Saab 9-3 Hatchback (1998 - 2002) 2.2 TiD SE 5d (2001/X) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Classy and refined person. Man about town.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Friends are impressed by it. Wife hates it. Its performance / drive makes her sick.
Would you buy this car again and why?
No - too many problems. I have to rely on the franchise to sort out engine management faults at a premium cost.
What are you likely to buy next?
Honda CRV , Jaguar X-Type or Volvo XC90
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£6,000
When did you buy the car?
April 2005
Did you get a good deal and why?
Yes- Negotiated hard to get a good deal for my previous car as a part exchange.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
The car had style and panache and was very responsive
What was the dealer like?
Very accommodating
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
It is still a lovely drive. Very responsive.
What's it like to park?
Very easy to park. However, you have to park it down hill otherwise you will not be able to start it the next morning.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Engine recirculation valve went within six months of purchasing the car. It as been the plague of my enjoyment. Apparently, the Saab cannot cope with current dirty diesel. I have to regularly add engine cleaner solutions to the fuel to stop the build of carbon deposits. The alternative is sending it to the dealer to sort out the Engine Management Module - at a cost of £400. You also have to park the car down hill. Apparently, there is an engine block fault that lets air in creating an airlock. The digital display packed in within a year of having it. So I cannot read the engine management information.
What's most practical about your car?
It is still a lovely drive
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Engine Management information.
