9-3:query

which 9-3 variant is yours ?

on the OG petrols the stat can be changed with minimal coolant loss and the system is self bleeding - eventually.

again, if an OG, not all had door speakers although the cabling and connectors will be present. from memory i think it was audio system 3 that came with all the bits.

ignore all the above if yours is a NG

sorry - i was enquiring about the model range. Old Generation with the B2*5 engines (98-02ish, 3 or 5 door hatch, 205bhp as Aero) or New Generation with the B207 engine (02 onwards, 4 door saloon, 210bhp as Aero)

I'm not much help then I'm afraid.

i believe the amp problem is quite well known - moisture ingress is the usual culprit. Iirc its AMP1 that runs the door speakers and that it doesnt need marrying to the car (but thats anecdotal, never had one myself).

Stat seems well hidden on the B207 but a good extension bar will reach the housing bolts easily enough. replacement doesnt need a total drain down - its a bog standard bi-metallic wax stat under a plastic cover and its high up on the engine so you wont lose much coolant (but again, not done the job myself, just seen an engine out of a car)

Edit - just had a look at the parts manual. it looks like theres enough flexibility in the hose to negate the need to remove it, this reducing coolant loss. I reckon you could undo the housing and push it out of the way with the hose still attached whilst you drop in the new stat.