Faults:

Within the first 18,000 miles the On-star computer needed to be replaced three times, I discontinued service so I don't know if it works now.

At around 14,000 miles my steering wheel became loose and the steering column was replaced.

At about 15,000 miles the drivers window would not stay in the closed position, the dealer replaced something in the door and now it just rattles.

At about 30,000 miles my sunroof was not closing properly and I am waiting for parts for that still.

At 32,000 miles the left rear door would not lock electrically.

At about 33,000 miles the left rear window stopped working as well they replaced a computed for that issue.

At about 34,000 miles the passenger seat would not move in any direction, which required another computer to be replaced.

Around 35,000 miles my front wheel bearings needed to be replaced.

I have been in the dealer three times for oil consumption, At 35,000 miles I am waiting for a new engine to come in so they can replace that.

While I am waiting on my engine at 35k and some change I noticed that my car is making front end noise when I turn It sounds like a ball joint, but I have not had that looked at yet.

General Comments:

This car is a fantastic driving machine, I just wish I didn't have to visit the dealer at least once a month.

SAAB customer service is great the people are courteous and helpful, I however would rather not know them so well.

SAAB electrical parts are terrible it is an electrical nightmare.

I am so glad I have a warranty because the dealer probably puts about $500. a month in parts alone in just my car and also pays someone to do it.

I enjoy the 9-5 as well I seem to drive the loaner almost as much as my own.

Faults:

The car was delivered to me missing the rubber seals inside both rear door openings - strange that this was missed at the factory and by the dealer, but I failed to notice it also at first.

There was also a problem with the Distance to Empty function after a few months, which was supposed to have been fixed via a software update. It nevertheless returns every 3-4 months, but I have learned that all I have to do to clear it is perform a full reset of the trip computer to fix this.

In very cold temperatures (-20C and below) the CD player does not work properly until the car warms up (I plan to have it replaced next winter).

The rear centre lap belt became jammed and had to be replaced twice during the car's first year.

The plastic on the hood (bonnet) badge peeled off, but this, like everything else, was fixed promptly by the dealer and was covered under warranty.

General Comments:

Despite these problems I believe this is a very solid car. My previous car was an 87 SAAB 900S and although I loved that old car, the new one is infinitely superior is terms of handling and comfort. My 9-3 only has the 2.0t engine, but at 175 HP I can still accelerate as fast as I’ve ever needed to. I am a tall guy and there is plenty of leg room and adjustability (at least in the front – the rear seat could use a few more cm of leg room). And the electronics are sophisticated, but fairly well thought out. My car came with OnStar installed, including the hands free cell phone and I am really impressed with how well it is integrated with the Radio/CD.

When compared to my friend’s similarly priced BMW 325, my 9-3 Linear comes out way ahead in power, style and value. And another friend’s negative experiences with his ‘03 Infinity G35 has made me appreciate my 9-3 and my Toronto SAAB dealer all the more.