2000 SAAB 9-3 Reviews

Bought non-running;

- Head gasket had blown.

- Electrical gremlins (seat adjustment, display CCS).

- Seat torn.

I am a confirmed classic Saab nutter, and wanted to try out the post GM ownership models. That was a mistake.

I bought the car for 1,500$ in NON running condition - the head gasket had reportedly blown.

I collected all the parts and knowledge needed for this repair. Everything went well, and the car started on the first try. After a day of testing and driving, the engine developed a heavy bottom end knock; it was immediately shut down. Attempts to restart it were unsuccessful, and the car had to be towed home. The engine was seized solid.

I had to sell the car for 1,000 while I had invested over 800$ into it. I drove it maybe 10 miles total before the engine seized.

Really I can't see why anyone would want to spend money on such a poorly built and designed automobile. It's just simply useless. Nothing is quite right; the handling is too biased towards understeer, the ride is not comfortable, the steering isn't precise, and the recalls and problems with this car are too severe.

It really has absolutely nothing to do with the refined and sporty classic models. It's shameful for such a terrible car to be associated with a manufacturer that was known for build quality and performance.

I am not impressed at all, and cannot recommend this car to anyone. GM completely ruined the brand.

Engine started to clatter after almost not starting one morning when the temperature dipped below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Paid $250 to my mechanic to find out that my engine is toast; 10 psi compression on cylinder #1 while 170 - 190 on all other cylinders. Optic scope shows oil in cylinder #1 and fouled plug. I have had oil problems since the high-temperature vacuum hose collapsed and split. (I replaced it with the Saab kit; $200 for the kit, $200 to have it installed.)

One of the lifters for the convertible top is leaking, the part alone costs $500.

I have had it with Saab... there are only three dealers in my area, two are within 10 miles, the other is 30 miles away. I have terrible experiences at both of the local dealers by over-pricing and poor service. I am getting $1000 as a trade-in and going back to a GM product. At least I can get parts at reasonable cost and have a choice of dealers.