2003 Saab 9-3: won't start

Filed Nov 18, 2011 · Electrical · 90,000 miles · FL

The saab will intermittently fail to start. When the key is turned in the ignition, all electrical components operate as designed, however the car will not turn over. This is not a battery or starter problem. The car does not make any cranking sounds or starter clicks. Rather, there is no engine turn over at all. After waiting for 30 - 60 minutes, the car will start as if there was no problem whatever. The issue appears to be the neutral safety switch. There is no electronic diagnostic test for this problem. The problem is not "recreatable." it is 100% unpredictable as to when it will occur. A search of the internet for "saab 9-3 (or s900) intermittent start" will return thousands of posts from drivers describing the exact same problem. Fixes include pouring water or snow on top of the nss, drilling a hole in the dashboard and running a by-pass switch to the starter, and replacing the nss. Dealership will try to replace starters, batteries, ect and claim they have not heard of the nss problem.

Filed Oct 14, 2008 · Electrical · 62,000 miles · CA

Was on my way to repair shop for an onstar malfunction which knocked out my entire sound system, including warning buzzers, etc....while on the freeway I thought I had been invaded by aliens the car could barley drive then all the warning lights and malfunction lights started flashing on my computer screen im lucky it didn't cause an accident I could not control the car I could not roll down the window, could not get the car from drive to park, could not steer, shut it off and it wouldn't start again without a jump. Battery had been replaced no more then 6 months prior. It apparently was the alternator. It is a hazard when it malfunctions due to no control of the car. I have had more problems with this car for 62,000 it shouldn't have so many breakdowns and malfunctions I have owned it for a little over a year and have had many different malfunctions ie. Gear box malfunction, transmission malfunction, temp malfunction, airbag malfunction and the latest onstar malfunction which has affected my entire sound system, the cd player had to be replaced the amp went bad had to have a new thermostat the window arm had to be replaced (driving and the window just fell into the door I am surprised it didn't shatter, the saab logo on the trunk lost all the color, the door handles are peeling and fading as well as the interior parts. Battery died, ashtray broke had to have replaced broke again but no warranty and too much to replace. The brake caliper had to be replaced brake pads worn out too soon, tire tread worn before its time. Everytime part was needed it had to be ordered way overpriced took over a week to get parts on top of that shipping and handling charges apply. This car is unreliable deeming it unsafe as far as I am concerned still owe 9,000 but with all problems not worth a dime. I have disabled people in car alot can't be sure about their safety not good and now no onstar not upgradeable, even still onstar malfunction light is on no sound system.

Filed Mar 13, 2007 · Electrical · 61,000 miles · GA

Wednesday march 3, 2007, my 2003 saab 9-3 linear sports sedan (automatic transmission) with 61,000 miles on the odometer was at a traffic light waiting to switch from red to green. Once the light turned green, I depressed the accelerator to proceed across the intersection. The initially accelerated to 20 MPH and ceased to accelerate. I noticed that I was slowing down and steering had become heavy, I glanced at the tachometer and it showed that the engine had shut down but the electrical systems were functioning. I coasted into a parking lot and attempted to restart the engine. The engine would not start for over 15 minutes. The electrical system was running, onboard diagnostics showed ok, but the starter would not engage. After the interval of no starts, the car started. The car was brought to the dealership and diagnostic codes indicated that the ECM needed to be reprogrammed. Dealer provided no real explanation for failure. Within 3 week period, vehicle had been in for fuel system failure and replacement. Prior to that repair the car had 60k service performed on 12/13/07. The vehicle is current on all repairs required by prior recalls.

Filed Jul 6, 2006 · Brakes, Electrical · 33,000 miles · NY

Dt*: the caller stated, the ignition switch would not start the vehicle. When the vehicle was towed to the dealership, the battery was replaced. However, nothing was done about the rusted wiring to the ignition. The manufacturer was contacted by a letter. The emergency brake was locked and would not release, the horn did not work, the low head beam failed. The tires were defective, the alarm would sound without warning. Updated 07/25/06.

Filed Jun 20, 2005 · Acceleration, Body · 32,000 miles · CA

My saab has had a litany of problems since I have owned the car. It all started with little items. Ignition wouldn't start the car. Head lights burnt out. Dash peeling, door handles discoloring, emergency brake getting stuck and being able to operate my car. Engine warning light because my gas cap wasn't on correct. Steering wheel locking while I was driving. Wheel lock light remaining on while I was driving. Brakes replaced due to factory retro fit. Seat belts being recalled. Computer constantly needing to be replaced so the car would function. Electronic key failing so I couldn't start my car. My car is a 5 speed and the shifter handle has an continues to come off in my hand. A minimum of 3 fuses needing to be replaced. The dash board goes blank at times showing no functions of the car. Window wouldn't go up or down and required the regulator to be replaced. Erractic idle. Service engine light comes on but, dealer doesn't know why. Brakes needed to be replaced at 30,000 miles and rotors too.

Filed Oct 21, 2003 · Engine · NY

My 2003 saab 9-3 has stalled 3 times in traffic. Took it to the dealer and they came up with nothing. Car is in shop right now and will see if anything is found but I doubt it. Saab customer care is oblivious to problem. This is a potentially life threatening problem. Seems to happen while cruising in traffic at speed under 30 MPH. Car completely locks up and will not start until pulled off the road, turned off and turned on again.