MotorDeets

Saab 9-3 Convertible problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every 9-3 Convertible from 1999 to 2002: 61 owner complaints and 3 recalls across 4 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2001 (24), 1999 (16), 2000 (12). Best fuel economy: 24 mpg combined (2002).

Saab 9-3 Convertible
Photo: DieselFordMondeo · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Electrical16
Airbags10
Fuel system8
Seat belts6
Engine & cooling6
Transmission & drivetrain5
Wheels3
Tires3

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
199901621
200011222
200112422
20021924

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the Saab 9-3 Convertible.

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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

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FAQ

What is the worst year for the Saab 9-3 Convertible?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2001 (24), 1999 (16), 2000 (12).

How many recalls has the Saab 9-3 Convertible had?

Across 1999–2002, NHTSA lists 3 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).