 15018 WHICH DEALT WITH A SIMILAR PROBLEM AS HIS VEHICLE. THE DEALERSHIP TOLD HIM THI... Read more

Incident date: Oct 24, 2005

I WAS TRAVELING IN A ROTARY THAT IS AN ON-RAMP TO 128 IN READING, MA. AND WAS ABOUT TO ACCELERATE UP THE ON-RAMP WHEN THE CAR DIED, BATTERY LIGHT CAME ON, POWER STEERING FAILED. THIS WAS DURING RUSH HOUR AND THERE WAS NO SAFE PLACE TO PULL OVER, LUCKILY A STATE TROOPER PULLED UP WITHIN ABOUT 2 MINU... Read more

Incident date: Oct 24, 2005

A FUEL LEAK FROM THE BRACKETS THAT HOLD THE FUEL TANK TOGETHER. A RECALL HAS BEEN FILED ON SAAB 9-3 2001 -2004 CARS. THIS IS SAAB 9-3 2001, RECALL NUMBER IS 04V557000, VIN NUMBER [XXX], IT SEEMS IF THIS HAS A RECALL ON SOME CARS, IF A CAR HAS THE PROBLEM YOU WOULD THINK IT WOULD BE FIXED BY THE REC... Read more

Incident date: Oct 4, 2005

DT: 2001 SAAB 93. THE CONSUMER STATES GAS STARTED COMING OUT WHERE THE FUEL LINE WAS. THIS STARTED LAST NIGHT,ON OCTOBER 4, 2005. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A GARAGE, AND THEY STATED IT WAS THE FUEL CLIP. THE MECHANIC TOLD THE CONSUMER THERE WAS A RECALL 04V557000 ON THIS PROBLEM. THE CONSUMER ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 6, 2005

WHILE DRIVING MY CAR, I SMELLED GAS AND WHEN I GOT IT BACK TO MY JOB SITE, I LOOKED UNDERNEATH TO SEE GAS LEAKING FROM UNDER MY CAR. I CALLED MY GARAGE AND THEY HAD TO TOW IT IN DUE TO THE SAFETY ISSUES. THEY PUT IN A NEW SEAL AND SNAPPED THE FUEL LINE BACK TOGETHER BECASUE THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTH... Read more

Showing 50 of 74 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 2001 SAAB 9-3

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
2.0L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	18.0	26.0	21.0	Premium	$3,650
2.0L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	18.0	25.0	21.0	Regular	$2,950
2.0L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	19.0	28.0	22.0	Premium	$3,500
2.0L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	19.0	26.0	22.0	Regular	$2,850

CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Midsize Cars)

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2001 SAAB 9-3

62 manufacturer communications from 41 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	11
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	7
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	6
200000 WHEELS	4
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	4
350000 EQUIPMENT	4
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL	4
353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)	4

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels shou

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.

100000 POWER TRAIN

This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.

200000 WHEELS

This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.

200000 WHEELS

This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

THIS INFORMATIONAL BULLETIN PROVIDES ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON HOW TO INSTALL PISTONS AND SUGGEST WHAT TOOLS TO USE.

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

THIS TECHNICAL BULLETIN PROVIDES A PROCEDURE TO REPROGRAM THE MEDIA DISC PLAYER WITH THE LATEST CALIBRATIONS TO CORRECT A CONDITION OF THE REAR ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM NOT OPERATING AS INTENDED IN COLDER AMBIENT TEMPERATURE AREAS DUE TO CALIBR

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

THIS INFORMATIONAL BULLETIN PROVIDES INFORMATION TO GM DEALERS ON THE CORRECT CLEANING METHODS WHEN CLEANING ENGINE GASKET SEALING SURFACES.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THIS PRELIMINARY INFORMATION COMMUNICATION ADVISES THE TECHNICIAN IF UNABLE TO PLACE AN ONSTAR CALL IN THE IGNITION ON MODE AFTER THE ONSTAR CANADA UPGRADE, TO CONTACT THE GM TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER ONSTAR GROUP FOR FURTHER ASSISTANCE.

353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THIS PRELIMINARY INFORMATION COMMUNICATION PROVIDES INFORMATION TO HELP THE DEALERSHIP TECHNICIANS PERFORM A PARASITIC DRAIN TEST FOR THE ONSTAR MODULE. WHEN PERFORMING BATTERY PARASITIC DRAIN TEST, THERE MAY BE SOME CONFUSION AS TO WHAT TH

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THIS PRELIMINARY INFORMATION COMMUNICATION ADVISES THE TECHNICIAN THE STEPS ON REPAIRING THE CONCERN. A CUSTOMER MAY IDENTIFY A CONCERN OF UNABLE TO REACTIVATE A VEHICLE'S ONSTAR THAT HAS BEEN PREVIOUSLY DISABLED BY ONSTAR. DEALER IS TO CA

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)

THIS PRELIMINARY INFORMATION COMMUNICATION ADVISES THE TECHNICIAN ON THE STEPS FOR DIAGNOSING THE CONCERN. THE VEHICLE MAY BE UNABLE TO CONNECT TO ONSTAR USING THE WHITE, BLUE OR RED ONSTAR BUTTONS.

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)

THIS PRELIMINARY INFORMATION COMMUNICATION ADVISES THE TECHNICIAN, IF UNABLE TO PLACE AN ONSTAR CALL IN THE IGNITION ON MODE AFTER THE ONSTAR CANADA UPGRADE TO CONTACT THE GM TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER ONSTAR GROUP FOR FURTHER ASSISTANCE.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

OnStar? Voice Fallback Number Update Some customers may have received a letter from OnStar? stating that "We recently tried to provide a software update to the OnStar? hardware in your vehicle. However, your system could not be updated r

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Vehicle Recalls

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States

350000 EQUIPMENT

Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Refinishing Aluminum Wheels This bulletin updates General Motor's position on refinishing aluminum wheels. GM does not endorse any repairs that involve welding, bending, straightening o re-machining. Only cosmetic refinishing of the whe

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

200000 WHEELS

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

200000 WHEELS

161100 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS

Underbody Component Corrosion The following information may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers. Some customers may comment that one or more of their vehicle's underbody components are showing some fo

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

161100 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.

221300 SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT

GENERAL MOTORS: INFORMATION PROVIDED BY BULLETIN FOR ALL 2012 AND PRIOR GENERAL MOTOR TRUCKS AND PASSENGER VEHICLES REGARDING THE ADJUSTABLE COMFORT AND CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY OF THE DRIVER AND THE PASSENGER HEAD RESTRAINT. *PE

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

GENERAL MOTORS CORP: SPECIAL COVERAGE ADJUSTMENT; ANALOG ONSTAR DEACTIVATION. *PE UPDATED 2/17/09. *PE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

GENERAL MOTORS CORP: SPECIAL COVERAGE ADJUSTMENT; ANALOG ONSTAR DEACTIVATION. *PE UPDATED 2/17/09. *PE

353500 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:NAVIGATIONAL SYSTEM(GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM)

GENERAL MOTORS CORP: SPECIAL COVERAGE ADJUSTMENT; ANALOG ONSTAR DEACTIVATION. *PE UPDATED 2/17/09. *PE

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

BUICK\CADILLAC\CHEVROLET\GMC\HUMMER\OLDSMOBILE\PONTIAC\SAAB\SATURN SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. SPECIAL COVERAGE ADJUSTMENT-ANALOG ONSTAR DEACTIVATION. FCC RULED IN 2002 WIRELESS CARRIERS WOULD NO LONGER R

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

NOISE FROM THE TIMING CHAIN AND OIL SLUDGE IN THE ENGINE. *KB

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

REDUCED PERFORMANCE AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES FOR THE TURBO CONTROL VALVE. *EH

061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

NEW FAULT DIAGNOSIS FOR IGNITION DISCHARGE MODULE, TRIONIC 7. *TT

021000 SUSPENSION:FRONT

ADDRESSING CUSTOMER COMPLAINTS OF POPPING NOISE FROM FRONT SUSPENSION. *TT

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

ON SOME VIGGEN MODELS FROM M99 TO M01 VIN 17016680, THE OUTER BRACKETS OF THE REAR SPOILER CAN WARP, CAUSING THE SPOILER TO VIBRATE AND RATTLE. *TT

162900 STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS

SOME CONVERTIBLE MODELS UP TO AND INCLUDING VIN 17004113 MAY EXHIBIT A SOFT TOP THAT MAY STOP HALFWAY DURING CLOSING OR OPENING AND THE SID UNIT SHOWS A CHECK SOFT TOP MESSAGE. *TT

102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION

SUBJECT REGARDING NEW UPDATE KIT FOR MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS. *TT

NHTSA Safety Investigations, SAAB 9-3

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2004

SEAT BELT RETRACTOR

ODI HAS RECEIVED EIGHT COMPLAINTS OF FRONT SEAT BELT RETRACTORS BREAKING ON MODEL YEAR 2004 SAAB 9-3 VEHICLES.A COMMON FAILURE SCENARIO INVOLVES THE DRIVER HEARING A NOISE AND THE BELT SUDDENLY LOSING TENSION.A NON-FUNCTIONING SEAT BELT INCREASES THE RISK AND SEVERITY OF INJURY IN THE EVENT OF A CRA... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2007

ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE

THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) IS AWARE OF 7 SUBJECT VEHICLES THAT HAVE ALLEGEDLY EXPERIENCED ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES ORIGINATING AT THE COIL-ON-PLUG (COP) IGNITION COIL ASSEMBLY AND 28 ALLEGED NON-FIRE THERMAL EVENTS RESULTING IN DAMAGE LIMITED TO THE SUBJECT COMPONENT AND ASSOCIATED WI... RING. ALL REPORTED INCIDENTS OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLES WERE ATTENDED AND IN ALL BUT ONE CASE THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WERE REPAIRED AND RETURNED TO SERVICE AFTER THE INCIDENT INVOLVING THE ALLEGED DEFECT. ACCORDING TO GENERAL MOTORS (GM), A CERAMIC CAPACITOR USED IN THE ELECTROMAGNETIC NOISE FILTER CIRCUIT INSIDE THE SUBJECT COMPONENT MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS. A FRACTURE INSIDE THE CAPACITOR MAY, DEPENDING ON ITS SIZE AND LOCATION, RESULT IN A RESISTIVE SHORT CIRCUIT. WHEN ENERGIZED, THE RESISTIVE SHORT CIRCUIT MAY CAUSE HEAT THAT CAN MELT THE POTTING EPOXY AROUND THE CIRCUIT BOARD AND LEAD TO SMOKE, ODOR AND IN SOME INSTANCES FIRE. OTHER SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE A MISFIRE CONDITION RESULTING IN ROUGH RUNNING AND/OR ILLUMINATION OF THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON TELLTALE LIGHT. ALL 7 FIRES OCCURRED RELATIVELY EARLY IN THE SERVICE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE AT 120, 171, 198, 207, 297, 365 AND 394 DAYS IN SERVICE, RESPECTIVELY. ODI ANALYSIS INDICATES THAT APPROXIMATELY 98% OF THE SUBJECT VEHICLE POPULATION IS NOW BEYOND THE EXPOSURE AGE AT WHICH FIRE INCIDENTS WERE OBSERVED. THE LAST KNOWN FIRE INCIDENT OCCURRED IN MAY 2009 ON A VEHICLE THAT HAD 394 DAYS IN SERVICE AND THE LAST KNOW FIRE INCIDENT PREVIOUS TO THAT OCCURRED IN DECEMBER 2008 ON A VEHICLE THAT HAD 198 DAYS IN SERVICE. A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AT THIS TIME AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED. ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED. THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT DOES NOT EXIST. THE AGENCY WILL CONTINUE TO MONITOR THE FIELD EXPERIENCE OF THE SUBJECT VEHICLES AS IT RELATES TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT AND WILL TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES. ADDITIONALLY, THE MANUFACTURER WILL PROVIDE THE AGENCY WITH AN UPDATE OF COMPLAINT AND WARRANTY INFORMATION IN 6 MONTHS FROM THE CLOSING DATE OF THIS INVESTIGATION AND UNTIL THAT TIME IT WILL NOTIFY THE AGENCY WITHIN 5 BUSINESS DAYS OF ANY FIRE INCIDENTS IT BECOMES AWARE OF THAT RELATES, OR MAY RELATE, TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2003

Front Suspension Coil Spring Fracture

To date, ODI is aware of 142 non-duplicative complaints related to the alleged defect.In addition, ODI is aware of 2,626 subject vehicles with one or more warranty claims related to the alleged defect.In total, ODI is aware of 2,714 unique subject vehicles that have experienced one or more front sus... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2003

FRONT SUSPENSION COIL SPRING FRACTURE

ON AUGUST 28, 2008, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE08-051) TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED FRONT SUSPENSION COIL SPRING FRACTURES IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2003-2004 SAAB 9-3 VEHICLES SOLD OR REGISTERED IN SALT BELT STATES.(NOTE: FOR PURPOSES OF THIS INVESTIGATI... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2006

REDUCED BRAKE POWER-ASSIST

SAAB AUTOMOBILE AB, A SUBSIDIARY OF GENERAL MOTORS CORP. (GM), MANUFACTURED 12,317 SUBJECT VEHICLES THROUGH FEBRUARY 15, 2008, EQUIPPED WITH THE HIGH FEATURE V6 TURBOCHARGED ENGINE IDENTIFIED BY REGULAR PRODUCTION OPTION LP9.A TANDEM VACUUM BRAKE BOOSTER ASSEMBLY PROVIDES BRAKE POWER-ASSIST.THE ENGI... NE IS THE PRIMARY VACUUM SOURCE TO THE BOOSTER AND ITS EFFECT IS AMPLIFIED BY A VENTURI.UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, SUCH AS A COLD ENGINE START OR AT HIGH ALTITUDES, AN ELECTRIC VACUUM PUMP (EVP) SUPPLEMENTS ENGINE VACUUM.A PRESSURE SWITCH MEASURES BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM AND COMMANDS THE EVP WHEN TO TURN ON/OFF.CHECK VALVES ARE LOCATED AT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD, VENTURI, AND PRESSURE SWITCH. GM IDENTIFIED TWO ISSUES THAT AFFECT EVP PERFORMANCE: CORROSION OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS INSIDE THE PUMP CAUSED BY MOISTURE INGRESS THROUGH THE AIR OUTLET WHEN THE EVP SHUTS OFF AND THE VACUUM IN A SECTION OF PIPING BETWEEN THE EVP AND THE PRESSURE SWITCH IS RELEASED TO THE ATMOSPHERE; AND SILICONE CONTAMINATION OF THE ELECTRICAL CONTACTS INSIDE THE PRESSURE SWITCH RESULTING IN A NOISY OR IMPEDED ELECTRICAL SIGNAL.GM ADDRESSED EVP PERFORMANCE WITH TWO DESIGN CHANGES.IN NOVEMBER 2007, GM MODIFIED THE RUBBER PROTECTIVE CAP THAT COVERS THE EVP AIR OUTLET TO IMPROVE SEALING AND IN FEBRUARY 2008, GM ADDED A CHECK VALVE TO THE SECTION OF PIPING BETWEEN THE EVP AND THE PRESSURE SWITCH AS CLOSE AS POSSIBLE TO THE EVP IN AN EFFORT TO REDUCE THE BACK FLOW OF MOISTURE THROUGH THE PUMP. IN TOTAL, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) IS AWARE OF 240 SUBJECT VEHICLES AFFECTED BY THE ALLEGED DEFECT.COMPLAINANTS REPORT THAT SYMPTOMS OCCUR IMMEDIATELY AFTER A COLD ENGINE START AND ONLY FOR A SHORT DURATION (30 TO 60 SECONDS), DURING WHICH PERIOD THE AMOUNT OF BRAKE POWER-ASSIST PROVIDED TO THE OPERATOR MAY BE REDUCED DUE TO AN INOPERATIVE EVP.THE SYMPTOMS MAY BE MORE PRONOUNCED THE LONGER THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN PARKED AS THERE IS A NATURAL TENDENCY FOR THE BRAKE BOOSTER TO SLOWLY RELEASE THE VACUUM OVER TIME IF IT IS NOT REPLENISHED.FULL BRAKE POWER-ASSIST CAPABILITY RESUMES AFTER THIS BRIEF COLD START PERIOD OR IMMEDIATELY AFTER A WARM ENGINE START.THE THREE REPORTED CRASHES ALL OCCURRED AT LOW SPEEDS (< 5MPH) WHILE REVERSING FROM A GARAGE OR PARKING SPACE AND RESULTED IN MINIMAL TO MINOR PROPERTY DAMAGE. THE SUBJECT ISSUE DIFFERS FROM A PREVIOUS SAFETY RECALL (05V-236) AFFECTING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2003-2005 SAAB 9-3 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A DEFECTIVE CHECK VALVE THAT COULD BECOME BRITTLE AND FRACTURE, RESULTING IN A LASTING AND TOTAL LOSS OF BRAKE POWER-ASSIST AT ANY TIME.THE DEFECTIVE CHECK VALVE DID NOT MEET LIFETIME DURABILITY REQUIREMENTS AND GM PREDICTED A 100% FAILURE RATE AT LESS THAN 4 YEARS OF SERVICE.IN COMPARISON, GM PREDICTS AN EVP FAILURE RATE OF APPROXIMATELY 6.4% AT 3 YEARS IN SERVICE FOR THE SUBJECT VEHICLES RESULTING IN REDUCED BRAKE POWER-ASSIST FOR A SHORT DURATION.THE SUBJECT ISSUE ALSO DIFFERS FROM A PREVIOUS ODI INFLUENCED SAFETY RECALL (03V-474) TO ADDRESS EVP MOISTURE INGRESS IN CERTAIN MY 2000 VOLVO S40 AND V40 VEHICLES.THE RECALLED VOLVO VEHICLES UTILIZED A STEEL VACUUM PIPE BETWEEN THE EVP AND THE BRAKE BOOSTER.MOISTURE INGRESS AND SUBSEQUENT CORROSION COULD COMPROMISE THE VACUUM PIPE RESULTING IN A LASTING AND TOTAL LOSS OF BRAKE POWER-ASSIST.MOISTURE DOES NOT APPEAR TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THE POLYETHER-ESTER PLASTIC VACUUM PIPE USED IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES. A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AT THIS TIME AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATIONRead more

RQ, Closed , Model Year: 2001

FUEL LINE LEAKAGE

ON NOVEMBER 19, 2004 GM NOTIFIED ODI OF A DEFECT CONDITION THAT COULD RESULT IN FUEL LEAKAGE AT THE FUEL PUMP CONNECTIONS IN APPROXIMATELY 17,400 MODEL YEAR (MY) 2001 AND 2002 SAAB 9-3 PASSENGER VEHICLES BUILT AT THE UUSIKAUPUNKI, FINLAND ASSEMBLY PLANT BETWEEN MAY 2000 AND JULY 2002 (GM RECALL NO. ... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1999

ENGINE STALL/ ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES

ODI OPENED PE05-017 BASED ON 35 REPORTS OF ALLEGED ENGINE STALLING DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THE IDM CASSETTE ON THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.ALL COMPLAINANTS REPORTED THAT THE ENGINE SHUT DOWN SUDDENLY WITHOUT WARNING AND MOST REPORTED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESTART.IN 3 INCIDENTS, THE COMPLAINANTS REPORTE... D SMOKE AND/OR FIRE RESULTED FROM THE IDM FAILURE.DURING PE05-017, ADDITIONAL FAILURE DATA WAS IDENTIFIED AS NOTED IN THE FAILURE REPORT SUMMARY ABOVE.THE COMPLAINT DATA REPRESENTS INCIDENTS WHERE THE COMPLAINANTS ALLEGED A STALL OR FIRE.ON SEPTEMBER 13, 2005, GENERAL MOTORS (GM) NOTIFIED NHTSA OF A SAFETY DEFECT ON 95,081 MY 2000-2002 SAAB 9-3 AND 9-5 VEHICLES WITH 4-CYLINDER GASOLINE ENGINES AND 8,117 MY 2001 9-5 VEHICLES WITH 6- CYLINDER GASOLINE ENGINES (RECALL 05V-399).THE NOTIFICATION STATED THAT CERTAIN VEHICLES WITHIN THESE POPULATIONS MAY EXPERIENCE OVERHEATING AND BURNOUT OF THE ISOLATED GATED BIPOLAR TRANSISTOR (IGBT) WITHIN THE IDM DUE TO INCREASED SUSCEPTIBILITY TO ELECTRICAL LOADS.OVERHEATING OF THE IGBT OCCURS MOST OFTEN AT ENGINE START-UP FOR BOTH A 4-CYLINDER AND 6-CYLINDER ENGINE, BUT IT MAY ALSO OCCUR WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING.WHEN THE IDM FAILS ON A 4-CYLINDER WHILE IT IS RUNNING, THE ENGINE MAY STALL WITHOUT WARNING, WITH NO ABILITY TO BE RESTARTED.WHEN THE IDM FAILS ON A 6-CYLINDER ENGINE WHILE IT IS RUNNING, THE DRIVER WILL INITIALLY EXPERIENCE REDUCED POWER AND ROUGH OPERATION BECAUSE THE ENGINE WILL ONLY BE RUNNING ON THREE CYLINDERS.THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WILL FLASH.IF THE DRIVER CONTINUES, UNBURNT FUEL IN THE EXHAUST CAN CAUSE THERMAL DAMAGE TO THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER.THE ENGINE MAY STALL AND NOT RESTART.THERMAL DAMAGE TO OTHER UNDERHOOD COMPONENTS AND THE UNDERBODY MAY ALSO RESULT FROM PROLONGED DRIVING.THE RECALL POPULATION ENCOMPASSES 84% OF THE STALLING AND FIRE COMPLAINTS (215 FOR VEHICLES WITH 4-CYLINDER ENGINES AND 36 FOR VEHICLES WITH 6-CYLINDER ENGINES).THE 36 MONTHS IN SERVICE (MIS) STALLING RATES FOR EACH MODEL YEAR OF RECALLED VEHICLES WITH 4-CYLINDER ENGINES WERE ALL GREATER THAN TWO PERCENT.ALTHOUGH THE 36 MIS STALL RATE FOR THE RECALLED MY 2001 VEHICLES WITH V6 ENGINES WAS LOWER, AT 1.3 PERCENT, THESE VEHICLES ALSO HAD THE HIGHEST RATE OF CONFIRMED (OPEN FLAME VERIFIED) FIRES AT 62 PER 100,000 VEHICLES.GM WILL INSTRUCT OWNERS TO BRING THEIR VEHICLES TO A DEALER FOR IDM INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT, IF NECESSARY.CONSEQUENTLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.ODI WILL MONITOR THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE SCOPE AND REMEDY OF GM'S ACTION AND TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED.Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2003

ENGINE STALL

ON DECEMBER 30, 2003, ODI OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE03-059) TO INVESTIGATE 16 COMPLAINTS ALLEGING ENGINE STALL WHILE DRIVING IN MODEL YEAR 2003 SAAB 9-3 SPORT SEDANS WITH 2.0L TURBOCHARGED ENGINES.ON JANUARY 15, 2004, GENERAL MOTORS (GM) ADVISED ODI THAT GM AND SAAB HAD DECIDED TO CONDUCT A... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2003

ENGINE STALL

THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS AND TURBOCHARGED ENGINES WITH TWO DIFFERENT POWER OUTPUTS, 175 HP AND 210 HP.SAAB HAS MODIFIED THE ELECTONIC CONTROL MODULE (ECM) SOFTWARE IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES TO CORRECT PROBLEMS THAT COULD RESULT IN ENGINE STALL IN BOTH ENGINES. IN ... Read more

SAAB 9-3 - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the SAAB 9-3 across all model years (1999, 2011).

47 Total Recalls

1,692 Total Complaints

9 Investigations

84 Reported Crashes

30 Reported Fires

4 Reported Deaths

SAAB 9-3 - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2011	4	33	View
2010	4	31	View
2009	3	46	View
2008	3	218	View
2007	3	182	View
2006	3	227	View
2005	3	114	View
2004	6	236	View
2003	5	323	View
2002	4	52	View
2001 (current)	4	74
2000	2	72	View
1999	3	80	View
1994	0	1	View

Other SAAB Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
900	44	552	View
99	31	0	View
9-5	30	662	View
9000	26	197	View
9-7X	16	237	View
9-2X	11	148	View
96	11	0	View
95	10	62	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2001 SAAB 9-3

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

EPA Fuel Economy, 2001 SAAB 9-3

Technical Service Bulletins, 2001 SAAB 9-3

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, SAAB 9-3

SAAB 9-3 - All Years Overview

SAAB 9-3 - Year by Year

Other SAAB Models