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Originally Posted by Spinny
I have a 1999 9-3 Convt. I searched for quite a while, finally deciding on the 1999, not because of the year but mileage. I was able to find one with 26k. I would have prefered the 2000/2001 but the price difference to me did not make sense. Now for your questions, what to look for.
Maintanance on these cars is very important, rather than looking for a specific year, look for the best car the differences are minor for 2000/2001. I would recommend verifying that the scheduled maint has been done and documented.
Be sure that the top performs without hesitation and locks frimly with no rattles. Watch the exhaust, any sign of blue or grey smoke, even for a short time may mean a turbo on the way out.
I would also recommend the five speed, more fun, but the auto works well. here are areas that have a high failure rate for the car:
Pullys- for the serpintine belt
DI cassette (direct ignition) this fails pretty often and at a dealer is about a 700.00 repair
A/C compressor, I have had two SAAB cont and this failed on both, so make sure that it is free of leaks and no vibration when engaged.
I would pay the extra for an extended warranty, and use only mobil 1 oil.
hope this helps, let me know if you have any specific questions. Shop around, prices vary greatly. I was able to get my 99 se with 26k 5sp for 16,900 after some dealing (sticker was 21,000)
spinny
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Thank you spinny, for the info.
Some questions that I have are;
The closest dealer located to me would be Tulsa,Ok, And the drive would about and 1hour and 1/2. If the car broke down around my town, would they send a wreaker and come and pick the car up? Or would I have to get the car towed over to Tulsa? If the car is still under warranty.
If I found a Saab at another dealer, farther than I wanted to drive, or in another state,would they send it to the closest dealer to me? Or do they even do that?
How expensive are the parts on fixing a Saab? I have heard they are very costly.
And is insurance very expensive on a convertable, and being a Saab?
Honestly, I want to find a Saab 9-3 SE '01 model w/ only about 30,000 to 40,000 miles and I don't want to spend over $18,000 to 20,000. Do you think this is possible?
I have been searching the web, and the large newspapers(like Dallas, Tulsa, Atlanta, Austin) But nothing seems to be in that price range.
Overall, are you happy w/ your decision on purshasing the Saab?
Thank you again,for your info.
les24