Recalls: Saab Mk.1 9-3
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Saab Mk.1 9-3
- In October 1999, a recall was issued for three-door Saab 9-3 vehicles with manually adjusted seats. In these vehicles, the easy-entry feature could result in the front seats not locking in the fore/aft positions. The affected vehicles had identification numbers in the range W2050001 to W2069660 and X2000001 to X2029881 (PRA 1999/4096).
- In December 1999, a recall was issued for Saab Mk.1 9-3 vehicles to replace the spare wheel label – located on the B-pillar – because it contained incorrect tyre information (PRA 1999/4173).
- In December 1999, a recall was issued for Saab 9-3 Viggen editions due to a warning label not being fitted to these vehicles – the label specifies the correct type of brake fluid for the braking system (PRA 2000/4202).
- In October 2001, a recall was issued for 2002 model year Saab 9-3 vehicles. In these vehicles, the tie-rod end nuts may not have been tightened sufficiently during production – should the nut come loose, this could affect steering capabilities (PRA 2001/5024).
- In May 2002, a recall was issued for 2002 model year Saab 9-3 vehicles. Due to a problem with the chromating process, the front brake caliper piston may release hydrogen gas into the brake system – this could result in reduced or lost braking capabilities (PRA 2002/5392).
- In April 2004, a recall was issued for Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured between 1998 and 2003. In these vehicles, two nuts were deleted and – where a tow bar has been fitted – heavy trailer loads may distort and weaken the rear bumper bar to which the tow bar is fitted (PRA 2004/6945).
Problems and faults: Saab Mk.1 9-3 Liftback
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
Problems and faults: Saab Mk.1 9-3
- Regular oil changes – including flushing the old oil, draining the oil from the sump plug and replacing the filter – are essential for the continued operation of the turbocharger and timing chains. Fully synthetic oil is recommended for the turbocharged engines.
- The air conditioning compressor may fail to engage or disengage due to a faulty thermo contact – this is now available separately from the compressor.
- The air conditioning controls are susceptible to breaking.
- If the brake-fluid reservoir cap is not installed properly, fluid can be sucked out of the reservoir through the cap’s check valve.
- The rear wiper may become loose unless thread-locking compound is applied to the nut which secures it.
