2004 SAAB 9-3

6 recalls, 236 complaints - 105 TSBs

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

Defect Description

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2011 Saab 9-3 Convertible vehicles manufactured July 30, 2003, to February 15, 2011. In the affected vehicles, the driver's side front seat belt retractor may break, causing the seat belt webbing not to retract.

Consequence

In the event of a crash, a seat belt that has not retracted may not properly restrain the seat occupant, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's seat belt retractor, free of charge. The recall began on October 6, 2015. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007. GM's number for this recall is 14222. Note: Special Coverage 10086 will replace the passenger side se... Read more

28,789 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Defect Description

TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.

Consequence

A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.

Remedy

TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.

4,887 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

Defect Description

GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 SAAB 9-3 SEDANS. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH FRONT SEAT BELT RETRACTORS THAT, OVER TIME, COULD FAIL TO RETRACT.

Consequence

USING A SEAT BELT THAT HAS NOT RETRACTED, AND IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, A SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER SIDE RETRACTOR FREE OF CHARGE. IF THE FRONT PASSENGER RETRACTOR WERE TO FAIL TO RETRACT, GM WILL REPLACE THE FRONT PASSENGER RETRACTOR FREE OF CHARGE UNDER A SPECIAL COVERAGE THAT WILL BE RELEASED FOR THE SAME POPULATION FOR 10 YEARS FROM NEW VEHICLE DATE OF SALE. TH... Read more

14,126 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Defect Description

CERTAIN SPORT SEDAN AND CONVERTIBLE PASSENGER VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH A VACUUM PIPE CHECK VALVE FOR THE BRAKE BOOSTER THAT MAY FAIL FROM EXPOSURE TO ELEVATED TEMPERATURES. THIS COULD RESULT IN SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER BRAKE ASSIST, USUALLY WITH LITTLE OR NO WARNING.

Consequence

IF THIS CONDITION WERE TO OCCUR WHEN MINIMUM STOPPING DISTANCE IS REQUIRED, A CRASH COULD OCCUR.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW REDESIGNED CHECK VALVE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 17, 2006. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.

68,654 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

Defect Description

SOME SPORT SEDANS WERE BUILT WITH SEAT BELT RETRACTORS THAT WERE DAMAGED DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS. IF DAMAGED, OVER TIME, THE AUTOMATIC TENSIONING SYSTEM (ATS) CABLE IN THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR COULD BREAK CAUSING THE BELT WEBBING TO NOT RETRACT.

Consequence

IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, A FRONT SEAT OCCUPANT MAY RECEIVE MORE SEVERE INJURIES.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR ASSEMBLIES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 24, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.

31,335 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER

Defect Description

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 207, "SEATING SYSTEMS." THE BACKREST LOCKING MECHANISM ON SOME FRONT SEATS MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED INCORRECTLY.

Consequence

THIS COULD CAUSE THE SEAT BACK TO FOLD FORWARD IN A FRONTAL CRASH, RESULTING IN INJURY TO THE DRIVER AND/OR FRONT SEAT PASSENGER.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLE'S FRONT SEATS TO DETERMINE IF THEY ARE EQUIPPED WITH THE IMPROPERLY INSTALLED COMPONENT. IF EITHER OR BOTH OF THE SEATS HAVE THIS COMPONENT, THEY WILL BE REPLACED. THE DEALER MAY NEED TO ORDER A COMPLETE NEW SEAT OR SEATS (INCLUDING MATCHING UPHOLSTERY) AND THE PAR... Read more

1,658 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.

Complaint Statistics

236 total complaints 11 crashes 2 fires 9 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
SEAT BELTS	66
SUSPENSION:FRONT	29
SUSPENSION	18
AIR BAGS	16
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	11
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR	11
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS	10
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	5
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE	5
TIRES	4

Incident date: May 10, 2024

This was not a incident, I just want to report that for months now I have problems with the ignition it won't crank right away. I have got the ignition switch replaced and it is still doing it , it is a little better but not perfect. I know their are a lot of complains about this, Please submit a r... Read more

Incident date: Jun 4, 2022

Constant random recurrence of error codes P2122 and P2138 (either together or on their own) which results in the car switching to low power mode, with very low acceleration which makes it very dangerous to merge into traffic, pull out of stops, red lights, etc. Technically supposed to require changi... Read more

Incident date: Mar 29, 2021

******* DELETE VOQ ******* THIS COMPLAINT IS BEING MARKED FOR DELETION BECAUSE THE CONSUMER PLACED THE REQUEST*DJR ******* DELETE VOQ *******

Incident date: Apr 14, 2020

CALLED DEVOE AUTOMOTIVE IN NAPLES TO HAVE RECALLED SEATBELT FIXED, IT JUST FAILED TO RETRACT. I SENT A PICTURE OF THE VIN. AND WAS TOLD THEY COULD NOT FIND IT AND COULD NOT HELP US WITH OUT A LETTER WITH OUR VIN ON IT SAYING THE BROKEN SEATBELT WAS RECALLED, JUST BECAUSE IT WILL NOT RETRACT THA... Read more

Incident date: Jun 13, 2016

I RECIEVED A LETTER RECALL 15027 DATED DECEMBER 2018. I HAD TO HAVE MY SEATBELT REPAIRED IN JUNE 2016. THE COST OF THE REPAIR WAS $401 AND WAS REPAIRED BY BICKLERS REPAIR. I AM REQUESTING REEMBURSEMENT FOR THE REPAIR IN 2016. IT IS STILL NOT FUNCTIONING CORRECTLY SO I CURRENTLY HAVE IT IN FOR REPAIR... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2018

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RETRACT WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AUTONATION CHEVROLET WEST AMARILLO (7300 I-40 FRONTAGE RD, WEST AMARILLO, TX 79106, 806-553-5673) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE REPAIRS WERE NOT INCLUDED ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 15, 2017

TAKATA RECALL - GM DEALERS ADVISE MY CAR NOT AFFECTED BUT ON RECALL WEBSITES MY 2004 SAAB 9-3 AERO IS SHOWN TO HAVE A TAKATA AIR BAG.

Incident date: Jan 12, 2018

AIR BAG MALFUNCTION LIGHT

Incident date: Oct 27, 2017

I HAVE A RECALL ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEATBELT. IT WAS BROKEN AND IS UNSPOOLED.

Incident date: Oct 24, 2016

FRONT DRIVER SEAT BELT RETRACTOR HAS FAILED WHEN I WENT TO FASTEN MY SEAT BELT.

Incident date: Aug 7, 2016

WHILE DRIVING, WITHOUT ANY WARNING THE CAR ENGINE STALLS. NO WARNING AT ALL!! ONCE IT STOPS, IGNITION KEY WON'T WORK. THE ONLY WAY TO RESTART THE CAR IS TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY. THIS IS ALL DONE IN THE EMERGENCY SHOULDERS, BREAKDOWN LANES, ITS ALSO HAPPENED ON THE HIGHWAY EXIT RAMPS. LUCKILY E... Read more

Incident date: Aug 7, 2016

Incident date: Jul 13, 2016

TAKATA RECALL? MY CAR KEEPS GIVING ME THE FOLLOWING ALERT: AIRBAG MALFUNCTION. HOW CAN I VERIFY IT IS PART OF THE RECALL?

Incident date: Jul 13, 2016

TAKATA RECALL? MY CAR KEEPS GIVING ME THE FOLLOWING ALERT: AIRBAG MALFUNCTION. HOW CAN I VERIFY IT IS PART OF THE RECALL?

Incident date: Jul 13, 2016

TAKATA RECALL? MY CAR KEEPS GIVING ME THE FOLLOWING ALERT: AIRBAG MALFUNCTION. HOW CAN I VERIFY IT IS PART OF THE RECALL?

Incident date: Feb 13, 2016

SAAB RECALL. I RECEIVED BOTH SEAT BELT RETRACTOR AND AIRBAG INFLATE DEFECT SAFETY RECALL NOTICE. HOWEVER, IN MY CAR THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR MALFUNCTION IS IN THE DRIVER SIDE. I HAVE CALLED THE SAAB OFFICIAL SERVICE CENTER AND THE DEALER FOR BOTH PROBLEMS SEVERAL DAYS UP TODAY AND I HAVE NOT HAD AN ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 13, 2016

Incident date: Mar 23, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE CONTACT HAD ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 1, 2016

2004 SAAB 9-3. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DRIVER AIRBAG INFLATOR RECALL NOTICE. *SMD

Incident date: Mar 31, 2016

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART FOR THE RECALL WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFA... Read more

Incident date: Mar 4, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PARTS NEEDED WERE UNAVAILABLE TO PERFORM THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 11, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS) IN MARCH OF 2016. THE CONTACT CALLED SAAB TO DETERMINE WHEN THE PARTS WOULD BE AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THAT THE NOTIFICATION WAS SENT BY MISTAKE AND THE VIN WAS... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2016

TAKATA RECALL: I CONTACTED MY DEALER AS INSTRUCTED AND WAS INFORMED THAT THERE ARE NO PARTS AND NO INFORMATION AS TO WHEN THE PARTS WILL BE AVAILABLE. I ASKED THEM TO DISCONNECT MY SEEMINGLY MURDEROUS AIRBAG AND THEY SAID IT WAS ILLEGAL. WHY IS IT NOT ILLEGAL TO HAVE TO WAIT FOR AN INDEFINITE PERIOD... Read more

Incident date: Feb 3, 2016

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACT... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2016

TAKATA INFLATORS: I RECENTLY RECEIVED MY SAFETY RECALL NOTICE FOR THE DRIVER AIRBAG DEFECT IN MY 2004 SAAB 9-3. I UNDERSTAND THE CIRCUMSTANCES AND THAT THE REPAIR PARTS FOR THIS DEFECT ARE CURRENTLY NOT AVAILABLE. I ALSO UNDERSTAND THE SEVERE IMPLICATIONS TO THIS DEFECT IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT. ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 15, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT SPRINGS AND FRONT STRUTS FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRACTURE HAPPENED TWICE, ONCE ON EACH SIDE. A MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE SPRINGS PREMATURELY FRACTURED AND THE FRONT STRUTS AND SPRINTS NEEDED TO BE R... Read more

Incident date: Dec 11, 2015

I HAVE A 9-3 SAAB EVERYTIME I STOP AND TURN CAR OFF WHEN I GET BACK IN A PUT KEY IN I GET A STEERING WHEEL LOCK CONTACT SAAB DEALER IT WON'T EVEN LET ME TURN THE KEY I HAVE THE CAR FOR ABOUT YEARS AND NOW IT'S DOING THIS I HAVE TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY AND RECONNECT FOR THE COMPUTER RESET AND RESTA... Read more

Incident date: Dec 11, 2015

Incident date: Dec 4, 2015

SEATBELT RETRACTOR ON DRIVER'S SIDE COMPLETELY UNSPOOLED AND WILL NOT RETRACT UNDER NORMAL USE EFFECTING DRIVER'S SAFETY IN EVENT OF A CRASH. WHILE CONVERTIBLE AND PASSEGER SIDE RETRACTORS SEEM TO BE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY WE ARE TOLD OUR CAR IS NOT COVERED AND IT IS $550 TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM. THIS... Read more

Incident date: Oct 7, 2014

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE AT A STOP SIGN, THERE WAS A ODOR OF BURNING OIL INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VALVE COVER GASKET WAS LEAKING. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECU... Read more

Incident date: Jan 6, 2015

LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS ARE SO DIM THAT THE VEHICLE CAN NOT BE SAFELY DRIVEN AT NIGHT. HIGH BEAM WORK GREAT.

Incident date: Aug 11, 2015

APPROXIMATELY 5 MINUTES AFTER STARTING, THE CAR STALLED ON A BUSY, 6 LANE ROAD. THE ENGINE WAS NOT ABLE TO START AGAIN, OR EVEN ATTEMPT TO IGNITE. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON. THE CAR SPENT 2 DAYS IN THE MECHANIC, WHO WAS ABLE TO SOURCE A P1605 ERROR CODE. HOWEVER, HE TOLD US ONLY A LICENSED SAAB ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 15, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-3. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR BECAME INOPERABLE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT TH... Read more

Incident date: Jul 25, 2015

TIRE HAS BULGE IN SIDEWALL. OWNER NOTICED IT AND WAS ABLE TO PREVENT A BLOW OUT. THIS IS NOT AN IMPACT RELATED DAMAGE.

Incident date: Jun 18, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 SAAB 9-3. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE STEERING COLUMN JAMMED AND RESULTED IN A CRASH. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED AWAY. THE DRIVER WAS INJURED AND REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FIELD. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. T... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Jun 19, 2015

THIS IS A SERIOUS ISSUE KNOWN TO NHTSA AND GM UNDER PE 08051. IT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED AND A RECALL ISSUED. BACKING OUT OF GARAGE I HEARD A POP FROM RIGHT FRONT AREA OF CAR WHEN PUT IN REVERSE. DROVE ABOUT 200 FEET BEFORE I SMELLED BURNING RUBBER. CAR BECAME VERY DIFFICULT TO STEER. I HAD CAR TO... Read more

Incident date: Jun 19, 2015

Incident date: May 30, 2015

I DO HAVE A 2004 SAAB 9-3 ARC CONVERTIBLE. THERE IS A SEAT BELT RECALL. I BROUGHT THE CAR TO MY GMC TUSTIN DEALER 3 WEEKS AGO. HOWEVER, THEY CANNOT FIX THE PROBLEM BECAUSE THE PART IS NOT AVAILABLE. SINCE IT IS A SEAT BELT ISSUE, I DO NOT LIKE TO DRIVE THE CAR BECAUSE OF SAFETY ISSUE. BY LAW, HOW F... Read more

Incident date: Aug 15, 2014

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT FAILED AND WOULD NOT RETRACT. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO REPORT THE FAILURE TO THE MANUFACTURER TO BE REFERRED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER BUT WAS UNABLE TO GET THROUGH TO SCHEDULE A RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT WAS UNAB... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2014

GM SENT ME A RECALL NOTICE DATED 08/2014 REGARDING FAULTY SEAT BELTS IN 2004 SAAB CONVERTIBLES. GM SAFETY RECALL #14222/ SAAB SAFETY RECALL #15027. IT HAS BEEN 8 MONTHS AND NO FURTHER WORD FROM GM ABOUT THE REPAIR. I BELIEVE I MAY BE DRIVING AN UNSAFE VEHICLE. ANY UPDATES THANKS, [XXX] INF... Read more

Incident date: Nov 25, 2013

PASSENGERS SIDE SEAT BELT DOESN'T WORK. THERE WAS A RECALL BY NHTSA HOWEVER I HAVE NEVER BEEN CONTACTED REGARDING GETTING THE SEAT BELT FIXED. THIS IS A VERY BIG SAFETY ISSUE. I CANNOT HAVE ANYBODY DRIVE WITH ME. *TR

Incident date: Feb 12, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-3. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR SEIZED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 162,000.

Incident date: Nov 11, 2013

DRIVERS SIDE SEAT BELT FAILED ON A NON ACCIDENT RELATED INCIDENT. WAS REPAIRED APPROXIMATELY 2-3 YEARS AGO, HOWEVER THE PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT HAS SINCED FAILED. I TRIED TO GET THIS FIXED VIA THE DEALER SHIP, HOWEVER THE DEALERSHIP WAS ADAMANT ABOUT NOT PAYING FOR THE REPAIR. AS I POINTED OUT T... Read more

Incident date: Aug 19, 2014

I JUST CALLED THE GM SAAB CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER TO ASK ABOUT THE RECENT DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT SEAT BELT RECALL. I HAD PAID FOR THAT LAST YEAR AN AM REQUESTING TO BE REIMBURSED BUT WAS TOLD I WILL HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL THE NEXT NOTICE COMES OUT SAYING THAT THEY ACTUALLY HAVE THE PARTS. IN THE NOT... Read more

Incident date: Aug 14, 2014

DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR FAILED. HAVE INVESTIGATED RECALLS AND FOUND THAT THREE PREVIOUS RECALLS DO NOT COVER THIS VIN NUMBER. HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO FIND A REPLACEMENT PART; HAVE CONTACTED A DEALERSHIP 2+ HOURS AWAY THAT WILL REPLACE THE ENTIRE SEAT AT A COST OF $650. THIS SEEMS TO BE THE ... Read more

Incident date: Sep 3, 2012

THE AUTOMATIC TENSIONING SYSTEM CABLE IN THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT SEAT BELT RETRACTORS BROKE. THIS CAUSED THE SAT BELT WEBBING TO BE SPOOLED OUT AND NOT RETRACT. *TR WE TOOK THE CAR TO A SAAB DEALER AND AFTER SEVERAL WEEKS THEY SAID THEY HAD NO IDEA WHEN THEY WOULD HAVE THE PARTS TOOK THE CAR T... Read more

Incident date: Jul 6, 2014

SAAB AERO 9-3 WITH ONLY 73K DRIVER SEAT BELT WORKED FINE ON SATURDAY THE NEXT DAY I NOTICED IT WAS NOT RETRACTED SO PULLED ON IT AND IT UNRAVELED IN MY LAP. CALL GM MONDAY AFTER RESEARCHING RECALLS ONLINE. MY VIN IS NOT COVERED?... IF IT IS A KNOWN PROBLEM AND THE BUYER EXPERIENCES THE ISSUE -WOU... Read more

Incident date: Jun 2, 2014

I TOOK MY VEHICLE IN FOR A BLOWER MOTOR MALFUNCTION AND A BRAKE JOB TO MY REGULAR MECHANIC WHO WORKS ON ALL MY VEHICLES. WHILE THEY HAD THE VEHICLE UP ON THE LIFT, HE NOTICED THAT THE RIGHT FRONT SPRING HAD BROKEN AND GOUGED THE TIRE LEAVING THE TIRE DAMAGED AND THE CAR INOPERABLE. WHEN THEY CAL... Read more

Incident date: Jun 2, 2014

UPON COMING TO A STOP AT A STOP SIGN THE FRONT DRIVERS SIDE SEATBELT CAME UNRAVELLED FROM THE SEAT BACK AND WILL NOT RETRACT. I LOOKED UP THE VEHICLE FOR RECALLS AND FOUND THEIR IS A VIN SPECIFIC RECALL ON THIS MAKE/MODEL/YEAR BUT MY VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE VIN SPECIFIC. MY CONCERN IS THAT T... Read more

Incident date: May 30, 2014

DRIVER'S SEAT BELT WILL NOT RETRACT. AFTER GOOGLING I READ THAT THERE ARE 2 RECALLS ON THE SAAB 9-3 2004 DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT RETRACTORS NOT WORKING. TODAY I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER CURRENTLY SERVICING SAAB'S (JIM ELLIS MAZDA) THAT THIS VIN IS NOT INCLUDED. IF THAT IS TRUE, THE RECALL NEEDS TO BE E... Read more

Showing 50 of 236 complaints.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2004 SAAB 9-3

105 manufacturer communications from 66 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	14
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	11
200000 WHEELS	8
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	8
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	5
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	5
350000 EQUIPMENT	5
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL	5

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.

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.

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

100000 POWER TRAIN

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

010000 STEERING

This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.

020000 SUSPENSION

This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.

100000 POWER TRAIN

This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.

200000 WHEELS

This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.

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 diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.

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.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.

190000 TIRES

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed fo

200000 WHEELS

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 information on OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification.

100000 POWER TRAIN

This service bulletin provides information on OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification.

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.

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

This service bulletin provides policy information on warranty administration guidelines for multiple repairs with independent causes (GM Canada Dealers Only).

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

This service bulletin provides policy information on warranty administration guidelines for multiple repairs with independent causes (GM Canada Dealers 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.

190000 TIRES

200000 WHEELS

190000 TIRES

200000 WHEELS

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

IPC Odometer Programming Method Quick Reference Guide

117110 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:INSTRUMENT PANEL:SPEEDOMETER/ODOMETER:SENSOR/SENDING UNIT

IPC Odometer Programming Method Quick Reference Guide

021300 SUSPENSION:FRONT:SHOCK ABSORBER

Information Regarding the Differences Between Fluid Leakage and Seepage This bulletin is intended to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak and what is considered seepage. Improper diagnosis may lead to un

021400 SUSPENSION:FRONT:MACPHERSON STRUT

022400 SUSPENSION:REAR:SHOCK ABSORBER

350000 EQUIPMENT

Essential Tools that Include Consumable Parts (U.S. Only)

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Essential Tools that Include Consumable Parts (U.S. Only)

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.

061200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL

THIS INFORMATIONAL BULLETIN EXPLAINS THE USE OF DIESEL FUEL ADDITIVES IN AN ENGINE, ARE NOT REQUIRED UNLESS THE CUSTOMER DESIRES ADDITIVES TO PREVENT FUEL CONCERNS DEPENDING ON FUEL OR TEMPERATURE RELATED CONDITIONS.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

THIS PRELIMINARY INFORMATION COMMUNICATION ADVISES THE TECHNICIAN THAT ,WHEN TESTING ANY CIRCUIT FOR OPEN OR RESISTANCE, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT ALL RELATED TERMINAL PIN FIT AND TENSION BE CHECKED WHEN THE TEST STEPS REQUIRE DISCONNECTION OF

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)

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

THIS PRELIMINARY INFORMATION COMMUNICATION ADVISES THE TECHNICIAN ON THE STEPS TO DIAGNOSE AND REPAIR THE CONCERN. THE VEHICLE'S XM RADIO ONLY HAS XM PREVEIW CHANNELS.

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

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

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

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.

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)

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

100000 POWER TRAIN

OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

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

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

XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.

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.

200000 WHEELS

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

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

200000 WHEELS

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

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.

181000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL

SAAB: ACCELERATOR PEDAL POSITION SENSOR DTCS SET IN ECM 2003-2009 SAAB. APP SENSOR DTC'S OF P2122-00, P2123-00, P2126-00, P2127-00, P2128-00, AND/OR P2138-00 IN THE ECM. THESE DTC'S MAY BE VERY INTERMITTENT AND ARE DIFFICULT TO REPRODUCE

021210 SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS

SAAB SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, PARTICLES OF GRAVEL OR STONES MAY COLLECT BETWEEN THE COIL SPRING AND THE LOWER SPRING SEAT CAUSING THE SPRING TO CORRODE. THIS CORROSION MAY WEAKEN

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

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

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

071110 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP

SPECIAL COVERAGE ADJUSTMENT-FUEL TANK CAP. *KB

162800 STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD

UPDATING THE HOOD SYSTEM. *TT

134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

UPDATING THE SOFTWARE FOR SUNROOF PINCH PROTECTION. *TT

151300 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

SEAT BELT RETRACTORS THAT MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED DURING THE SUPPLIER'S MANUFACTURING PROCESSING. RECALL CAMPAIGN 15017 FRONT SEAT BELT REPLACEMENT. *TT

150000 SEAT BELTS

REPLACEMENT OF FRONT SEAT BELT. *EH

220000 SEATS

THE BACK OF THE SEAT CANNOT BE FOLDED FORWARD. *EH

116100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

NO CENTRAL LOCKING SWITCH ON PASSENGER SIDE. *TT

010000 STEERING

NOISE WITH STEERING WHEEL TURNING. *TT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

CHANGE IN SPS PROGRAMMING. *EH

Showing 100 of 105 bulletins.

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 (current)	6	236
2003	5	323	View
2002	4	52	View
2001	4	74	View
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

2004 SAAB 9-3

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

Technical Service Bulletins, 2004 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