2003 SAAB 9-3 ARC review from North America
"Drives and handles well, but safety of 2003 9-3's made before December 2003 is in question"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
My SAAB 9-3 Arc has had numerous problems with the windows, the fuel system, transmission, battery, and cheap plastics inside and out. Yet I love the feel for this car when I drive and I am comfortable in the drivers seat--which is saying a lot as I have long legs and do not fit in most vehicles.
Now I have an infant and car seat issues. I have heard that all SAAB 9-3's made prior to December 2003 (including the earliest of the 2003 model year) are missing certain airbag protections that were available in 2004 models. Hopefully this is not true and 2003 cars are not as safe as advertised?
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| Worst car I've ever owned in any price range |
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| 2002 - 9-3 Convertible SE turbo Horrible |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 2003 |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0T Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 5 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 10 miles |
| Most recent distance | 45000 miles |
| Previous car | SAAB Pontiac Grand Prix |
| Date of Entry | 30th December, 2007 |