One problem related to tire tread/belt has 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.
After blowing a tire by running over a pothole, I discovered that my pirelli tires were seriously worn much earlier than anyone should expect. My tires have roughly 12,000 miles on them and they are worn down to the wear tread indicators. After a brief conversation with my dealer I discovered that SAAB and pirelli are aware of the situation, but they have failed to launch a recall to fix the problem. Instead, they are replacing tires on an "as-discovered" basis. In other words, as SAAB owners discover they have a tire issue and actually report this to the dealer, the tires are then replaced. So, if a SAAB owner does not think to complain to the dealer, his/her tires will not be replaced at no charge. This to me is a severe safety hazard as no driver should expect tires to be worn to near baldness after only 12,000 miles. A blowout hazard seems to be quite possible, yet neither SAAB nor pirelli seem inclined to do anything about it until they're forced to replace the tires of only those who complain.
| Tire problems | |
| Tire Blowout problems | |
| Tire Sidewall problems | |
| Tire Tread/belt problems |