1999 Saab 9-3 electrical problems

Filed Oct 2, 2009 · Electrical · 128,800 miles · VA

For my 1999 saab 9-3, base engine, I replaced the direct ignition cassette, at 128,800 miles on the odometer. The part alone was $488 and the total installation cost and parts (including a hose and four spark plugs) was $760. Model years 2000 through 2002 were recalled for this part.

Filed Mar 2, 2009 · Airbags, Electrical · 138,000 miles · NH

Tl*the contact owns a 1999 saab 9-3. While driving approximately 55 MPH in the snow, the driver's side air bag suddenly deployed without an impact or crash occurring. There were no injuries. Later that day, the air bag indicator illuminated. Her mechanic stated that the air bags would not function properly and ensure maximum protection in the event of a crash. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic for diagnostic testing and the wiring was determined to be the cause of the failure. The manufacturer would not assist because the vehicle was no longer under warranty. The current mileage was approximately 141,000 and failure mileage was approximately 138,000.

Filed May 1, 2008 · Electrical · 118,356 miles · CT

Tl*the contact owns a 1999 saab 9-3. The contact attempted to start his vehicle, but was unsuccessful. The vehicle cranked, but he received no spark. He attempted to change the fuel pump, which did not repair the failure. He also removed the spark plug wires and noticed that various parts were cracked underneath the ignition. A junkyard mechanic stated that the ignition was the cause of the malfunction. The contact discovered the federal safety agency campaign id number 05v399000 (electrical system:ignition:module), which pertained to the 2000-2002 saab 9-3's. The dealer stated that the repair would cost $464. The failure mileage was 118,356.

Filed Feb 11, 2007 · Electrical · 111,500 miles · RI

I have a 1999 saab 9-3 with manual climate control. The blower switch was erratic for a few weeks (on/off position shifted) but last night during a short journey the blower would not turn off and a bad odor became present in the cabin. This morning I investigated and found that the blower switch and wiring connector and wires have melted. It is likely that if the journey had been longer a fire would have resulted. The switch and connector and wires need to be replaced, and the reason for the blower switch erratic behavior needs to be investigated.

Filed Sep 15, 2006 · Electrical · 68,618 miles · WI

While driving at freeway speeds for about 20 minutes, my 1999 saab 9-3 experienced a loss of power and the engine stopped running. There was no warning of a probem until a single "clunking noise" was detected and then there was no power in 5th or 4th gear. By the time I downshifted to 3rd gear, the engine had stalled and the check engine, battery/alternator, and oil pressure warning lights lit. The car was not able to be resarted. I was able to bring the car to the distress lane and summon help (911). The car needed to be towed for repairs. The local saab dealer determined the ignition discharge module (idm) had failed (burned up). The dealer also informed me of a recent recall (I believe it's 05v‑399) for the 2000 - 2002 model years and that perhaps the idm on my car had a similar defect. The dealer installed a new idm (replacement part 55-561-132) and 4 new spark plugs which had been fouled from my repeated efforts to restart the car. I did not receive old parts back.

Filed Sep 15, 2006 · Electrical, Engine · 100,788 miles · MA

Dt*: the contact stated the vehicle stalled while driving 45-50 MPH on a snow covered highway. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who determined the recognition cassette module failed. The dealership was not notified. There were no prior problems with the vehicle. The check engine light illuminated at the time of the incident. Updated 11/3/2006 - on 11/24/05 the vehicle's direct ignition cassette failed without warning which caused the vehicle to stall while being driven in the snow. After replacement of the direct ignition cassette the repair facility also had to replace two oxygen sensors and the catalytic converter. The technician said it was possible that raw fuel damaged the catalytic converter during the initial failure of the direct ignition cassette.

Filed Aug 18, 2006 · Electrical · 95,700 miles · CA

Direct ignition cassette failed on my 1999 saab 9-3. A recall has been issued for 2000-2002 saab 9-3 and I feel this recall should include the '99 model as well because this part has a less than reasonable life.

Filed Aug 4, 2006 · Electrical · 64,830 miles · NY

The direct ignition failed on my 1999 saab 93. It is not covered under the recall. The "service engine soon" light came on which alerted us to the problem. My authorized saab mechanic informed me that it was the wisest course to replace this faulty part before it failed completely. The cost to do so $500 out of my own pocket to replace this inherently faulty part.

Filed May 24, 2006 · Electrical · 60,749 miles · CA

1999 saab 9-3 ignition cassette failure.

Filed Mar 28, 2006 · Electrical · 15,145 miles · CA

I believe my 1999 saab 9-3 should have been included in recent saab ignition module recalls, my ignition module is no different than the 2000 models, the recent failure of this part involves safety factors same as the 2000 models, replacement cost is over 400.00 and should be reimbursed.