2005 SAAB 9-3 Aero review from North America

At 44,000 miles, rattle under car. Turned out to be loose bolt by catalytic converter.

Also, rattle in the dashboard right above the fuel gauge. Fixed by inserting a missing screw (according to Saab technician).

At 48,000 miles, my car key malfunctioned and needed to be replaced. After putting into ignition, the car wouldn't start and a message on dashboard indicated that there was a key malfunction.

At 53,000 miles, the car key would not open doors and all you could hear is a click when pressing the lock or unlock buttons. Luckily I had a second key, and am currently taking back to Saab dealer for replacement.

Also at 53,000 miles, a whirring sound is coming from the front of the passenger side. The sound occurs when the car is stationary when the clutch is pressed and a little gas is given. Also occurs when car is in motion at a steady speed when the gas pedal is held constant. Unknown cause as of yet.

Performance is outstanding, especially at higher speeds.

Car will not sway in heavy wind, connects with the road.

Extremely comfortable ride, the seat is supports you and can be moved in virtually any direction.

Gas mileage is acceptable for a car with a turbo and over 200 horse power.

Miscellaneous rattles are irritating, from the dashboard, doors and under body.

Infotainment could be easier to use and do a better job remembering your last setting. For example, if I switch to AUX to use my MP3 player, the next time the car is turned on it defaults back to the radio.

Car keys are unusually large and also unreliable. Always carry both keys just in case.