2008 SAAB 9-3 Turbo Vector 2.0 petrol from Belgium

Summary:

Good car but not a real SAAB like the previous ones

Faults:

The GM 2.0-liter engine is unreliable, and I've had several problems.

Overheating (due to coolant leaks, a faulty thermostat, or a faulty radiator fan). The engine overheats and may even shut down if the temperature gets too high.

There are also problems with the turbo (this shouldn't be normal in a gasoline car), damaged seals, or dirt and dust entering the turbo through the air filter.

Various misfires, due to electrical faults, fuel injection system failures, or problems with the camshaft or crankshaft sensor, result in the engine cranking but not starting, or simply not starting at all.

Another problem, not a cause for concern, is that the check engine light comes on frequently, due to a wide variety of faults, from ignition problems to fuel injection problems. Most of the time, it comes on without any engine problems, but it's not supposed to.

General Comments:

The car is beautiful, comfortable, safe, and easy to drive. In this respect, it has all the qualities of a true SAAB, but for the reasons I mentioned and the serious engine failures, it's truly a step backwards compared to my previous SAABs (I previously owned a 9000 and a 900).

In terms of reliability, it feels like the engine isn't made by the Swedish brand. When I bought it, I didn't expect all these problems, especially with the engine.

Even with its problems, the 2.0 is powerful and offers quick acceleration and good response, with remarkable driving pleasure, especially when overtaking.

The spacious cabin and excellent sound insulation create a comfortable environment for everyday use.

Its aesthetics are timeless and elegant, with a design that doesn't look dated after so many years.

As for safety, this is its strong point, as it includes good standard safety equipment, such as ABS with EBD and cornering brake control.

For those who want to buy a car like this, I recommend something that I didn't do (and I regret) which is a thorough inspection. It is essential to thoroughly check the car, paying special attention to the possible common problems mentioned.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 26th October, 2025

29th Oct 2025, 18:04

My thoughts exactly. I had a 9000 back in the day, great car, but then never considered Saab's more modern stuff, glad I did not!

22nd Nov 2025, 13:53

I'm surprised that some people say the 9-3 and 9-5 are superior to the 9000 and 900. More modern doesn't mean better; in this case, it's the opposite. And this review makes that perfectly clear.

While I like Saabs from the 2000s onward, they lack the personality of their predecessors.

2008 SAAB 9-3 1.9 TiD turbo diesel from UK and Ireland

Summary:

What a great car

Faults:

Not faults to report on this car.

General Comments:

Car goes like a train, returns 54 mpg no matter how hard I push it. Never lets me down, and no more expensive to maintain than any other car I have had.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th November, 2010

25th Nov 2010, 14:56

Today I decided to go and have a look at a Saab 9-3 Vector Sport 120 Tid, it was a Black Horse Car Sales ex fleet car.

The pictures and description were quite impressive, for a vehicle a 57 plate with 77190 miles and at £7795.

On reading reviews online concerning quality of the build of the interior, I dismissed criticism of GM's Vectra comparison as harsh... in truth I have to say they are accurate, for the price the car retails at the plastics and fitment are cheap and flimsy.. I was honestly appalled as my 54 plate Golf TDI is much much better made in every way, having covered 78k in 6yrs, and still free of rattles and creaks, and at least the engine is not GM or Fiat based.

The only saving grace for Saab is the new taxation class as at 119gr/k mean it's £0 for 1st year, then £30pa after that, and it does not compete with Mercs VAG and BMW, a lot of £££'s will depreciate very quickly I think.

So I'm keeping my superior VW.