Check a VIN

2004 Saab 9-3 used buying checklist

What to check on a used 2004 Saab 9-3 before you pay, based on what owners report, its recalls and the repairs the maker covers. Print it and take it to the test drive.

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

  • Seat belt won't latch or retract57 owner complaints, usually around 90,800 miles, owners paid about $532

    Pull every seat belt out fully and make sure it retracts and latches.

  • Broken coil spring40 owner complaints, usually around 64,000 miles, owners paid about $700

    Drive over bumps and listen for clunks or rattles. Look for uneven tire wear.

  • Tire blowout or tread separation12 owner complaints, usually around 72,000 miles

    Check the tire age (the DOT date on the sidewall), the tread depth and any uneven wear.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

Before you pay

  • Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
  • Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
  • Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
  • Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
  • Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.

See every 2004 Saab 9-3 problem

VIN decoder

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Buying a used 2004 Saab 9-3?

Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.

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