Edmunds dealer partner, Bayway Leasing, is now offering transparent lease deals via these forums. Click here to see the latest vehicles!
Options
Most popular vehicles
Popular New Cars
- New Acura MDX
- New Acura RDX
- New Audi Q5
- New BMW 3 Series
- New BMW X3
- New Buick Enclave
- New Cadillac Escalade
- New Chevrolet Equinox
- New Chrysler 300
- New Dodge Challenger
- New Ford Edge
- New Ford Escape
- New Ford Expedition
- New Ford Explorer
- New Ford F-150
- New Ford Focus
- New Ford Mustang
- New Honda Accord
- New Honda Civic
- New Honda CR-V
- New Honda Fit
- New Honda Odyssey
- New Honda Pilot
- New Hyundai Elantra
- New Hyundai Santa Fe
- New Hyundai Sonata
- New Hyundai Tucson
- New Jeep Compass
- New Jeep Grand Cherokee
- New Jeep Wrangler
- New Mazda 3
- New Mazda 6
- New Mazda CX-5
- New Nissan Altima
- New Nissan Maxima
- New Nissan Rogue
- New Porsche Cayenne
- New Ram 1500
- New Subaru Crosstrek
- New Subaru Forester
- New Subaru Impreza
- New Subaru Outback
- New Tesla Model S
- New Tesla Model X
- New Toyota 4Runner
- New Toyota Camry
- New Toyota Corolla
- New Toyota Highlander
- New Toyota Prius
- New Toyota RAV4
- New Toyota Sienna
- New Toyota Tacoma
- New Volkswagen Jetta
- New Volvo XC60
- New Volvo XC90
Popular Used Sedans
- Used BMW 5 Series
- Used Chevrolet Impala
- Used Chevrolet Malibu
- Used Chrysler 200
- Used Dodge Charger
- Used Ford Fusion
- Used Ford Taurus
- Used Honda Accord
- Used Honda Civic
- Used Hyundai Elantra
- Used Hyundai Sonata
- Used Tesla Model S
- Used Toyota Camry
- Used Toyota Corolla
- Used Volkswagen Jetta
Popular Used SUVs
- Used Acura MDX
- Used Acura RDX
- Used Ford Edge
- Used Ford Explorer
- Used Honda CR-V
- Used Honda Pilot
- Used Hyundai Santa Fe
- Used Jeep Compass
- Used Lincoln Navigator
- Used Mazda CX-5
- Used Nissan Rogue
- Used Subaru Crosstrek
- Used Subaru Forester
- Used Tesla Model X
- Used Volvo XC90
Popular Used Pickup Trucks
Popular Used Hatchbacks
Popular Used Minivans
Popular Used Coupes
Popular Used Wagons
Comments
I don't have much knowledge of SAABs - or any car for that matter - but I love the brand. And I know that their sales goals are like 4-5 times what they were in previous years, which translates to a very motivated sales/repair force. Or should. I think the Boulder dealer I go to is better than most - very accomodating, etc. Of course my salesman was once a small biz owner, so he understands service. When I e-mail him my 'issues' he printed out the list and marched it over to the service department. When I went in to service, we went through the list item by item - before and after the repair. He told me what they could do, what they couldn't find, and what next steps should be (ie - pling sound they could not duplicate - either drive around with a service rep till it happens or wait until it gets worse and bring it in). They assured me time and again everything is covered, and although it might be a hassle, they will fix it.
If you're not getting that kind of service, first look for another dealer, and then do some gentle arm twisting. Using the Internet, you're privvy to loads of info, and have access to lots of buyers. You could really be a pain if you wanted, because you know what GM expects of Saab and can use that to your advantage as a customer. Let them know that. And good luck...
and keep us posted on the upgrades available!
rsdr:
TSB = Technical Service Bulletin
A TSB is a notice to the dealers recognizing a defect that may exsist in a car and how to fix it. Honda is famous for these. That is how they avoid recalls (they fix the problem before it is widely known).
There is a known defect in the brake pads and I believe the fix is to replace them. Was talking to my local dealer and he said 9 cars had the pads replaced and the owners were very happy. No more loud quealing noise.
As for oil changes, I am not privy to the information in the '03 owners manual. All I know is that BMW has the same monitoring device and for a few of those that have followed it are having engine problems. It's your call. Remember, turbocharged cars run hotter than your average engine and the higher the heat the faster oil breaks down.
"Not as much torque as my A4"
Did you have a V6 A4 ? If you had a 1.8t, it shouldn't be as torque as any of the 9-3 (unless it is CVT vs auto).
I have a 2001 9-3. At first, I thought the brake was not good and I needed to press the gas pedal deep to make the car moved. Later, I found that I need to put my foot to the "right position" of the pedals. Now I am satisfied with the car.
I am totally confussed. Do you won the 9-3 or 95 or maybe one of each? Anyways, the driver side door is two part- part one is the really wierd buzzing noise coming from the door handle part 2 is the noise coming from the top of the door glass where it meets the moldong on the door. It sounds like the glass is rocking back and forth within the molding. Both are very annoying. While I am on a roll, if its the 93 that you own, have you opened your sun roof? If you have, and you are going above 40mph, you might think that you have a 747 just above you. The fix here is to hold down the flat in the front of the sun roof and hope that your hand doesn't get tired. Lastly, at 6' I am not that tall but after I put my driver seat where I am comfortable, you are luckiy to fit a piece of paper behind it. If they just put a knee cut out in the back seat that would have helped out.
Here is how I am addressing my concerns with my new 9-3. I went and drove a 9-5 Aero tonight. Night and day difference between the ride confort, cabin noise and general cabin asthetics. I have located two Aero program cars with approx 5K miles on them and my trade up to one of them if I can minmize the loss. So far initial conversations indicate that if all goes my way, $2500 + my car gets me the aero. Also, I found the aero with auto matic very fun to drive in sport mode.
While the 9-3 may look sharp and seem fun to drive, the aero is as fun to drive wuth much more refinement. Stay tuned.
Anyhow, I also want to point out some of the car's virtues. I love the brakes. In a panic stop the car amplifies the braking force and it stops, almost literally, on a dime. The 9-3 takes the curves with amazing composure. Much to my wife's chagrin, I'm able to take 10 m.p.h offramps at 40+ m.p.h. The only limiting factor is that I find myself sliding out of the somewhat lacking in bolstering seats. The car delivers smooth and almost effortless acceleration over a wide range of speeds. This is most noticeable at higher speeds where the extra power is surprisingly welcome when passing on the highway. The attention to detail also makes me glad to have bought the 9-3. For instance, a few days ago I lowered one of the rear seatbacks to take a pair of skis home (the ski hatch in the middle was blocked by a car seat). When I started the car, a warning message came up on the info center alerting me to the fact that the seatback was open. Who would have thought that Saab would bother to plan for something like that?
I still have to take the car in to the dealer to get my complaints fixed. It's just hard to find the time. Does anyone know how long it takes for software upgrades and to fix the door buzzing? Should I expect the dealer to give me a loaner car?
I do agree with vector6 that there has been to much bashing for this car on this discussion group , problems etc should have different thread.
And oil change I think I will do it, I like the engine to much to degenerate into nothing, hopefully 6000 miles have not been too much.
Sloanesq :- In my case for first 1000 miles the gas mileage increased very slowly from 15 m/g to finally 27 to 30 , so maybe DTE is not wrong check what gas mileage does it say on the SID it calculates DTE according to that value. And as you drive it more even the engine power increases atleast that is what I felt.
Thank you all, for the quick responses. Just the other day I recieved a nice coffe table book from SAAB "made in trolhattan".
I had a 94 900SE. Liked it so much that a couple years ago we got a 9-5 for my wife - NOT the Aero, so it's not nearly as quick as the 9-3, but is still a wonderful car. It has more of a 'family' feel to it (that's the car with our baby seat installed in it), but it also has nice lines and great performance. A note - on long drives it's hands down the best thing I've ever driven...altho after a road trip in the new 9-3 I may change my mind. We may get the wagon down the road for more space, although I'm hoping Saab will build the crossover wagon or even a small suv in the near future...
Anyway. I got rid of the old 900SE because (I had bought it used) it was basically 10 yrs old and my accountant informed me just how much a break I could get with a new car. I got the Vector about 6-7 weeks ago now. I did have a loaner Aero for about a week (my car took longer to come in than expected and they coughed up the car). At first I thought it was sluggish - until I found the auto tranny's gas pedal sweet spot. Guess you already located it. It moves. And even in my wife's smaller engine 9-5, the sport mode really does haul when you hit the gas. Be careful with it - I have more than once 'over accelerated.'
Hmm...Both parts of your door? Ok, that is annoying. Mine was not up by the window. It could be climate change - ie summer to winter. The components (esp. plastic) will swell or contract and can 'squeak' for a period before settling. Especially parts that touch - or almost touch. Or it could just be a crappy fit. Anyway, I'm sure they could address that the same way they did the door - with foam tape inside the panel. Very low tech, but it works.
Haven't noticed any more noise with the sunroof than with any others...I actually like the side panels that pop up and feel they cut down on noise (when you 'tilt' instead of flat-out open).
I wondered about R34's question too - the 9-3 is much quicker than the A4. you must've had a big engine. A good friend with an 03 A4 now wants to sell it and get the 9-3 after going for a ride. She says when she heads into the mtns her car can't get out of its own way - and it's a stick.
Regardless, seems you've made up your mind. Sorry to see you leave your 9-3...but think you'll love the Aero.
Sloanesq - the DTE will vary depending on where you are. I do a fair amount of freeway driving, and will get a very ambitious figure - like 450 miles to empty. Then I'll slip to city driving and the number will plummet. I don't know how frequently it recalibrates, but it's a 'current' average...I think. If it's not under the circumstances described here, have the dealer fix that when they do your doors. Like I've posted before, my doors took overnight. I made an appointment, and asked for a loaner. They may not volunteer one, but they'll give it you. It might not be a Saab tho - I had a Rodeo that was hell to drive...couldn't wait to get my car back. As for upgrades, I need to call my dealer, but I've heard they're almost instantaneuous. No one needs to code your car - it's like transferring data from a Palm to a computer. Even so, i bet you'll be there at least an hour. Enjoy the stale coffee!
My test drive of the aero/auto last night was very revealing. The auto in sport mode was very responsive. The overall ride experience felt like a dramatic inprovement over the 9-3. The aero rides like a car that is heavier and has a longer wheel base. Also, granted there is more aluminum on the dash, I didn't have that blaring green display staring at me. Driver seat was probably the most comfortable I have ever sat in. What bothers me the most about the 9-3 is that where I have the driver seat positioned, nobody can fit behind the driver. A slight cut out in the back of the seat would have gone along way.
Regarding your friend that has the Audi, she must have a older 1.8T with a auto tranny (non sport mode) because with the A4 I owned, (3.0L/6 speed/quatro) the only thing you would be looking at with the 9-3 is my rear bumper, and there is no whinning engine noise wit hthe 3.0 liter. If she does have the 3.0 liter, there is a big problem with her engine.
I am going to drive the Aero 5 speed tomorrow just to see if I like the stick in a bigger heavier car. But, I could easily go with the steptronic and be very happy with the bonus of lots of room in the back seat. I also have to believe that even with approx 500 more pounds, 40 more HP will move an Aero as fast if not faster than the 9-3. If I can get the Aero program car with 5K miles for $2500 including trade, I will be driving home in a Aero.
Jay
Had to send a file for work and figured I'd check in here...
Yikes. You must be really unhappy with your car! The "glaring green dash" is one of my favorite touches. Anyway... my friend has the new A4 1.8T, which goes 0-60 in 8.7 seconds. The A4 3.0 quattro does it in 7.19 - a tick SLOWER than the Vector/Arc, which logs 6.9 (Modern Racer). But seriously, those seonds make a lot less difference than the push from 30 - 70 on the freeway, which is where I think the 9-3 is a big improvement over previous SAABs. You'll be pleased to know that with a manual, the Aero will trump them all at 6.6. It is a significantly bigger car and it sounds like it'll be a better fit for you. I prefer a small car (wanted a coupe but none is available). Still, sad you had such a negative experience.
good luck.
I haven't been on the post for awhile, so I just now saw your post about the "Pling" sound. I also noticed this just a short time after taking delivery of my '03 Arc (6-spd) back in April. It happens each time I depress the clutch; it's more of a feeling than an actual sound...like a spring snapping. I called the dealer right away, and he told me they would check it out at my 30-day service. When I brought it in, they tried to convince me it was normal. They even had me try the clutch of another car on the lot, and sure enough, it did the same thing. So it was hard to argue the point. The service manager tried to tell me it was part of the "quirkiness" of the car.
I also told them about the rough shifting (especially in 2nd and 3rd). Again, they said that was "normal". To tell you the truth, I absolutely love the car, but I'm less than satisfied with the service. Next week, I have an appointment to have my OnStar unit replaced.
exactly, or a Toyota...but then that wouldn't be any fun!
Anyone know what the current incentives are? I thought I saw something that suggested an 'invisible' 5000 dollar incentive across the board, but who knows. That I have seen new 9-3 advert. for close to 21 grand would confirm that as a viable figure.
Is GM smartbuy available on Saab?
Drove the Aero 5 speed yesterday (drove the auto on Friday). Here is what I found-
Both have a ride that is 100% better than the 9-3 with the same 17" hp tires. With my vector, I feel every little bump magnified x10. Handling-the Vector felt a bit more nimble cornering, maybe it's the weight difference. Acceleration- hands down, the Aero with either transmission is better. Low end T lag is much more pronounced when you get back into the Vector (mine is a 6 speed) after driving the Aero.
Here is what I am having a hard time deciding, I think I like driving the Vector with a stick, the size and weight of the car are perfect for the 6 speed. While the 5 speed in the Aero was fun to drive, being quite a bit bigger, it doesn't seem to be as fun to drive with the stick as the Vector. Also, with the auto in sport mode, the Aero really moves well. High tech display award definitly goes to the 9-3. But, as I have stated in other posts, I don't like the fact that I have to push and turn a knob several times to switch from am to fm. Also, most of the gimics in the i system are ones that I won't ever bother with. Tomorrow is decision day.
Aero auto tranny owners, please weigh in. Have you had any problems with the tranny or the car in general? I have read some posts about the tranny doing some wierd down shifting on hills.
Any complaints?
Thanks for any input.
JD
Thanx all for responding to my D.T.E. complaint but it's definitely a computer glitch. After I fill up the tank, the readout says I have about 100 miles to empty but the mileage per gallon is still around 24 m.p.g. I know the tank holds more than four gallons. Maybe it's calculating in liters or something...
Needashave, you mentioned you had to reset the DTE computer. Can you post some more info, it might be connected to my problem.
I was going to respond to Jaydoll's post about the radio but Nok beat me to it. The radio system looks really complicated but when you get to know it, it's actually pretty easy to use.
This is my first post in this forum but I've been reading it since March 03.
The information I found here helped me to make the decision on purchase of 9-3Arc in April. Also, I saved a lot of green, thanks to hint on GM supplier program.
Thanks all of you, folks.
I read a lot of times that you need to push and turn a knob several times to switch from am to FM.
You do not have to do that.
When you are in FM mode just press the RADIO button and you will switch it to FM2. Push it again and you will go to AM. Push one more time and you'll get FM1. That way you have quick access to 24 FM and12 AM presets from your steering wheel.
Again today I drove both the both the 5 speed and the auto. I preferred the auto in sport mode over the 5 speed. They did a nice job with the sport mode program. Also, no whinning engine noise, and the aero seems to be fast as hell in sport mode. Of less concern but very noticeable, the sound system in the Vector was worse than my am radio that runs on a nine volt. The system in the Aero kicks compared to the Vectors.
Here is how the deal washed out, I gave them the Vector and $2500 with very low miles and got a Aero/touring package in Steel grey (stickered at $43300) with 7 K miles.
My pling isn't with the clutch - it's definitely something under the aluminum panel under the gearshift. It's sporadic, but when I do a 5k oil change I'll take the technicians for a ride to hear it. I'm sure it'll be a simple fix.
Jaydoll - doog luck with the Aero. Since you got a great deal on the Vector I think you did ok...our 9-5 is not an Aero, but stickered at 37 and we got it for under 30 two years ago - serious incentives were in place. Definitely a bigger car with a longer wheelbase. Much more the family car. I disagree wholeheartedly about the stereo performance, but I think you worked yourself up into such a frenzy about the 9-3 before even picking it up you were just looking for an excuse the bag the car. Only downside with the 9-5 is it's due for a big redesign shortly...
9-3 Vector 0-60
Manual 7.0
Automatic 8.1
9-5 Aero 0-60
Manual 6.3 (?)
Automatic 7.0
If you don't mind me being nosy, drop me an e-mail with how much you paid after incentives. I'm interested only because I am considering leaving SAAB. The 9-5 would be the only car that would keep me from leaving.
vector6- SAAB is redesigning the 9-5, but if it follows in the footsteps of the 9-3 it might be a good idea to wait for 3 years to buy. I would be interested to find out if SAAB has redesigned the '04s to fix the bugs.
on this website;did you receive a document organizer when you took delivery of your new car?
If so,in it you will find an owners manual for
both the audio system and the car itself.You
should consider spending some time reading both of them!
Thanks.
Overall, I was very impressed with the fact that Saab is conscientious enough to actually warn its potential customers about the downside of high performance tires.
You can use them but the traction will be almost non-exsistent. I don't recommend it.
>Will they handle OK in the snow/ice or on the cold ground or am I going to be all over the road?
The Rosso's have no traction rating for winter use.
>Will they just wear out faster if I use them in those conditions?
Possibly since there you will be breaking traction. You will find the traction and stability control working quite a bit attempting to restore control.
A set of winter tires would be preferable, but you can also trade the tires off for a different set. Pirelli PZero Nero M&S, Continental ContiExtremeContact and Michelin Pilot Sport A/S are just to name a few some good Ultra High Performance All-Season Tires. Cost wise you are looking (per tire) $125 (Neros), $108 (Contis) and $196 (Pilots). I have heard excellent things about all three tires and currently have the ContiExtremes on my Saab. You will sacrifice some performance and quiet ride...BUT, you will have all season capability.
Check with a Pirelli dealer to see if they will do the exchange and how much they would give you for the Rossos.
Where do you live in the North?
Thanks for the info on the different brands of all-season tires. I know that I will have to replace the tires before the lease is up anyway so I'd be spending the money somewhere along the way. Now the only question is-should I keep two sets and swap them out every season or just trade in the tires the car comes with and keep the others on all the time?
Oh, and GBrianK, I live just outside of Philadelphia.
i own a 1999 saab 93. for the most part i like it a lot.
BUT....
i let my dad drive it today and i told him that the only way to remove the key is to put it into reverse.
well, he got home and put it into what he must have thought was reverse and he couldnt remove the key. so i went out to check it out and it looks like it is in 4th, but i have to keep the parking brake on or it will roll - even with the clutch out. worse, is that i can remove the key and reinsert it, but i can not turn the ignition or move the gear shift from what looks like 4th gear. if that werent enough, the car is parked in front of the garage door where my mothers car is parked and she cant get it out. HELP!!!!!!!! if anyone has experienced this and has the secret to starting the car, i would be much obliged.
please email me at: backcountryjournal@hotmail.com to be sure i get it.
thanks in advance!!!!
mike
I am somewhat interested in a 2004 9-3 Arc(primarily because of eligibility for GM employee discount), but am leery of spending the kind of money Saab wants for a car with a predisposition toward these kinds of problems. Passing along any knowledge of attempts by Saab to improve the 2004s would be appreciated.
I am not sure why the feeling is there that the car will be going - the Saab 9-3 is a very durable car, and there are plenty of them driving around very well indeed with well over 200k miles on the odometer. It's one of the reasons I bought a "GM 9-3" Saab (no leasing for me).
While the dealership has my car they gave me a 04 Arc as a loaner. My car is a 6 speed stick but was impressed with the steptronic tranny of the 04.
The doors didn't rattle at all but the side-pillars (where the seat belt comes out) still buzz with the audio pumped up.
The read seats are also a but lose but it is a quick fix at the dealers and most of the noises go away.
Hope that helps you 04 buyers.
BC
This car is a blast to drive. I'm having the Pirelli Rosso tires taken off this week to replace them with an all season tire. The Pennsylvania winters aren't very conducive to safe driving with summer high performance tires. So, I'm just going to sell the Pirellis and hope I come out even at the end.
Have I mentioned how much I love this car? My opinion on the noises is as follows: All cars have their problems. Think of the number of Saabs sold versus the number of people who post here. These forums are great ways to see if anyone else is experiencing your particular problem. That doesn't necessarily mean all cars have that problem. I will take a buzzing door or a slight rattle over a major mechanical or engine issue any day!