Two problems related to gas recirculation valve (egr valve) have been reported for the 2001 SAAB 9-3. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 SAAB 9-3 based on all problems reported for the 2001 9-3.
While driving on expressway, motor failed due to lack of oil circulation brought on by plugging of oil pump intake screen from degradation of oil, due to design of SAAB 9/3 that cooks oil in turbocharger and catalytic converter directly beneath oil pan. Contributing factors long oil change interval, (10,000 SAAB recommendation), vehicle had less than 7,000 miles since last oil change. Complete engine failure resulted. Vehicle disabled. I had it towed to a pep boys location and was informed that the engine lost 2 cylinders and needs to be completely replaced.
While driving on expressway, motor failed due to lack of oil circulation brought on by plugging of oil pump intake screen from degradation of oil, due to design of SAAB 9/3 that cooks oil in turbocharger and catalytic converter directly beneath oil pan. Contributing factors long oil change interval, (10,000 SAAB recommendation), vehicle had 8,000 miles since last oil change. Also -3*f temperature further impeded oil circulation. Complete engine failure resulted. Vehicle disabled. Engine shortblock was replaced at dealership.