Two problems related to front suspension stabilizer bar have been reported for the 2003 SAAB 9-3. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 SAAB 9-3 based on all problems reported for the 2003 9-3.
The contact owns a 2003 SAAB 9-3. While driving approximately 40 mph she heard a loud grinding noise. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The technician stated that the sway bar failed because of the right front coil spring. The manufacturer took a report. The manufacturer wanted to offer $100. 00 towards the cost for repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileages were 83,000.
On 8/2/09, I was driving my vehicle when suddenly there was a loud bang. Car pulled to the extreme right with a strong odor of burning rubber. Luckily was able to gain control without hitting anyone and stopped the vehicle. It was quite obvious the front of the car was lower than the back. The smell of rubber was from the spring going into the front passenger tire. The vehicle was towed to a local garage where it was discovered the front passenger spring broke & ate into the front tire. It also pulled out the struts & broke the bracket/top as well. I was very satisfied with SAAB until this. Car is 6 years old, well maintained with only 56,700 miles. This incident has certainly made me apprehensive especially when I did research an found there has been a rash of broken front passenger springs reported, yet no recalls. Parts replaced: strut assembly, strut top, spring pair, bracket, stabilizer bar control link, pirelli tire.