The engine makes a noise after sitting for 6 or more hours. The noise sounds similar to a power steering screech, but isn't. It only lasts 45-60 seconds. I've had three mechanic look at it, and none of them know with certainty, but speculate timing chain-related. None of them recommend doing anything with it right now in that it is expensive to replace the timing chain, and there's no guarantee that will eliminate the noise. There aren't any other problems as the power, compression, and temperature are all normal. My guess is that it's taking too long for the oil pump to get oil to the timing chain, but the mechanics say the oil pump seems fine.
The right rear tire or wheel just started making a noise too. Sounds like a blemmished/warped tire or one going flat, which isn't the case. I'll have it checked out next week. Could be a bearing going bad. Seems kind of early with only 67k miles though.
Other than these two things, the car is absolutely fantastic. I bought it off e-bay for only $12,700, and would do it again in a heart beat.
It's much quicker than the 900 Turbo I ahd several years ago. [Got rid of it with 227k miles on it, only because it lost fifth gear and would have cost too much to fix.] This 2002 9.3 is quicker, and as steady, quiet, and powerful at high speeds as my 1987 900 Turbo. Gets less MPG though, only 25-28. My 1987 900 got 33-35 MPG.
Saab blew it with the cup holder though, location, functionality, and design-wise.
If you have any advice regarding the engine noise, pleae e-mail me at crowman266@yahoo.com.
Sharp, sporty, rich looking, fast, and takes curves very well. Turns heads too! Gets lots of positive comments.
I highly recommned this car to anyone who drives fast and is image conscious, as it's quick, sporty, and classy looking.
Its not the timing its the damper pulley.
Look out! My 9-3 engine started making the same short term noises. I took it to the dealer to have it checked out and he said there was no noise. Shortly afterwards the engine blew up. A new engine was quoted at almost $8,000. There is an engine sludge problem which is posted on the Internet. When you drive the car some distance, the oil warms up and begins lubricating the parts and the noise goes away, but not before the damage is done. Saab apparently does not back their extended warranty.
If you still have your Saab 9-3 and the engine is running this far after your initial post, I would be surprised.
The Saab 93 SE convertible is a excellent car. Build quality high, comfortable to drive and ride with few problems over the 6 years of ownership. More substantial than many convertibles and a long list of highly desirable equipment. It is a high end car so if you cannot be bothered with issues that come with the luxury and equipment complexity look elsewhere. The engine is smooth and the turbo adds the power when called upon.
The Saab is a pricey car however does not hold its value like a BMW or Audi, that is actually good news. A pre-owned Saab can cost you thousands less than others with a ride and drive that only a very picky and critical person would not like.
The trunk is ample as is the back seat and remember you are not purchasing a sedan. Saab's have some quirks that should not come as a surprise if you do your homework. The so called professional reviews are overly critical of most cars, that is what those people get paid to do. If I took many reviews as gospel I would have never bought my Saab or Mercedes. Research and test drives are required.
I have never regretted purchasing my Saab 9-3 convertible nor saw the need to trade it in on a new or newer one. This is a car that is unique in appearance and a pleasure to drive and own.
What I find most annoying is complaints about problems or maintenance, few cars other than perhaps a Toyota or Honda (and not those either) are trouble free and the cost of repairing those is far from trivial.
In summary the Saab convertible is a gem in all seasons, distinctive and solid. Oh by the way if you are looking for a sports car, then don't bother with a 4 passenger convertible.
"In summary the Saab convertible is a gem in all seasons, distinctive and solid. Oh by the way if you are looking for a sports car, then don't bother with a 4 passenger convertible."
I remember reading an article a couple of years ago that stated Saabs goal was to build a convertible that performed on par with a Porsche when they originally set out to manufacture the first Saab convertible. The truth is the Turbocharged Saab convertibles arguably do perform as well as some of the sports cars from a decade or two ago. No, they are not sports cars in any sense, but they are indeed a fun ride with decent performance.
Note: A Comments RSS Feed is available. New comments appear in the Members Area before the main site