Discussion
So I thought I'd make a thread about my other car finally, my Saab 9-3.
I bought this car to use for occasional work trips and also to have something that's close to a polar opposite of the TVR! These cars are a great bargain buy at the moment and will only get cheaper. Basically think of a posh Vectra that's refined and fast (ish) in a straight line. It's by far the cheapest 6 cylinder turbo petrol I know of anyway.
Due to needing a car in a short time period, I bought what is perhaps not the best example in the world with virtually non-existent service history. It turned out to be OK-ish, with some work needed. It's also the Anniversary edition which means it gets some fancy Saab embossed seats, wheels and a Bose sound system.
Anyway, here it is!
After having a good look round the car I found it to be in reasonable condition, but with some bizarre mods done. More on that later. The A/C compressor was noisy and needed doing, along with some servicing work and minor repairs.
Of more concern was the amount of rust on the car. I had the garage I bought it from repair the arches on the back as some rust was bubbling through, however underneath it is really quite surprisingly poor for a 2007 car. It's mainly the rear subframe and not the body, but still. When I first looked under the car it was covered in mud underneath, almost like someone had taken it green laning?!
I dread the day when this has to come off:
A/C compressor being done, I went for a used item as they were silly cheap. Fingers crossed it works OK, I have not had it re-gassed yet.
Fixing some little issues I noticed around the car:
These hard plastic lines are rubbish and always break with age. Previous owner fixed with hosepipe, don't know what else I expected
Self explanatory:
Pollen filter got replaced, these always get forgotten about:
Then I drove the car for a few months, in which time it developed a plethora of electrical issues!
The first thing that went wrong was the wiper jets, they would work intermittently but only about 1 in 5 times. Exactly 1 in 5 times. hmm.
Had a look at the wiring as the garage mentioned they had "fixed" the washer jets. Turns out the mechanic had got the plugs for the headlight washers and screen washers the wrong way round, then got confused and tried to short them out, but the connectors he used were crap and didn't even go through the insulation on the wires. This is why I work on my own cars!
I mentioned some weird mods earlier. Let me explain that a bit more. The previous owner had installed hidden switches inside the car. One of these was for front parking sensors, which didn't work (why would you need them anyway?). For the other switch, the previous owner had put green LEDs around the interior of the car. Everywhere. I must have removed 50 of these bloody things from under the dash, under the seats, behind the cigarette lighter.
I also found a dashcam fitted in the car which I removed, but there was the added bonus of the old footage from the previous owner and some *interesting* driving, including him trying to race an Audi A3 and losing quite convincingly
I ripped out all the wiring, which as usual was bodged in and nothing done properly. They did fit a fuse though, amazingly!
Ah yes, soldered wires onto a 12V cigarette plug covered with electrical tape, great work!
Then the cruise control kept cutting out randomly, which it still does sometimes. Need to get someone with a Tech 2 to get some codes for me. I cleaned the contacts on the switch and it seemed to help:
More broken pipes:
Also I have no pictures of these, but I also replaced the outside temperature sensor (it failed) and the heated seat element. I also got the rubbish Avon tyres swapped for PS4s all round, which results in rather more grip than the chassis can cope with
I also tried to fix what I interpreted as spongy brakes, but was basically told by the Saab forum "they're all like that". Oh well! I have been spoiled with braided lines on my last couple of cars I suppose.
Plans are:
- Fix wheel balance issue (I think the guy who installed the tyres buggered up balancing them)
- A/C need re-gassing and leak checking
- Fix Fuel evap system (when filling up the pump cuts out constantly)
- Replace some dodgy looking heater hoses, and do the water pump at the same time
- Take it to be mapped by Aura Tuning who can get the car to 320BHP and 400+lbft, which is far more than the open diff FWD can cope with. It should also be hilarious
- Fit 1.9tdi badge and irritate Audis/the local barryboys
I bought this car to use for occasional work trips and also to have something that's close to a polar opposite of the TVR! These cars are a great bargain buy at the moment and will only get cheaper. Basically think of a posh Vectra that's refined and fast (ish) in a straight line. It's by far the cheapest 6 cylinder turbo petrol I know of anyway.
Due to needing a car in a short time period, I bought what is perhaps not the best example in the world with virtually non-existent service history. It turned out to be OK-ish, with some work needed. It's also the Anniversary edition which means it gets some fancy Saab embossed seats, wheels and a Bose sound system.
Anyway, here it is!
After having a good look round the car I found it to be in reasonable condition, but with some bizarre mods done. More on that later. The A/C compressor was noisy and needed doing, along with some servicing work and minor repairs.
Of more concern was the amount of rust on the car. I had the garage I bought it from repair the arches on the back as some rust was bubbling through, however underneath it is really quite surprisingly poor for a 2007 car. It's mainly the rear subframe and not the body, but still. When I first looked under the car it was covered in mud underneath, almost like someone had taken it green laning?!
I dread the day when this has to come off:
A/C compressor being done, I went for a used item as they were silly cheap. Fingers crossed it works OK, I have not had it re-gassed yet.
Fixing some little issues I noticed around the car:
These hard plastic lines are rubbish and always break with age. Previous owner fixed with hosepipe, don't know what else I expected
Self explanatory:
Pollen filter got replaced, these always get forgotten about:
Then I drove the car for a few months, in which time it developed a plethora of electrical issues!
The first thing that went wrong was the wiper jets, they would work intermittently but only about 1 in 5 times. Exactly 1 in 5 times. hmm.
Had a look at the wiring as the garage mentioned they had "fixed" the washer jets. Turns out the mechanic had got the plugs for the headlight washers and screen washers the wrong way round, then got confused and tried to short them out, but the connectors he used were crap and didn't even go through the insulation on the wires. This is why I work on my own cars!
I mentioned some weird mods earlier. Let me explain that a bit more. The previous owner had installed hidden switches inside the car. One of these was for front parking sensors, which didn't work (why would you need them anyway?). For the other switch, the previous owner had put green LEDs around the interior of the car. Everywhere. I must have removed 50 of these bloody things from under the dash, under the seats, behind the cigarette lighter.
I also found a dashcam fitted in the car which I removed, but there was the added bonus of the old footage from the previous owner and some *interesting* driving, including him trying to race an Audi A3 and losing quite convincingly
I ripped out all the wiring, which as usual was bodged in and nothing done properly. They did fit a fuse though, amazingly!
Ah yes, soldered wires onto a 12V cigarette plug covered with electrical tape, great work!
Then the cruise control kept cutting out randomly, which it still does sometimes. Need to get someone with a Tech 2 to get some codes for me. I cleaned the contacts on the switch and it seemed to help:
More broken pipes:
Also I have no pictures of these, but I also replaced the outside temperature sensor (it failed) and the heated seat element. I also got the rubbish Avon tyres swapped for PS4s all round, which results in rather more grip than the chassis can cope with
I also tried to fix what I interpreted as spongy brakes, but was basically told by the Saab forum "they're all like that". Oh well! I have been spoiled with braided lines on my last couple of cars I suppose.
Plans are:
- Fix wheel balance issue (I think the guy who installed the tyres buggered up balancing them)
- A/C need re-gassing and leak checking
- Fix Fuel evap system (when filling up the pump cuts out constantly)
- Replace some dodgy looking heater hoses, and do the water pump at the same time
- Take it to be mapped by Aura Tuning who can get the car to 320BHP and 400+lbft, which is far more than the open diff FWD can cope with. It should also be hilarious
- Fit 1.9tdi badge and irritate Audis/the local barryboys
bluezedd said:
Good thread.
I echo your experience with these being a bit of a rot bucket, and my rear arches are going big time on my 2007 car. I don't see the point in sorting them though in my car and I'm probably better running it until it dies. The arches are starting to go on my 2010 one too, but it's the very start of it.
The cruise control cutting out might be the clutch or brake switch killing it, so might be worth a look.
A cheap alternative to tech 2 is opcom/vauxcom which is what I use. It can't do all the programming of headunits etc though, but good for reading codes from all the modules etc.
Check the drain bung under the scuttle panel if you haven't already. It takes a couple of minutes. These have a habit of getting clogged up with leaves, then letting water into the car on the passenger side, and possibly damaging your heater fan.
I always enjoy removing crappy mods like that wiring/LED setup the previous owner had. A lot of the time I've done similar, it's been knackered rusted out spade connectors and burnt wiring and other nonsense.
Thanks blue, that's a shame as I had no idea these cars were prone to rust. With the cruise control, I forgot to add I already checked the brake pedal switch and that's all fine so I'm leaning towards a throttle body issue.I echo your experience with these being a bit of a rot bucket, and my rear arches are going big time on my 2007 car. I don't see the point in sorting them though in my car and I'm probably better running it until it dies. The arches are starting to go on my 2010 one too, but it's the very start of it.
The cruise control cutting out might be the clutch or brake switch killing it, so might be worth a look.
A cheap alternative to tech 2 is opcom/vauxcom which is what I use. It can't do all the programming of headunits etc though, but good for reading codes from all the modules etc.
Check the drain bung under the scuttle panel if you haven't already. It takes a couple of minutes. These have a habit of getting clogged up with leaves, then letting water into the car on the passenger side, and possibly damaging your heater fan.
I always enjoy removing crappy mods like that wiring/LED setup the previous owner had. A lot of the time I've done similar, it's been knackered rusted out spade connectors and burnt wiring and other nonsense.
Edited by bluezedd on Friday 13th December 16:32
I had no idea opcom could be used, I will get that downloaded onto my laptop. I will also check the drain thanks for the tips!
I always hate it when people try to do wiring on cars, I've never seen a DIY install done properly.
DailyHack said:
Was looking at these a few months back, still have a SAAB itch, but was surprised by how many had "Severe subframe corrosion" on the MOT history check, very concerning for 2010/11 cars, the years I was looking at, seems they have always had the issue...shame as I really like them.
If you're handy with the spanners, subframes from a Vectra can be had very cheaply on eBay (as can most parts for these cars). I believe they are the same as the Saab ones. If the body starts to rot however then that's more worrying! I think you’ll be in safe hands with Aura 
He’s getting some really nice results.
I’m looking to get another in a few months, just had word today mines been stripped of all its go faster parts so everything’s boxed up ready to go in the next car
I’m taking it straight to Aura with a boot full of parts to fit and probbaly go for one if his turbo upgrades, just hit it in all one go.
Tempted to get an Auto but I’ve got the quaife fitted in my old box so it’s a shame not to use it
He’s getting some really nice results. I’m looking to get another in a few months, just had word today mines been stripped of all its go faster parts so everything’s boxed up ready to go in the next car
I’m taking it straight to Aura with a boot full of parts to fit and probbaly go for one if his turbo upgrades, just hit it in all one go.Tempted to get an Auto but I’ve got the quaife fitted in my old box so it’s a shame not to use it
griffin dai said:
I think you’ll be in safe hands with Aura He’s getting some really nice results.
I’m looking to get another in a few months, just had word today mines been stripped of all its go faster parts so everything’s boxed up ready to go in the next car I’m taking it straight to Aura with a boot full of parts to fit and probbaly go for one if his turbo upgrades, just hit it in all one go.
Tempted to get an Auto but I’ve got the quaife fitted in my old box so it’s a shame not to use it
Hello griffin dai, I think you helped me get a discount on a CG clutch some years ago but no idea if you'd remember. I used to have a manual one of these years ago which I bought after reading about your old car, mine also had a JZW map but I swapped it for an MR2 Turbo before it blew up (used to misfire on boost quite a bit). He’s getting some really nice results. I’m looking to get another in a few months, just had word today mines been stripped of all its go faster parts so everything’s boxed up ready to go in the next car
I’m taking it straight to Aura with a boot full of parts to fit and probbaly go for one if his turbo upgrades, just hit it in all one go.Tempted to get an Auto but I’ve got the quaife fitted in my old box so it’s a shame not to use it
I can't wait to get it mapped, Aura is a bit pricey but like you say he's got better results than anyone else. I got a quote from him for the 430R I think but decided to get the chassis done on my TVR instead.
Keep the manual, I just fancied an auto for a change! Those F40 boxes are cheap as chips if it blows up as an added bonus.
griffin dai said:
Are you on UKSaabs? Maybe someone local to you with a Tech2 on there.
It’s worth joining anyway, tons of knowledge on there
I am indeed! I will give this opcom software a try first and see if I can get that to work. Already got some useful advice about brakes/mapping from there. It’s worth joining anyway, tons of knowledge on there
Ah great!! I’m glad a few went for it, a couple of VXR owners bought them aswel, that was a fair bit of hassle getting it sorted, mine got sent back and refitted twice until it was done right, £650 for the kit was a great price though. Did you go for the 666 or 777 kit?
How much was the Aura turbo? I’ve emailed them but no reply, he’s got a few different options now, when I was looking for mine there was only really the Insignia 18t or billet 19/20t’s available for a bolt on swap. Seems a few more options now some with GTX comp wheels so not sure what to go for but I’ll probbaly sell my 18t to try something different. I’m not after chasing numbers again just want the next one nice & rapid under 80/90.
How much was the Aura turbo? I’ve emailed them but no reply, he’s got a few different options now, when I was looking for mine there was only really the Insignia 18t or billet 19/20t’s available for a bolt on swap. Seems a few more options now some with GTX comp wheels so not sure what to go for but I’ll probbaly sell my 18t to try something different. I’m not after chasing numbers again just want the next one nice & rapid under 80/90.
For brakes if you can find some used Vec VXR 345mm carriers & calipers they’re a really nice upgrade over the 314’s. I paid a bit over the odds for mine but they came with everything incl ds2500 pads so stopped very well, really tight squeeze under my Aero wheels though.
A nice (cheapish) upgrade I did on the 314’s was HEL lines, RBF600 fluid and Yellow Stuff R pads with Mtec discs. They were decent enough but the 345’s are much better. Had to upgrade the brakes sharpish after the remap, almost put the car on its roof playing with a S3 the day I mapped it!!
A nice (cheapish) upgrade I did on the 314’s was HEL lines, RBF600 fluid and Yellow Stuff R pads with Mtec discs. They were decent enough but the 345’s are much better. Had to upgrade the brakes sharpish after the remap, almost put the car on its roof playing with a S3 the day I mapped it!!
Edited by griffin dai on Friday 13th December 23:15
griffin dai said:
Ah great!! I’m glad a few went for it, a couple of VXR owners bought them aswel, that was a fair bit of hassle getting it sorted, mine got sent back and refitted twice until it was done right, £650 for the kit was a great price though. Did you go for the 666 or 777 kit?
How much was the Aura turbo? I’ve emailed them but no reply, he’s got a few different options now, when I was looking for mine there was only really the Insignia 18t or billet 19/20t’s available for a bolt on swap. Seems a few more options now some with GTX comp wheels so not sure what to go for but I’ll probbaly sell my 18t to try something different. I’m not after chasing numbers again just want the next one nice & rapid under 80/90.
I ordered the 777 but they sent me the 666 and tried to fob me off and tell me I didn't need a 777 How much was the Aura turbo? I’ve emailed them but no reply, he’s got a few different options now, when I was looking for mine there was only really the Insignia 18t or billet 19/20t’s available for a bolt on swap. Seems a few more options now some with GTX comp wheels so not sure what to go for but I’ll probbaly sell my 18t to try something different. I’m not after chasing numbers again just want the next one nice & rapid under 80/90.
it got sorted in the end though. My neighbor fitted my clutch and had no issues with it!Yeah he's quite slow to reply, try messaging him on facebook. I got this from him:
The 430R upgrade starting from scratch will require the following base upgrades:
3" exhaust system
Intercooler
Induction + air filter
Injectors
Turbo
Spark plugs
If manual transmission then it will require an uprated clutch also and recirc valve. You can budget circa £4500-5000+ for the complete upgrade.
Let me know if you do sell the 18t, I might be interested!
Will do.
I’m pretty much sorted then I’ve all the parts waiting here to fit, I’ll probably go for the D088 IC & Rad package though, I’ve got a 3.5” Evo style IC here but it was a ball ache to fit and we couldn’t fit an upgraded rad in there.
Also added their upgrade actuator to the list.
Getting the Saab itch again!!!
I’m pretty much sorted then I’ve all the parts waiting here to fit, I’ll probably go for the D088 IC & Rad package though, I’ve got a 3.5” Evo style IC here but it was a ball ache to fit and we couldn’t fit an upgraded rad in there.
Also added their upgrade actuator to the list.
Getting the Saab itch again!!!
griffin dai said:
Will do.
I’m pretty much sorted then I’ve all the parts waiting here to fit, I’ll probably go for the D088 IC & Rad package though, I’ve got a 3.5” Evo style IC here but it was a ball ache to fit and we couldn’t fit an upgraded rad in there.
Also added their upgrade actuator to the list.
Getting the Saab itch again!!!
The D088 stuff looks really good quality but it's so expensive! Let me know if you're selling the intercooler also I’m pretty much sorted then I’ve all the parts waiting here to fit, I’ll probably go for the D088 IC & Rad package though, I’ve got a 3.5” Evo style IC here but it was a ball ache to fit and we couldn’t fit an upgraded rad in there.
Also added their upgrade actuator to the list.
Getting the Saab itch again!!!
griffin dai said:
For brakes if you can find some used Vec VXR 345mm carriers & calipers they’re a really nice upgrade over the 314’s. I paid a bit over the odds for mine but they came with everything incl ds2500 pads so stopped very well, really tight squeeze under my Aero wheels though.
A nice (cheapish) upgrade I did on the 314’s was HEL lines, RBF600 fluid and Yellow Stuff R pads with Mtec discs. They were decent enough but the 345’s are much better. Had to upgrade the brakes sharpish after the remap, almost put the car on its roof playing with a S3 the day I mapped it!!
I'll probably stick with the standard discs/calipers for now, but I might put some decent pads and braided lines in it. Did the brakes in yours feel spongy out of interest, before they were upgraded?A nice (cheapish) upgrade I did on the 314’s was HEL lines, RBF600 fluid and Yellow Stuff R pads with Mtec discs. They were decent enough but the 345’s are much better. Had to upgrade the brakes sharpish after the remap, almost put the car on its roof playing with a S3 the day I mapped it!!
Edited by griffin dai on Friday 13th December 23:15
KelvinatorNZ said:
Hey cool, another TVR owner with a Saab 9-3 2.8t. They're very nice cars, and deceptive in the way they just gain speed with no fuss. Mines an auto combiwagon.
Cool I'll try and find your threads if you have any on here? I'd have gone for the wagon as they are much cheaper for some reason, but there weren't any nice ones for sale at the time. I think the two cars make a nice combination, they're very different.Gassing Station | Readers' Cars | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff