2005 Saab 9-3: petrol or diesel?
Petrol, diesel and hybrid versions go wrong in different ways, so each has its own figures from the MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Pick the one you’re looking at: the fuel is on the logbook and in the car’s MOT history.
Hybrid versions had too few MOTs for figures of their own, or weren’t sold.
Known faults on every 2005 Saab 9-3
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- Convertible
Hood motors and leaks (convertible)
The electric hood motors can be damaged if the hood has been operated by hand. Check for rips, leaks and whistling at speed.
At the viewing: Raise and lower the hood a couple of times and look for leaks.
Source: RAC: Saab 9-3 Convertible (2003-2012) used car review
- Powerful versions
Fast front tyre wear (powerful versions)
Hard driving can wear out the front tyres in about 5,000 miles.
At the viewing: Check the front tyre tread.
Source: RAC: Saab 9-3 Convertible (2003-2012) used car review
Looking at a Saab 9-3?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the Saab 9-3 compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 595 | Suspension 29% |
| 2011 | 7,279 | Suspension 40% |
| 2010 | 10,518 | Suspension 41% |
| 2009 | 11,188 | Suspension 40% |
| 2008 | 17,835 | Suspension 41% |
| 2007 | 20,904 | Suspension 42% |
| 2006 | 16,596 | Suspension 45% |
| 2004 | 6,916 | Suspension 46% |
| 2003 | 2,917 | Suspension 44% |
| 2002 | 2,517 | Brakes 36% |
| 2001 | 2,321 | Brakes 35% |
| 2000 | 2,036 | Brakes 35% |
| 1999 | 1,595 | Brakes 33% |
| 1998 | 892 | Brakes 38% |