2000 SAAB 9-3 SE review from North America

SID had a few pixels go out at 75K miles (replaced under warranty). Everything else is maintenance stuff (front brakes at 75K, etc.).

I'm surprised to see so many negatives here. But then again, I suppose people who have had bad experiences are more likely to post here than people who aren't having problems at all. I am one of the people who have had little to no problems and have had fine dealer service.

Owning a Saab, I've learned:

The 2.0 turbo motor is a delight. MUCH more powerful and refined than I thought it would be.

The seats are sublimely comfortable. Not particularly big-bolstered, but downright wonderful.

The manual transmission is just as engaging as was the gearbox on my VW Corrado SLC or 94 Twin Turbo 300ZX. May not be on par with a Honda or BMW, but it is very rewarding and you'll never miss a gear.

Don't go to the dealer if you don't have to. Repairs and maintenance is SO much cheaper if you just go to the eccentric Euro-only shop down the way which has tons of experience with these cars.

I bought mine used. I bought my particular Saab because the previous owner did every scheduled maintenance and changed the friggin' oil every time he should. He had receipts to back this all up. And you know what? The car is still perfect just as it is about to hit 100,000 miles. My dad's 95 Camry XLE V6 (he bought it new) has had more problems (engine light, brake light, shocks) than my Saab ever has.

Plus, the quality of the leather in the Saab versus leather from 1993 VW, 1994 Nissan, or 1995 Toyota is superior. The leather really reacts the way real leather should when fine balsam is applied (I used to use Lexol which was okay, but a fine balsam for shoe leather is just so much better in my opinion).

I could go on and on. My boss had a Honda Accord which had endless problems. Check your Saab before you buy used. Apparently like other cars, there are bad Saabs and there are good Saabs.