2003 Saab 9-3: doors won't lock, open or latch

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 Aug 20, 2008 · Body · 40,000 miles · CA

Door handles and side body molding are fading abnormally. Door handles are pretty much white in color. They were originally black. This shouldn't happen after only 4 years, especially with a car like a saab (for which you think you are paying for quality).

Filed Sep 12, 2005 · Brakes, Electrical · OH

The lease on this vehicle began on october 6, 2003. It has had multiple electrical issues starting less than 30 days after delivery. Most recently, september 11, 2005. I have been stranded three times and had to have the car towed twice. Each time the onstar did not work because of electrical malfunctions. We no longer have any confidence in this vehicle and if we owned it we would sell it. Problems include but are not limited to: * cd player stopped working and was replaced within first 30 days of lease. * brakes replaced within first 60 days of lease. * onstar computer replaced within first 60 days of lease. * vehicle computer updated within first year of lease. This left me stranded and almost required a tow due to inoperative transmission but, the vehicle eventually shifted into limp mode before the tow truck arrived allowing us to drive it to the dealership. * vehicle computer updated again within first year of lease. * onstar computer repaired again within first year of lease. * door handles faded and replaced within second year * parking break stuck and vehicle required a tow within second year of lease. * engine immobilizer malfunction requiring another tow of the vehicle within second year of lease. We were told that the battery abruptly died. * trip computer must be reset after gas is added in order to show correct distance to empty. * miles between oil changes seem incorrect. We are at 27000 miles and have only had one oil change. The dealership continues to tell us to wait until the computer requests the service.

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 Sep 30, 2004 · Transmission · NY

This is a second complaint and update to 1/1/04 complaint previously submitted. Since then car has been to the dealer 2 additional times for transmission slippage with no resolution. Also car has been in for broken front seat, faulty finish on door handles and dash board, brake squeal, and problems closing sun roof. All problems cured other than transmission slippage and steering alignment. Called saab USA previously whom advised to continue working with the dealer, who can not fix. Transmission slippage can be dangerous when depending on an auto to react a certain way in accident avoidance situations and auto responds differently. In my opinion this problem coupled with all the others is a violation of express warranties of the manufacture. Please investigate this transmission slippage issue as there are multiple complaints on this message board. Thank you.