2003 SAAB 3-Sep

Bought 2003 9-3 SE convertible on Dec 3, drove to near Athens, NY ( about 500 miles) engine rattled and stalled. Waiting for estimate to rebuild engine. I have since become aware of sludge/engine design problems in this engine.

We own a 2003 SAAB 9-3 ARC 4 door sports sedan. We purchased it on 10/12/06 form Twin Pines Auto Group in Ephrata, PA. Upon purchase the car had 44,873 miles. Today the car has 57,000 miles. The engine and turbo was diagnosed as destroyed by M.S. Horst, a local mechanic, due to oil sludge.I believe this type of failure is unreasonable for this number of miles.I have maintenance records for oil changes at 44,000, 48,000, and 54,000 miles. I have contacted SAAB customer service (several times) and 2 SAAB dealers. Although they tell me they can access records to see the maintenance done by the first owner, they are not willing to provide me the information.SAAB announced a “Oil Sludge Special Policy” for similar problems in 2005. The SAAB dealer tells me my car’s engine does not qualify.There are numerous other similar complaints on this site. Thank-you for any assistance you can provide.

The vehicle was bought new with about 280 miles. From the beginning the lights will short out and I had to contnously take the car in or replace them myself. The fuel pump had to be replaced. The power windows and sunroof do not work properly (do not close). The entire electrical wiring under the car had to be replaced. It has been in the shop now for 37 days. The stability traction control does not work along with the radio and Onstar. I can take the key out of the ignition and the car continues to run. Seat belts do not recoil to provide safety. I am not sure what I can do. SAAB USA has refused to help me. Their legal team has stated that they will not take the vehicle back. Operators will not let me speak with the person processing my complaint. I even wrote to the President of SAAB USA and I continue to not receive any help from SAAB USA.

Car “shut off” while I was driving down the middle lane of I-95 South. Was informed by dealer that they’ve never heard of any engine problems, that Saab Cars would take care of getting the warranty to cover the expense. My claim was denied. When had engine fixed, was told the “caps and bolts” we never removed from engine, according to this mechanic the car was never investigated. This info was added to our receipt in case we decide to go to small claims court. Which we may.