Saab 9-3 150k Mile Review - Is it a Good Used Car Buy?

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Outro song: • Star Party - Legends ...

[@aksmzk3829]

Bought mine brand new back in 2004. Still have it to this day and drives like new.

[@AutoAutopsy]

wow! very rare to see original owners these days

[@BigBeanz_]

Never drove it or somthing ?

[@krayzietj]

Miles?

[@aksmzk3829]

@@BigBeanz_ It was driven daily from 04-11 then sat in my garage from 11-20

[@aksmzk3829]

@@krayzietj 200km or 124 miles

[@racerboy2212]

Because of you, I’m seriously looking at adding a Saab to my collection.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Do it 👀

[@MassiveTrackHunter]

Once you get a good one sorted, you'll never want to go back. Total addiction. Just ask my wife, who shakes her head at me all the time, when I bring home another awesome stray. XD

[@liljazzysmusicappreciation3807]

I have a sweet 89 900 Turno Conv for sale on Saabnet

[@abdomination]

I'm looking for a good sedan in the future. I got an 04 9-3 vert.

[@MassiveTrackHunter]

@@abdomination Find an 08-09 Aero Sedan, 2wd. Best one I ever owned. Super reliable, lots of power stock, great handling and wickedly good looking for a sedan. Sold mine with 245k, no issues, running perfect. Avoid the 4's from those years unless they pass a compression test, or you can afford to have the head pulled and good valves put in them. Otherwise the facelifts are awesome. I did that to my 09 2.0T, which was still an awesome car. Try to keep the vert too. They are rare and awesome cars. I have had several. Good luck!

[@Michael-ft3vg]

The 4 cylinder engine's Saab used until their end was actually used all the way back in the 99. Talk about a reliable motor!

[@AutoAutopsy]

I think you've got the cars confused a bit! The 9-5 used the B235 motor from 98-09, but it wasn't in the lineup for the last couple of years of the company's existence! :)

[@finnackerson9114]

My family has a 2006 Saab 9-3 that has been an absolute tank. It has 181k miles on it. We put 23k miles on it in the past year, drove it on 3 1200 mile road trips and 100 plus miles a day sometimes- its always started up and ran like a top. The thing is so fun to drive and I fell in love with it, found excuses to drive it over new Fords and Mercedes-Benz's. Looking back at service records, its only needed a couple tune ups, a vacuum pump, a muffler, an oil pump and struts outside of regular maintenance over the last 17 years. All those repairs totaling under $2500. I bought another 2006 Saab 9-3 as my first car. It also runs like a top and its only needed $1700 in repairs outside of regular maintenance to get to 160k miles. I've been driving the wheels off of it too- I can't help it. It's so fun to drive! I wish they still made these cars today.

[@jaabnegat]

Swoim SAAB 9-3 z 2010 roku przejechałem już 370 000 km i... jeździ nadal DOSKONALE! Pozdrawiam

[@mcdonaldsfreewifi2100]

I go to a GM tech school and one of my instructors tell me that the 2.0 ecotec are great little engines. To be dead honest I view Saab’s as being more quality made than some generic GM American car (eg like a Chevy Cruze) also one of the safest cars that you can buy!

[@AutoAutopsy]

definitely! Safety is a huge bonus too

[@user-wx2mk6tn5r]

chevy cruze is alright

[@mattpfarr5992]

Watched your channel for about 4-5 months, and bought an 07 9-3 sportcombi anniversary 2 months ago. Love the car

[@AutoAutopsy]

Glad you enjoy it! and i'm happy i could influence you to get one, lol

[@branm25]

Ive owned a 2009 9-3 2.0T for a few months now and I absolutely love it! I used your channel as a final deciding factor in me getting it!

[@AutoAutopsy]

Great to hear! happy to have been of help to you

[@PhaedruS007]

I’m looking at a 2008. Any issues with the 07-09 intake valve issue?

[@erickbarrueta]

this is what im in the process of right now haha, everything is pointing in the right direction they seem like reliable cars

[@rickyloganjr.2362]

Absolutely loved the up close shot of the exterior color of your 9-3, the color is truly everything especially against the ice block rear taillights. Congrats Jacob on 150k miles.

[@AutoAutopsy]

thanks!

[@adrianportillo9839]

I would recommend a Saab of this year and model,we had one that reached up to 250k miles but the transmission died due to not having the transmission fluid changed,however if it would've been changed more constantly then I'm sure it wouldve lasted a lot longer

[@AutoAutopsy]

Yeah gotta make sure to do the trans fluid every now and then lol

[@fuentesjuanjose90]

My saab 2007 9-3 is approaching 150k is around 147 now and had it for 10 years now and it's safe to say this cars are very well durable. Once you learn so much about this cars you will fall in love with them. Only thing I've ever repaired was the engine headgasket( changed it myself easy process) because oil was leaking into the sparks. But now it runs like new again been doing maintenance to this car I love it so much.

[@josearellano3670]

I just got one as well exactly like yours 2007 but only with 78k miles got a steal

[@fdminu4283]

how did you find the issue out of oil spilling into the spark plugs

[@user-ss2iq3cw8e]

Bought my 9.3 2008 Sports Sedan Hirsch Turbo, drove about 150000 KM with it and is now at 230000 KM. Dealer in my town is a former Saab dealer, did spend about 1000 dollars a year on maintenance. I love this car so much, it is a real drivers cars with great design and fun to drive. Seats are leather and comfort. Yesterday I did drive from Florence Italy to Amsterdam on 2 full tanks via Germany. I was offered 4000 euro as a trade in value some weeks ago but every time I postpone my decision to buy another car. I am 51 and can buy a new car most people only can dream off but I simply love my Saab to much.

[@AutoAutopsy]

that's great

[@focused200]

Hell yea this is old school auto Autopsy videos in car with nice b-roll keep it up buddy

[@AutoAutopsy]

hahaha, thanks bro

[@focused200]

@@AutoAutopsy any time man

[@danrobinson9459]

I got a 06 5-speed sportcombi with the 2.0T, and it’s great. Minor problems like the rear door not locking with the key fob. But we got it go an amazing price and it’s a blast to drive even stock.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Very nice!

[@ThePrissy11]

I love my 2008 9-3 in nocturne blue. It only has 48k miles. It left me stranded once when the ignition switch (and underpart) froze. I was offered 8k for it but I wont sell. I love the car!😊. Keep making vids. Really good stuff. Thanks.

[@AutoAutopsy]

low miles! thanks for your support

[@cadynroberts5752]

Man keep up your videos I love your vids it's top me a lot about Saab thanks bro there's lot of people that have these cars but no one really goes into details about the oil leaks the common problems your vidies really help me out unfortunately I lost this car over a wreck but one day I will have another

[@AutoAutopsy]

happy to help! best of luck with your search for another car

[@vortexgaming7768]

I work at an AutoZone. One day an older gentleman came in looking for head gasket sealer. I asked what the car was, it was a 08 Saab 9-3 wagon. He lived about 1300 miles away and it was the cars first time out of Georgia. I asked if he wanted to sell it. He said sure and he ended up selling it for 600 bucks. The first time I saw a Saab. I bought it 😂. The car has 200 thou and the engine I got has only 49000 miles. I love a car that owes you nothing. It was my first engine swap and Installed the new one in about a week with very little guidance. It has some small electrical problems but otherwise a completely sound car. Thank you Gary K for giving me the gift of a lifetime.

[@klaspeppar5619]

Should you buy a Saab? Well maybe, if you have “Saab friends” who can help you fix it and at least on “Volvo friend” because someone will have tow you home when your Saab breaks down. I’m as always messing with you guy, I don’t know why but i have an odd amount of interest in Saab (grew up in a “Volvo family”, and the Swedish Volvo vs Saab rivalry and blah blah blah and so on, Is anyone reading this, anyway). One of my buddies had this OG 900, i really liked that thing for some odd reason, anyway one day when i got to school and sat down next to him, he ask him if I could help him with diagnosing his 900, appointment he heard a bang then lost power steering, the battery charge light came on and it started to run hot. I pretty much know it was the auxiliary belt, but he wasn’t quite convinced. So the next brake we went out and looked at it, Skoda boy joined us (one of my other buddies who had an Skoda Octavia VRS, the 1.8T, basically a Mk4 Golf GTI with a grandad suit”) and wouldn’t you know it i was right it had thrown the auxiliary belts. So we took the VRS to the local parts place the next brake and they had one of the belts but needed to get the other one from another location and it would get there just before we where done for the day. As we are walking out the guys start talking about borrowing tools from the school and trys to call one of our teachers, can’t get a hold of him and starts to worry about that, I simply told them not to worry about and then we went back to the parts store got the belts, went back to the parking lot and then i pull out my tool box from the V50 (Evert my 2010 Volvo V50 1.6D MTX75) and we fixed it together in the cold, there isn’t a lot of room between the front (which in a OG 900 is the back) of the engine and the fire wall. We are almost done and they go to get coolant with the VRS, so there i was in the cold, wrenching on my own, on my buddies 900 when his step dad who i had never met before pulls up in his OG 900 Turbo with a “toppola” (basically a camping box which replaces the rear hatch and sits on the roof), it was some what awkward but he was such a nice guy and we talked for a bit and we’re talking just as the guys came back with the coolant. Man i miss those times, my buddy with the 900 sold it and bought a Lexus, i sort of wanted to buy the 900, but it isn’t really practical for a jobless teenager in Sweden to own 3 cars.. (i have the V50 know as Evert and Ellie my 2001 S60 2.4T M56 with a BSR stage 1 tune). Skoda boy also sold his VRS and bought a 9-3 TiD, I’m so looking forward to hanging out and messing around with that thing once the current “situation” here in Sweden get more under control.

[@AutoAutopsy]

that sounds like a great memory; lol, i would love to see a 900 with a toppola in person; i'm not sure we even have any in the US

[@klaspeppar5619]

Auto Autopsy well the certainly look “unique”, very odd actually.

[@adrienfrancisco3551]

Getting my Saab 9-3 2.0 T 2006 on Wednesday, thank you so much.

[@AutoAutopsy]

awesome, enjoy!

[@waketp420]

I just bout a 2007. It's such a beautiful, unique car. It needs some love, but I'm willing to put some into it. Really looking forward to it.

[@danyzuhj]

My dad still has his 9-3 aero convertible from 2001(bought new)! It's such a good and fun car

[@mikemoyercell]

I was given my 2003 SAAB 9-3 with 170k miles from my father-in-law. It didn't run & I quickly figured out that it needed an ecu. I coded the ecu myself with trionic can flasher and fixed a few other odds and ends. I also put the ecu heatshield/bushing/spacer kit in it like you did & purchased it from the same guy as well. It now has 175k miles and runs better than it ever has. I also did a stage 1 tune. I got the ice block tails as well. I love the car! I know it'll run for awhile yet. -Mike

[@AutoAutopsy]

fantastic! nice work on saving that car Mike

[@joostmorren4677]

My Saab have 187500miles..... just replaced the starter motor..... it’s spinning and purring like a cat! Love my car to bits 👌🏻💪🏻🤘🏻

[@AutoAutopsy]

Very nice!

[@rickreid83]

One of my fav cars was the 9-3, simple, 38mpg, & felt like entry level lux…I want another Saab!

[@AutoAutopsy]

👊🏼🇸🇪

[@georgecostanza9213]

We got our 03 Saab 9-3 arc 4 years ago with 62,000 miles on it and have had to replace a few things but my Saab has been Amazing! Bout to take it on a 6k road trip.

[@AutoAutopsy]

awesome!

[@crownedgriffin]

I've had my 2010 for 9 years. They definitely cost most than just a few thousand back then! Only major failure has been the ECU which was replaced with a new NEVS one. Otherwise, it has been completely reliable. No oil leaks. No warning lights. Everything works.

[@AutoAutopsy]

awesome! goes to show you've clearly taken care of it

[@3waystopcock]

What is a NEVS ecu

[@crownedgriffin]

@@3waystopcock Nothing special. NEVS owns what's left of Saab. Just saying I was able to get one manufactured recently enough to not have Saab branding.

[@cg7799]

@@crownedgriffinjust a quick question, did you have to get it manufactured specifically for you.. or did you buy it manufactured?

[@crownedgriffin]

@@cg7799 The ECU? I took it to Gary Small Saab. They seem to get parts from NEVS or Orio directly.

[@thezaalls]

I love my 9-3 and I will drive it until I die.

[@AutoAutopsy]

:') yes!

[@seancole7827]

just bought a 2003 9-3 Arc few weeks ago, good car so far. other than a P0411 code, and suspension work needed, car runs good and strong with 140,000 miles

[@AutoAutopsy]

nice!

[@jakubjedras5024]

I have an identical Saab - 2003, arc, midnight blue, auto etc. In one year and about 5000 miles (daily driving in a small European city) I've done coil pack, spark plugs, engine oil, ECU, water pump, timing chain, xenon ballast control unit, thermostat, brake pads, exhaust flex pipe and AC fan cause it was noisy. And literally yesterday my serpentine belt started squeaking like crazy. This car makes sure I won't get bored and have something to do 😂

[@asssiesgaming453]

But then again what is the mileage? 200.000 KM? Or even 300.000KM? And the car is 18! Years old.

[@jakubjedras5024]

@@asssiesgaming453 it has 209000 km. I know it's an old car and stuff is going to brake. My friend has one for 2 years now and he did normal stuff like oils, spark plugs, brake pads etc. other than that nothing else. Even tho these repairs are frustrating, because there's something new like every few days (it's not that often, I'm exaggerating a bit haha) i love the car and i don't plan to get rid of it. I'm going to repair it when something breaks and probably drive it until it's dead or unrepairable.

[@AutoAutopsy]

wow, that's quite the list; but glad you're enjoying it. Midnight blue is such a good color

[@asssiesgaming453]

@@jakubjedras5024 Mine is also from 2003 and also has a lot of things that needs fixing. But the car is so nice, so i am with you. We got to keep them going!

[@Itsjayduhhhhh]

My mechanic was a Saab dealer originally which is why we use him (my parents owned a 9-5 and a 9-3 when I was younger) had to take my car into the shop and he let me borrow a 06 9-3, absolute dream to drive besides the slipping transmission

[@yamoms0919]

Just bought an '07 Arc with 159k on it for 2 freakin thousand, such a steal imo especially in the current used car market. ECM was going bad so was giving original owner all kinds of issues related to that. Had a guy close to me who could flash ECMs; and problems went away with a flashed replacement! Doing the gamut of preventative things but so far so good! Done spark plugs, coils, oil change, power steering pump seals, vacuum pump seals, and valve cover gasket! Looking to do oil pressure sensor, transmission fluid flush, and the fuel pump in the next week or two and that will hopefully cover most of the ground for parts that normally fail in these things. All that to say, I read about people taking these things into 3-400k miles and I'm really hoping to be able to do so with this car. If you can find someone with a Tech II and the ability to flash ECMs, it makes grabbing one of these things worth at the prices you can find em for.

[@AutoAutopsy]

awesome, good to hear

[@jschofield316]

I'm getting my 2003 Saab 9-3 convertible on Friday and I can't wait. It was me and my mom's dream car growing up. I can't wait until she sees it. She doesn't know I'm getting it. Can't wait to take her for a ride with the top down! 😊

[@buttercake1499]

How many miles it’s got?

[@jschofield316]

@@buttercake1499 114k

[@AutoAutopsy]

that's awesome. enjoy the memories!

[@babanarr3311]

235,450 miles so far on mine 9 years old and still all the original turbo and engine.. had them since 1980.. fantastic cars..

[@AutoAutopsy]

Awesome

[@matterhorn1975]

I have a 2004 93 vector sport 1.9tid which has done 168,000 miles FSH every single reciept from new, mapped to 180bhp and it drives amazing, tight as anything, unbelievably comfortable and astonishingly amazing on fuel. It has a rare tilt and slide sunroof fitted, 6 speed manual heated full leather seats. 10months MOT All for £1,000

[@barrybrocksmith6515]

Good overview!

[@AutoAutopsy]

thanks!

[@Blueskull390]

have a 2006 93 2.0T 218000 miles that I bought for $700. great car also very amazed on how much they don't rust. little patches on rear fender and some on subframe and that's it. spent all its life in the upper north east. if you from this area or where they use calcium chloride on the roads you understand how impressive that is.

[@AutoAutopsy]

good to hear

[@lucnieuwenhoven7902]

I have a 2004 9-3 aero with 230.000 miles on it but it’s still kicking and drives perfect 👌🏼

[@AutoAutopsy]

awesome

[@dannymurray3061]

I have a saab 93 1.9 tid anniversary sport 150 in "ice blue" awesome unusual colour and cannot bring myself to part with it they are such good underrated cars had it 3+ years and never let me down other than basic maintenance. Would recommend to anyone!!!

[@AutoAutopsy]

awesome

[@caffina5882]

I've had my 9-3 for 3 years now and I've also had those exact same oil leak spots. All of them are easy fixed. Only thing that really hurt was getting my water pump replaced and a new ecu.

[@RADThird1]

Yeah talk to me about water pumps. I've had it replaced twice in less then two years on my '06 9-3 sport combi 2.0T. I'm 72 with some health issues so I don't do my own work anymore. To be fair the shop worked with me on the bill for the second one but still pricy. I'm going to stick with it until I can't afford it as it just turned over 85k.

[@AutoAutopsy]

jeez; yeah the water pump is a BIG repair...hoping mine doesn't start leaking lol

[@britnylizet]

I got a 9-3 a year ago.. ran perfectly and bam ECU shut down. Doesn't start at all now. How'd you get the ECU replaced?

[@henriklarsson7835]

Thanks for a great vid. The rims look just beautiful. Are they SAAB original?

[@AutoAutopsy]

Thank you. They’re not! Sport edition p3

[@reaganquinley3507]

My first car at 16 was a 2003 9-3 with 160k miles. Loved it at first but then it started going into limp mode. All. The. Time. It got so frustrating and no professional mechanic near me would even touch it. I ended up selling it off. Sometimes I miss it, but then I remember the time I fell into limp mode on the freeway. Never again lol

[@AutoAutopsy]

Sorry to hear :( not sure where you live, but chances are there's some saab enthusiasts nearby that could have helped you

[@EFACE402]

Literally watching this on my way to buy a 2007 9-3 and you’ve done nothing but convince me!!

[@AutoAutopsy]

Enjoy!

[@JoesGoldenGarage]

I agree with you on all points. But my 08 sportcombi with 160k has the dreaded valve issue that I believe only affects 08-11 cars. It stilll a great daily driver but the morning starts are a lil rough. My Saab guy is keeping an eye on it. He says it’s good to go a while longer before repair is needed. At which point $2000 will get me new ones. I had the 3 oil leaks you mentioned. All fixed up. New tires recently. The car is a freeway machine. I have cruising footage as well on my channel. Thanks for this video!

[@caffina5882]

Also includes the 07 for the valve issues.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Nice! Yeah, that valve issue is probably the biggest looming problem on those later 2.0 9-3’s. Glad to hear it’s good for now and you’re willing to invest the money into the repair when the time comes!

[@JoesGoldenGarage]

@@caffina5882 I was curious on that yr as well

[@caffina5882]

If you do have valve issues you can also put a 03-06 head on and never have to worry about issues ever again.

[@JoesGoldenGarage]

@@caffina5882 I need that. Car would literally be 100% with a new old good head

[@nolanpratt4291]

I have owned my 2008 93 2.0T since new,which is now past 250K miles and it has never left me on the side of the road. Plus I’m still on the original turbo, alternator, starter, and all 4 wheel bearings which I can’t believe. In fairness I do a lot of hwy miles but have been very faithful with oil changes and do drain and refill half the tranny fluid every 50K or so. The Aisin Japanese transmissions are generally considered bulletproof if cared for, mine still shifts like butter. Parts are still readily available and often quite reasonable if you can source after market parts. I use Rock Auto quite a bit when it doesn’t have to be genuine. My opinion is this a great car especially for someone who likes to tinker. Many general mechanics can do the basics but you will need a Saab specialist to fix any serious electronics issues. I have always kept a healthy battery in mine and have never had any electrical issues.

[@AutoAutopsy]

wow, there's very few original owners still out there; kudos!

[@nolanpratt4291]

@@AutoAutopsy This was my first Saab and I had no idea that I would get so attached. My job as a travelling sales engineer has allowed me many opportunities to rent premium cars including BMWs and Mercedes, and there was NEVER a time I wasn't happy to get back in my 93 and could imagine trading it in.

[@222mariah]

Possibly gonna be purchasing one of these as my first car in a few days(:

[@ilenewtf]

Did you get it? If so how’s it going! Looking at one out in the country and I’m probably getting it

[@habi0187]

I already have a 9-3 convertible 2010 with 120000 miles and I really love it. It’s engine is like factory new. Now I have the opportunity to buy a 1995 Saab 9000 2.3 Turbo with original 70000 miles. I am still thinking a bit because it would be my third car as well but I am 99% confident to buy it. I have to check for rust because the 9000 is famous for rusting but when you look around you will find several with between 200 to 300 k miles on the first engine.

[@AutoAutopsy]

awesome, good luck!

[@brink-1980]

My 9-3 has been on the road for 32k km and still going strong. It's a really reliable car!

[@AutoAutopsy]

😁👍🏼

[@Victor-fe9ln]

I already purchased a 06 9-3 sportcombi with 1.8 z18xev engine (90kw). The car is fully stock, 240k km. Had another 7k km and I have to say that it’s faster than I expected, the fuel consumption depends on the way you ride, but in my case: 5.2/5.7L per 100km. I am satisfied with this car.

[@yungjuicebox1335]

I know this is a couple years late but I am about to get my second car ever (my 2005 jeep liberty that I got in 2016 was my first car, its 2024 now and had to scrap her sadly) and I think that this will be my next car. (2010 model). Thanks for the informative video to really help me get comfortable with the decision.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Enjoy it! Don’t be afraid to do your own work and join your local Saab club on Facebook for help

[@heinargo]

ECUs are the most troublesome things to go wrong - used ones are hard to find and new ones are very expensive. Other than that, as shown in the video, it is easy car to run and maintain. One more thing (also mentioned in the video): Saabs are very easy to tune.

[@AutoAutopsy]

good point! I always leave something out, lol

[@Lamster66]

My 2003 Aero has 175K miles on it. In the 9 years I've abused it on a daily basis it its never left me stranded! Even when the ECU failed a few years ago It still got me home from Holiday/Vaccation It actually failed 2 days before we were due to come home and was going in and out of limp and reporting just about everything as being either broken or not working . It still drove us around for those two days and managed the 1hr drive to the SAAB indy garage I use the following week to get repaired. TBH I don't think there are many original parts still on it. It's had virtually every sensor replaced at least once as well as CIM, Key reader Timing Chains, Alternator (twice) Cabin Fan and controller Window regulators door locks Xenon ballast Xenon bulbs Clutch Shocks and Springs Ignition Coils rear trailing arms and on and on and on I think less than 50% of the car has done 175K

[@AutoAutopsy]

Lol nice! True definition of a tank

[@_ismail8880]

Just bought a 2004 9-3 2.0 with 100k miles with one owner. He followed all the required maintenance, the car is in almost perfect condition. He sold it to me for 1.5k!

[@AutoAutopsy]

wow, what a steal!

[@jeadie2273]

I’ve got one for you….2004 9-3 aero cabrio manual. No start no click but no warning lights of any kind. Put in new battery and it started right up…for 20 seconds then died as if someone simply turned it off..no sputtering…just off and lights on dash like when in accessory mode. No restart, no click, nothing. Unhooked battery and it started again…for 20 seconds. Thoughts anyone?

[@timakimat]

I have a 2009 Biopower Vector Business Sports Combi. 200hp, leather seats, and a decent driving feedback. While not perfect it’s a good bang for the buck. Coils had to be changed and rear wheel arch rust is an issue.

[@AutoAutopsy]

nicely said; glad i don't have to deal with rust worsening where i live haha

[@timakimat]

@@AutoAutopsy Greetings from Finland where the roads are salted and everything will be rusted shut. Except the parts that will be rusted through or rusted off.

[@renegadetherapper]

I went to a used salesman today and finally test drove my dream car - a Saab 9,3 (2006, black 4 dr sedan, sun roof). It was an incredible ride for me. I was so amazed about everything… I knew in my heart I would love to ride this thing. It’s got 110,000+ miles but I tried to find issues and simply could not. My bf couldn’t either, and he’s a mechanic. I’m waiting to find out if get approved for the loan. If I do it’s mine. Im trying to just stay neutral about the situation but Im hoping for the best.

[@Noel-ui8dr]

Lol what a coincidence, just came across a 2006 9-3 black conversion (Aero) as I was car shopping for my wife. But mine has only done 78k (lucky i guess). Let me know if you get it! All the best.

[@dandyfi4076]

All things considered, I don’t think there are any other cars out there that can compare to Saab’s in terms of over all value. That being said, I bought my 2010 9-3 with 17K miles, now at 140K+, has been great overall, but getting up there in miles and age makes me nervous about possible expensive repairs that I can’t handle myself.

[@AutoAutopsy]

i agree! well said

[@jaabnegat]

@dandyfi4076 Spokojnie, spokojnie... najważniejsze wymieniać wszelkie oleje i pasek rozrządu na czas i nic złego nie powinno się dziać :) Ja także mam SAAB z 2010 roku, dbam o niego i jest w stanie bardzo dobrym. Z pewnością nie wymieniłbym go NA NOWY współczesny samochód, bo są po prostu gorsze! Pozdrawiam

[@niastaton1941]

I'm excited this is gonna be my first car !

[@AutoAutopsy]

Awesome!

[@carls8286]

I have the 2004 1.8t. It has about 193000 miles on it and still no big issues during the 6 years Ive had it. Ive previously had 900s and 9000s but the 9-3 feels far more reliable.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Awesome

[@davidharp6857]

I've got a b207e really low mileage but suffered alot at the beginning with water ingress, now it's all fixed and never had any trouble, looking to upgrade to a v6 or b207r though

[@AutoAutopsy]

nice!

[@shockwave1875]

Im watching this video because I bought a Saab as my first car and turns out it’s a really good car with minor problems I’m thinking about modifying it jus like you did with yours and either sell it or keep it

[@AutoAutopsy]

Glad it helped. good luck!

[@norbertorivera6620]

I’ve owned a 2007 9-3 since 2012 with no mayor issues. Now on the 167,000 miles and good running conditions to hit the 200,000 mark. Very reliable daily driver.

[@mdd47]

I'm a Mazda guy but I keep seeing these things for sale dirt cheap and they usually aren't ragged out. It's such a great looking design. I think I'm going to talk my wife into letting me look for one.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Heck yeah. Go for it!

[@1Brooklyn2Many]

You have to talk your wife into letting you spend your own money ? Marriage seems hard nowadays 😂

[@mdd47]

@@1Brooklyn2Many it's not *my* money it's *our* money. It would be pretty disrespectful of me to not consult my spouse when buying something as significant as a car.

[@1Brooklyn2Many]

Screw that, this is why I can't see myself ever getting married, it's too much of a hassle, wife can cheat at any moment and file divorce and take half of everything

[@adrianherbert5384]

change the oil at least twice a year and you won't go far wrong. In the UK, I can get an oil change with (supplied) fully synthetic oil (mobile) and an oil filter for the equivalent of 3/4 tank of fuel. Soooo worth it. I have had four SAABs and still run two. A 2009 2.3T wagon that has 260 HP, and a very silly 2.8 V6 2008 convertible, past 300 BHP heading to 350 plus!!!

[@AutoAutopsy]

awesome

[@jacobisded646]

i own a 2005 9-3 linear saab! I love it well over 200,000 m and its still great. Im getting the radiator repaired currently but other than that being messed up its just perfect. it puts the modern cars ive driven to shame haha. okay maybe i wouldnt go that far. lol

[@AutoAutopsy]

lol awesome

[@user-mx2vl5qv1b]

My 08 Saab Aero won't let me open the hood!?? I pull the lever. It clicks but I can't lift it to release latch?? Please help me! How can I fix that???

[@juliooliveira1672]

I bought a 2004 Saab 9-3 for $500 literally the greatest and best purchase of my life only had it for a year but that baby ran like a dream I had so much fun in that car and I have so many memories

[@juliooliveira1672]

Have been thinking about getting another one tho

[@NLDMesa06]

I am on my second 2004 9-5 Aero. The first was reasonably reliable but had some odd intermittent electrical issues. My current 9-5 has been a labor or love...and money. I don't wrench much unless my brother is there to supervise. My advise to anyone looking to buy a SAAB is to have a SAAB specialist do a thorough inspection on it. If you don't have a specialist nearby, don't buy one. I have three specialists where I live and servicing is still a headache at times. Don't get me wrong, SAABs are excellent cars but all cars need to be maintained and these cars are very intolerant of neglect, more so than any Asian or American brand. Very few used car bargains out there provide as much bang for your buck in terms of safety, snow driving, comfort, efficiency, and performance potential, as a SAAB does. Just be aware that if you buy one that has been neglected, you need to invest the time and money it takes to bring it up to spec because the issues will keep compounding.

[@AutoAutopsy]

very well said!

[@mackenzieelan512]

I bought a 2003 9-3 vector 2 weeks ago for $4K. Everything runs well. No issues. I think I have the base trim since it is manual, with no sunroof or heated seats. It was from a private seller at 166,000 miles. Do you think I overpaid or was it a good price?

[@AutoAutopsy]

probably a bit steep on price given the miles, but the fact its a manual is cool!

[@pulseight8038]

I got so lucky finding mine with 87,000 miles and a ng! If anyone has the inclination to get a Saab from these vids DO IT! You will not regret it I’m about 2500 deep in preemptive repairs and I’m not upset one bit. Next repair is my vacuum pump replacement next week for $300. Mannn where did you get those aero brake kits again? Thought I saw them on esaabparts.

[@pulseight8038]

I made a little garbage channel last year with how it looks and runs a little kinda curious on your thoughts sir it’s called silverbulletsaab

[@AutoAutopsy]

nice! i'll have to check out the channel. $2500 in for a car with that miles is great. I'd recommend finding them secondhand, at least for the calipers, as that'll be cheapest. You'll need the calipers, brackets, rotors, and pads. I would recommend swapping the dust shields too, although it's a but of work

[@pulseight8038]

Thanks a lot bro! The calipers look sooo damn clean on there too sick of looking at slightly rusted calipers next to new rotors. Looking forward to the next video

[@pulseight8038]

Also, just a thought, but have you thought about making a discord dedicated to saabs? Maybe post the server link for on patreon I’m seriously considering becoming a member which would be my first.

[@tadiazupan3162]

Hello master! I'm planning to buy a 9-3, 2003 model, and I'm wondering if I can put the front bumper, headlights, mask, rear brake lights transparent from the redesign of the 9-3 2008 line? Thank you

[@AutoAutopsy]

Hey. Yes, but it’s a lot of work for the front end. Taillights are a direct swap. Front end swap requires headlights, bumper, fenders, hood, headlight buckets, and wiring. If you haven’t bought the car yet, you should just buy a 2008+

[@ftby59mikeD]

Saab love!.picked up a '06 9-3 Aero V6 'vert and won't part with it. Yes, there will be issues, as with any brand, but turn your own wrenches & you'll save serious coin. Aftermarket & OEM parts are available, so don't let that dissuade you.👍

[@AutoAutopsy]

perfectly said!

[@TheViceman]

I have one and it way ower 300 000... and it has been serverd me well. I lovi it

[@eliezergutierrez2472]

I have a 08 Civic LX with an auto and I want to mod it but the engine isn't friendly to mods, it's not the K20. I'm on the fence of selling it and buying something else and I'm interested in the Saab 9-3 xwd with the 2.0t. I want some opinions please I need some help.

[@AutoAutopsy]

My opinion is in this video! Lol

[@jwp1595]

I had a aero 2.0T from 120k-170k miles in 2 years paid £500 for it. Had everything, electric seats heated etc and it all worked. Very good car. Sadly the chain needed doing and front shocks both needed doing so I got rid of it and got a 2.8 V6 which is so much better!!!!

[@AutoAutopsy]

hope you didnt junk the old one!

[@jaabnegat]

Nie ma lepszego niż SAAB!

[@Jim-kz2ue]

I had a '94 900s with 180k miles and sold it awhile ago. I now have a 1999 93 SE convertible with 151k miles...should last a long time...but have oil leak and need to fix..my mechanic said it will be a 3k investment.

[@AutoAutopsy]

3k to fix an oil leak?? I would hit up my friend @savingsaabs on instagram about that, he knows those cars pretty well

[@kristiankuci6871]

My father bought it brand new in 2007. Still have it.

[@AutoAutopsy]

🤙🏼

[@michaelolio5569]

Bought my 2.0 9-3 for $ 3500. It had 88,000 miles. Definitely the most bang for your buck!

[@AutoAutopsy]

awesome!

[@kennorcott7074]

Considering I’m looking at buying an automatic 2.0T with 366,000 miles on original drivetrain I’d say yes

[@SlurpeesRbad]

question about your turbo x : how often do you have to service the XWD and how hard is it

[@AutoAutopsy]

you need a lift to do, so I take it to a shop. I would probably say it should be done every 20k miles

[@johnadams9044]

Prices of all 9-3 cars has made solid increases. Lower mileage cars carry a huge premium.

[@cinrambrad]

A few months back right after the paint job, didn't you also back into something and destroy the new paint in the back? Has that been sorted?

[@AutoAutopsy]

no lol

[@andykopgod]

I want one, but had a bad time with my Audi A4 2.0 TDI, looks gorgeous.

[@AutoAutopsy]

What does an Audi have anything to do with a Saab though? Lol

[@andykopgod]

@@AutoAutopsy sorry, what i mean is buying high mileage performance cars, i want to go retro, but are Saabs reliable, what should i look for?

[@goodcitizen3910]

@@andykopgod have owned 1 for a year, bought it at 136k km it’s at 142k now Amazing car I’m pretty sure the previous owner didn’t take care of it as the first oil change was murky asf (car was also due trans fluid change, 2 of the HL bulbs were out) put a new battery in it too (but that’s because I left the car sitting for a while so battery went bad Have had a couple vacuum leaks but trust me if you have ever owned a BMW BENZ Audi etc this will feel like a goddamn blessing Gas mileage is nice if you drive highway alot I get 10.8l/100km while driving highway and around 15 in the city

[@goodcitizen3910]

I also push my Saabs limits every now and then and the car seems to like it .

[@FilhoSpyderTran]

When you get maptun, are you required to get the expensive exhaust system or can you just save your money and get only the license for like $550?

[@AutoAutopsy]

if you're getting a stage that requires modifications, you need to have those modifications done before putting the software on your car

[@lennartproost537]

I got a 2005 9-3 1.9 TiD Arc manual Saab, for almost a year. I bought it on 181454 km. Yes it had some issues but nothing more like standard maintenance, except for the new intercooler and massflywheel. It costed me 1500 euro's and a another 3000-ish for repairs, replacements, maintenance. So still a car for 4500 euro. Saab parts are cheap and most maintenance parts are easy to do yourself. Its reliable, and fast. Not as quality compared to the 99 and the 900 but this isnt your average shitbucket either. Basicly i would keep it as long as possible, no matter the mileage its going to get or what the new laws will give us about fossil fueled vehicles. Hell i'll even drive it on eco-fuels or turn it into a electric saab if i have to! 9/10, would Saab again.

[@AutoAutopsy]

Well said sir!

[@lennartproost537]

@@AutoAutopsy thank you

[@tomdonald9232]

I just bought a 2007 9-3 with 120,000 miles for $1,500 I love the car biggest bang for my buck indeed

[@stevenbeute5242]

just passed 160k on my 03 Arc, still as reliable as the day i bought it 10 years ago with 60k.

[@AutoAutopsy]

thanks for sharing

[@dixonkodama305]

Keep a few small pieces of wood blocks in the vehicle. drive up not them to create the space you need to maneuver the jack in place should you experience a flat again.

[@oscar.rx2715]

Hi i’m looking at your videos and wondering if I should get this exact same saab with 134k miles for $4,500 , looks to be in pretty good condition and as a saab owner yourself would you recommend me getting it. (Also this is my first time buying a car as a 17 year old)

[@AutoAutopsy]

If it’s an 03-06 2.0T, that price might be a little steep imo. Hard to judge without seeing the car though

[@Dhvdvdvdbdbd]

Absolutely love mine! I drive mine hard well made great vehicle n ur video's are cool can I be in one with my saab?

[@AutoAutopsy]

feel free to DM me on instagram and we can see what's up! (@Auto.Autopsy)

[@alexandermcdiarmid3822]

The experience with my 93 has been not as great as yours. Owned the car since 83k, now has 187k. ECU died 30k miles ago, I just got it fixed this year cuz the dealer wanted $1,500 to replace and marry it to the car (more than it’s worth). I found one off an ‘04 that had a blown engine. Took me a while to get around to downloading Trionic CAM flasher and buying an OBDLINK SX cable to transfer the VIN over, so ran on about half power for a long time. I’ve replaced two brake calipers, been stranded twice in one year (granted the shop I took it to replaced the coolant host where it T’s off to the turbo with a plastic part and not a metal one, but those coolant hoses have cracked and exploded on me before leaving me stranded). Replaced struts, springs, shocks, needs rear lower control arm bushings, shock mounts have ripped in half, rust is a huge issue with this car where I live. It’s rotting away worse and worse every year and it’s too expensive to fix. Trim above door ripped out of the metal somehow and isn’t fixable without fabrication. Just replaced coils and plugs (expensive!). Water pump busted and leaked, expansion tank and cap broke, AC compressor and expansion valve died (car’s AC is staring to knock again yay me!). Cuplholder broke, replaced a lot of leaky oil seals like the PS pump and vacuum pump. Planning to do the front main seal soon. Only for them to blow out again because I had a bad $10 PCV check valve inside the intake manifold (genius engineering). Amp1 failure because it got wet from snow (another genius engineering decision). Bad engine Mounts. Poor fuel economy. It’s starting rough with no check engine light. This doesn’t include all of the time consuming basic maintenance, oil isn’t cheap for this car. I use this car as a delivery vehicle and drive it 100 miles a day or so, I can’t afford to have it sitting around a shop for a week at a time while it waits for parts. That’s all I can remember for now but this car has been a lemon for me lately and it’s about time to just get rid it. Tired of doing repair after repair that aren’t cheap and hard to find parts.

[@AutoAutopsy]

parts are all very easy to find online!

[@ihmemies5952]

I have a 2001 9-3 2.0t The mileage is already 310000km and still going strong

[@AutoAutopsy]

Nice!

[@TheShadowWolf162]

looking at a SUPER clean red 05 9-3 turbo 87k miles asking 3250 thinking about pulling the trigger, what do you think?

[@AutoAutopsy]

Sounds like a fair price given the miles and condition

[@leonardyoung5626]

I really want one of the 99-02 9-3s. Really pushed me more in the direction

[@AutoAutopsy]

Cool! Just a heads up, this car is almost 100% different from the 99-02 models

[@leonardyoung5626]

@@AutoAutopsy yea super different. I lll take this one too. Easier to find for great prices!!!

[@profdrawing72]

Hello, I need a used Saab 2004 3-9 2.0T in perfect condition How much will it cost؟

[@matollsen2523]

How did you make it sounds so nice?

[@AutoAutopsy]

Custom 3" exhaust: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aHrbZHevjZpgitE

[@UnderGOD81]

@autoautopsy what size wheels/specs do you have on your 9-3

[@AutoAutopsy]

Sport edition p3 18x8

[@automobiledetail2307]

I have a question about my 9-3 aero. It misfires on heavy throttle even after I changed plugs and coils. Any ideas

[@sarahd4720]

Pcv valve

[@AutoAutopsy]

Vacuum leak could also be the cause. Might be plugs or coils too, if you didn't put OEM ones in

[@markaustin4370]

You drove my 2010 CV with 151k It's still a fun tight reliable car. 2nd gear gets better the more you dive it after the fluid flush. Can't wait for you to see the head unit. Totally unobtrusive

[@AutoAutopsy]

👊🏼🙌🏼

[@thingserik7269]

The 9-3/9-5 is probably a safer purchase than a BMW or Audi of the same year. Not very difficult to work on. Parts are available and not very expensive. The ONLY exclusive tech issue is you may need someone with a genuine GM Tech 2 programmer. Everything else is stock mechanic work.

[@AutoAutopsy]

very well said; a tech2 is a must have if you own a lot of these (like myself lol)

[@kujtimzymeri3358]

I found same 2.2 tid 2004 for 3200€. This or Astra G 2.0 2000?

[@gullyfx1]

Tell me if you think I got a good deal, about an hour ago I just purchased a Saab 9-3tid vector sport, it’s an 09 plate, AUTO, sitting on 90k for £1800 @80k - Full service inc All filters, glow plugs and oil changed. Also had battery and discs and pads replaced at the same time. 86k - Oil change/pil filter replaced New aletrnator fitted last year. Waterpump and timing belt replaced at around 75k miles

[@AutoAutopsy]

awesome